With the holiday season quickly approaching, many of us find we need to make room for guests.

To be a great host, think like a guest. Whether you're expecting a houseful of relatives or one special friend, a few simple steps can help make your ordinary guestroom extraordinary. It seems obvious, but if you start by making sure everything is sparkling

clean and neat, you'll make a great first impression that will carry through the whole visit.

Guest space. Get creative when choosing the guest space. Even if you don’t have a spare bedroom, any extra room can temporarily house guests. Perhaps the kids can ‘campout’ in a family room or rec room while the guests are with you. If the pullout is located in a high traffic room or area, move it to a spot with more privacy – or even use an inexpensive screen as a room divider. If you entertain guests really often consider installing a Murphy bed.

Keys to the house. Give your guest a house key. If your house has any quirks, such as a balky toilet, a cranky neighbour or an alarm system, write your guest an explanatory note, so there won't be any embarrassing surprises.

Bedroom. Air out the bedroom and put fresh sheets on the bed. Add some extra pillows and blankets. Provide a robe and slippers. They're hard to pack but wonderfully cozy to lounge around in.

Beside the bed. Provide a good bedside lamp, an alarm clock and some bottled water. Books of short stories, local history, novels and a selection of new magazines can help ease a sleepless or jet-lagged night. If there's a television, supply a current program schedule. If there's a telephone, a local phone book is a nice touch. Also include a pad of paper and a pen.

Sitting area. A comfy chair and a warm throw will give guests a private retreat area during the day.

Closets and Bureaus. Set aside closet and drawer space for your guest to use.

Bathroom. If your guests will share your bathroom, set aside some space for them. Get some beautiful thick towels that you keep just for the guest room. So they last longer, keep guest towels and sheets separate from household linens. Little extras like a basket of bath products make visitors feel welcomed and pampered.

Use these few simple tips and tricks and you’ll keep your guests feeling comfortable, welcome and ready to enjoy all the celebrating!

This article has been courtesy of Sherri Moro, Sales Representative for RE/MAX Aboutowne Realty Corp., Brokerage. She can be reached at 905-338-9000.

Email: sherri@greathaltonhomes.com
Web site: www.greathaltonhomes.com