Are you not sure that you can look at that old dark woodwork one more day? Waiting until you can afford to replace it all? Lighten it up by paiting it white or cream now for very little cost. Here is a great blog with step by step directions. The only thing I would add is to use a paintable caulk to fill gaps before painting. http://www.livelovediy.com/2012/04/how-to-paint-trim.html
Photo courtesy of LiveLoveDIY