In Chicago we had a "vintage" house. We did tear up the carpet and redo some floors ourselves (one thing I learned....do NOT sit in furniture stripper...it hurts.)

We converted the fireplaces from wood burning to gas. We felt cleaner, safer, and less work. We had a plumber do it.

We replaced all the windows (many non-standard...that was probably the biggest expense but what a difference!)

We also redid the kitchen and bathroom. I asked people I knew had used a contractor - especially on vintage houses, we visited different firms, we had a few estimates.

We really liked the guy we used. Had him back for the second (kitchen) project. But it always takes longer and costs more than you expect. The wiring was frighteningly not up to code, pipes, etc, etc, etc!

But, despite all that...I loved the whole experience...and the outcome!