The other problem is some remnant knob and tube wiring that supplies one outlet in the dining room and the overhead wires to the unattached garage.  

I figure the landlord is responsible for common areas external to the apartment (hallways, entryway etc) but common areas within the apartment (living room, dining room, kitchen,bath) should be shared responsibilty of tenants.

I've been looking at several row homes lately where the living room leads to a 12x13 dining room which leads to a small 8x8 or so kitchen. 

I have a larger kitchen that could also be considered with a living space (Kitchen/dining area). 

You may be able to upgrade out of that delay.I have not found a more elegant solution yet.Good luck

We moved the kitchen to the dining room, opened up the wall and created a master suite from where the old kitchen stood. 

@John Semanchuk @Jay HinrichsYea that does look pretty elegant.

The only thing they did that would have been maintenance was paint the bedrooms and living/dining room. 

Another Fireplace in the Formal Living Room and Yet another in the Formal Dining Room.

I have two massive leaks that have now brought sheetrock down in my living room and dining room.