So glad your T is coming over. Just by her being there will help you to feel like its your place.

Deal with the smells by getting a decent cleaning product and washing the walls. Room by room, put your stamp on the place. Cooking food will change the smell. Air fresheners will change the smell. Burn oil. Use cinnamon sticks. Anything. What is you favourite smell kiya?

Drawer liners will also help. Use whatever you can to make this place yours.