It collects oils and stains like a sponge. 

No oil changes, no belts, etc.

There have been oil shortages and oversupply wars that have caused volatility.

Have you tried the peppermint oil, Dave?

The oil industry is big booming.

If the smell is really bad and there's a chance of pet urine or other really strong odors, when you paint consider using a shellac (oil-based) primer first, at least on the floors (before re-carpeting) and up part of the walls.We bought our current home from someone who let their cats "go" wherever they wanted (it was nasty).  

I have rentals in NH with all three:  oil, natural gas, and propane. 

Any oil producing area will certainly notice the difference.

If you are going to reuse the rail, I would burn off all the old paint and re-sand it real good before you put it back on, then a new oil based primer and 2 finish coats.

Replacing the old windows with New triple pane windows, converting the oil heat system to electric. adding some mini-splits with heat/Ac capability.