In addition to the various housing programs described on this site, the link below will take you to the Mid American Regional Council web site which has published an idea book for remodeling and updating Post World War II Housing. This book is full of great ideas to incorporate modern amenities into older houses. In addition, this book has information on architectural house styles, basic floor plans, financing information and other resources which might be helpful!

http://www.marc.org/firstsuburbs/planbook.htm