Need some home design help!

Cici • Mama and Etsy shop owner! My etsy shop is SerenadeBaby
I am moving this summer into my boyfriends dads house which he is renting us until it is paid off. It is very stuffy inside. We are so grateful but everything is outdated, there are broken light fixtures, there is polished wood paneling and wooden cabinets/furniture EVERYWHERE. Which is not our style at all. What are some tips to make areas feel more open and modern? Any paint suggestions? Color scheme suggestions? 😬 any little things that people don't think to add to homes?