It’s the most wonderful time of the year. A time for friends and family to come together to celebrate the holidays. Many of you will be hosting guests in your homes over the next couple of weeks and while you are surely delighted to spend time with your loved ones, it can be a stressful time as well. If you are opening your doors to family members or friends this Christmas, here are some ideas for prepping your home so that you’ll be ready to welcome them with open arms.
TIDY UP THE HOUSE
Use this as motivation to thoroughly clean your house. In addition to your normal cleaning, get rid of clutter, make small house repairs, and do a deep cleaning of bathrooms.
STOCK UP ON FOOD AND DRINKS
Make sure you have different types of beverages and snacks that your guests enjoy. It’s nice for them to be able to easily grab a quick snack whenever they want.
HAVE ACTIVITIES PLANNED FOR YOUR GUESTS
Depending on how long they are staying, you may want to plan some special events or activities for your guests. Whether it’s a shopping excursion, a day at a museum, a holiday concert or just a nice dinner out, your visitors will appreciate your thoughtfulness in keeping them entertained. Click here for a list of fun events happening in the New River Valley area this holiday season: Holiday Events
BE MINDFUL OF LITTLE ONES
If your guests include children, be sure to plan for them as well. If you don’t have children, you may want to pick up a game or some arts and crafts to have around for them. Find out their food preferences prior to their arrival so that you are prepared to accommodate them at meals.
PROVIDE COMFORTABLE SLEEPING SPACES
Be sure to have nice, clean sheets, pillows, and extra blankets. If you have a guest bedroom that has not been used in a while, strip the bed and wash the bed linens so that they are fresh for your guests. Prepping a Room for Holiday Guests
PROVIDE TOILETRIES
The guest bathroom should have hand soap/body wash, shampoo, conditioner and lotion available for guests. Place some fresh, clean towels and washcloths in a basket or on a shelf for their use. Make sure there is enough toilet paper available so that guests will not run out and have to ask for some.
PROVIDE INSTRUCTIONS FOR ELECTRONICS
If the guest room has a television, leave written instructions for how to use the remote.
HAVE A SPARE KEY MADE
If you will be working while your guests are staying in your home, provide them with a key so that they can come and go as they please while you are at work.
By following these tips and prepping your home ahead of time, you will be able to offer a warm welcome to your guests and enjoy the time you have with them!
If you’re thinking about selling or buying a home in the New River Valley area, contact professional, experienced Realtor Desi Sowers and let her assist you with all your real estate needs. Give her a call today at 540-320-1328!