cateyanne, Check out the "U-Sand" floor sander and "Waterlox" floor finish. I just sanded and refinished my "new" master bedroom floor (antique heart pine original to the house) and had great results with the U-Sand and Waterlox Original. The U-Sand uses four 6" random orbit disks and comes with its own vacuum system; there was some dust, but not much. It also gets right up to the edge of the floor -- you probably won't need to rent an edger. Yes, it's probably lighter than a "pro" machine and it'll take you longer to do the sanding, but as a first time DIYer I found that to be an asset. (I don't mind a little extra time if it means I'm less likely to damage the floor.) Waterlox is a penetrating finish that is very easy to apply and, since each coat "melts" into the previous coats, you don't have to sand between each coat. (Next time I'll probably screen before the final coat because in an old house dust particles seem to generate spontaneously.) I'm very happy with the product and final finish. I don't have any floor-specific pics online, but (provided I can do this correctly) here's a "before" finishing (mid-woodwork strip and refinish) pic: [IMG]http://i225.photobucket.com/albums/dd195/Synrgystyk/Bedroom%20Renovation/baseboard.jpg[/IMG] and an "after": [IMG]http://i225.photobucket.com/albums/dd195/Synrgystyk/Bedroom%20Renovation/P1020089.jpg[/IMG] The lower right corner of the "after" pic shows the same area of flooring as in the "before" pic. HTH Lorree

What you are thinking of is called a Buff n Coat. its exactly as you described, they lightly abrade the top lay of finish and then add a fresh coat of urethane. In order to determine if your floor is suitable for that in its current condition will require a professional to come out and examine the floor.

What kind of finish? If it's water based it's probably best to wait a week before using any water on the floor. The oil based finish would probably withstand water within a day or two.

The home has a great look. But before you look to remodel you need to look to the furnishings you will put into it. Many people buy a house, paint the walls redo the floors, change the kitchen, etc., then look to purchase furnishings. So think about that first. What do you have now that you will keep for the long term. And what do you plan to purchase new. Have a clear plan as to what these items are, keeping in mind colors, style, and patterns. Then look at floor color, rugs, lighting fixtures and furniture. The wrong order will ultimately make you frustrated.