Getting some nice cushy non knobby tires will make a HUGE difference
If you want super cushy tires... Look into Schwalbe (<--brand) Big Apple's.
If you're going to repaint, give it some time to cure. Paint it, and let it sit - by itself - for a few days. Giving it some extra cure time will greatly increase it's strength. Damaging your paint the day after painting (from riding) will look terrible....