Slow internet connection

[DaveKForty7]

I recently moved and the first thing I noticed when I got all hooked up wmy internet is brutally slow. P2P downloads @ 2kb/s, web pages that take minutes to load, forget streaming audio. My brother says because I'm in a old building it might be a weak signal through the phone lines? How can I test for this? Any other suggestions on what the problem might be/how to fix it are appreciated.

PS- Just so no one asks, I'm waiting out on calling up my ISP as they are know for their long waits... I know, I know, but it was my only option for broad band.