8 Home Features Every Hostess (or Host) with the Mostest Needs

Shopping for a home can be exhausting–especially if you’re someone who loves to entertain. In order to fulfill all your entertaining duties means you have to have a home that can accommodate you. Here are 8 must-have features we think you should look for in a home. Aren’t in the market? No worries, some of these can be added if you’re up for a little remodel.

1. A welcoming entry. It’s easier to greet guests when there’s a spacious entryway to usher them into. Make sure there’s plenty of room to maneuver and a good amount of lighting. If possible, look for an entry area that has a covering over the door to keep visitors dry during inclement weather conditions.

2. A coat closet. While you can certainly take your guest’s coats to another room, a coat closet is much handier. If there’s a spacious entry but has no closet, simply hang some decorative hooks or purchase a coat tree.

3. An island in the kitchen. The kitchen is often called the “heart of the home” because that’s where family and/or guests typically hang out. If you have an island that includes room for some barstool seating, even better. Being able to pull up a chair while is a great way for guests to feel included while you prep.

4. An open floor plan. Open floor plans are extremely popular these days. With room to flow from space to space, guests feel more encouraged to get up and mingle during a party. Be sure not to block high-traffic areas with furniture.

5. A formal dining room. While many homeowners prefer an open floor plan for larger parties, there are others who still enjoy hosting the occasional cozy sit-down dinner. Look for a dining area big enough to fit the table size of your choosing, as well as your hutch or buffet. A fireplace in the dining room can be nice, but if you live in a warmer climate, it may be more work than necessary.

6. A main-level bathroom. Having a powder room (half bath) on the main level can be very convenient, for dinner guests, as well as out-of-town visitors that will be sleeping in your home. If possible, look for a half bath that isn’t directly off the dining room.

7. A finished basement and/or game room. Finished basements are so versatile. Many times, homeowners will turn the basement into the main family room or rec room, which often include large electronics, a pool table, and even a wet bar. If your home doesn’t have a basement, but you have an additional room, consider turning that into a fun entertaining area.

8. An outdoor space. For the last few years, outdoor has been the new indoor. If you’re fortunate enough to have a deck, porch, or patio, make the most of it. Depending on your climate, you could decorate the space the same as you would a room in the house, with comfortable furniture, pillows, and accents like mirrors and rugs. There are some many things you can do, thanks to weather-friendly fabrics and decor. Other things you can add to your outdoor space are landscaping and a fire pit.