Best Practices for Long-Term House Guests: A Comprehensive Guide
When hosting a house guest for an extended period, from 1-3 months, it's important to think about the practicalities and social norms that come into play. This article will provide a detailed guide for both the host and the guest to ensure a pleasant and successful stay.
Short-Term Renting Guide for Long-Term Guests
Long-term house guests have specific needs beyond a typical visitor. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind for a mutually beneficial and comfortable stay:
1. Buy Your Own Necessities
Food and Personal Items: Long-term guests should be expected to purchase their own groceries and personal items such as toiletries, detergents, and other household necessities. This not only ensures your house is not nickel-and-dimed but also encourages self-sufficiency.
Rent: Long-term stays often involve some form of rent or contributing towards household expenses. It’s not practical to live in someone’s home for an extended period without paying for some of the costs, no matter how much you may enjoy their company.
2. Adhere to House Rules and Boundaries
To maintain a comfortable living situation, it's crucial to establish clear house rules:
Personal Space: Assign a designated room for the guest. This prevents overcrowding and maintains privacy. Everyone should respect each other's personal space.
Self-Cleaning: The guest should clean up after themselves. This could include organizing their room, disposing of trash, and cleaning up after themselves in the bathroom. Housekeeping should be handled by the guest or the host, depending on the arrangement.
Regular Cleanup: Establish a cleaning schedule. For example, garbage should be taken out regularly, and the bathroom should be cleaned at least once a day.
3. Explore Local Opportunities
Encourage the guest to find part-time or freelance work to make ends meet. This could also help them become more integrated into the local community and provide them with a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
4. Mind the Social Contract
Communication is key. Discuss expectations early on. Here are some areas to consider:
Alcohol: If sharing alcohol, it's a good idea for each party to contribute equally. Consider having an ice chest or a similar means of storing alcohol securely.
Dining: Invite your guest to dinner or dinner parties to foster a sense of community. Explore local cuisines together to make the stay more enjoyable.
Drinking and Talking: Establish a comfortable environment for casual conversations and possibly some social gatherings, ensuring that no one feels left out.
Personal Experience: A Long-Term Stay During Pandemic
During the pandemic in March 2020, my daughter and her husband were initially planning a short visit in our guest bedroom for just a week. However, with the sudden closure of borders, they unexpectedly ended up staying for 8 months. Despite being a house full of people, we managed to coexist without major issues due to our clear communication and respect for each other's personal space. We had our laundry facilities available, which came in handy as they were not fully prepared for such a long stay.
Conclusion
Hosting a long-term guest can be rewarding, but it also requires careful planning and mutual understanding. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that both you and your guest have a positive and productive experience. Remember, communication, respecting each other's boundaries, and finding ways to contribute can turn a potentially challenging situation into a memorable and mutually beneficial experience.