I should quantify my post by saying that we are trying to do a no-cost remodel. Of course, if I paint, that will add a nominal cost that I can afford (and sounds like I should just go for it and do!) but I don't have any $ for furniture, new floors, etc. So in my limited case, we are talking moving some new storage shelves in from another room and rearranging quite a bit of shelving that is attached to the walls. So thanks for helping me make up my mind - I WILL paint! ;D
And I will also begin squirreling away any leftover grocery money to pay for flooring and future remodels of a grander nature!