(RE/MAX Blog)- Looking for ways to give back this holiday season? Here are a few ideas.

1. Go for wags and wiggles

Local animal shelters always need an extra hand, whether it's for walking dogs, socializing cats or the critical daily chores required to save homeless pets.

2. Yes you can

Clear your cabinets of canned food and other non-perishable items – or fill a shopping cart at the store with items to donate – and drop them off at your local food bank.

3. Schmooze with seniors

Volunteer at a local senior center and spend time with an older person who might be feeling especially lonely around the holidays.

4. Give fun

The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation collects gifts for kids from needy families. Donation boxes can often be found at local businesses. You can also consider organizing your own collection. Learn more at www.toysfortots.org.

5. Swing a hammer

Santa's not the only one on the rooftops this time of year. The national nonprofit Habitat for Humanity always has projects going. See where you can help in your neighborhood at www.habitat.org.

6. Help the homeless

From helping to serve a holiday meal at a shelter to assisting with job training, check in with the National Coalition for the Homeless to find out how you can help.

(RE/MAX Blog)- The holidays are coming – is your home ready for overnight guests? Follow these suggestions to create the perfect guest room for friends and family.

1. Offer reading material

A pile of recent magazines or a shelf of assorted books offers guests a way to wind down before bed.

2. Add flowers

A simple flower arrangement adds class and color to any room.

3. Provide seating

Make sure there's somewhere cozy for guests to sit if they need some alone time during holiday chaos.

4. Make wi-fi connection easy

Leave a piece of paper with your internet server's name and password on the dresser so guests can easily access your wireless connection.

5. Did they forget something?

Fill a basket with sample-sized containers of essentials, like toothpaste, mouthwash and shampoo.

6. Add a luggage stand

Put out a folding luggage stand where guests can prop their suitcases to avoid having to squat all the way down to the floor every time they need something.

7. Make the closet functional

Be sure to stock the closet with empty hangers for guest's clothes.

8. Add charm with decorations

Create a welcoming, calm space for guests. Err on the side of generic. Remember, not everyone wants to sleep surrounded by Star Wars-themed decorations or your horror movie poster collection.

9. A picture perfect welcome

Place a framed photo of you and your guest on the nightstand.

Is your "guest room" your living room sofa? Maybe it's time to look for a larger space. Start the search for your new home with RE/MAX Realty Group/100 today.