Dudette, this is like asking fifth graders for investment advice!

For my nickel, I'd take pics of all the areas in question and make a day of visiting the good folks at Depot, Lowe's, Ace, etc. for ideas and perceptions, especially about the fan output.

They have all the little books that advise on materials in certain conditions along with the ever-important don'ts of the their applications.

Your house is old enough, are we also talking a full rewire? Is the plumbing in proper order? Those are two things that can ruin the most perfect bathroom if they're not perfect themselves.

Good luck with this, please don't overdo it on your poor body, and definitely call me BEFORE you pull the trigger on yourself!