Would you delay house renovations for this?

[FrostyChristmas]

I got a random call from an overseas relative today, to inform me that were visiting the UK, and planning to spend NYE with us! We have not seen them in 5+yrs, due to covid/distance but also hear from them rarely. We get on well when we do see each other, but I was rather surprised. We have stayed at theirs before, years ago, so would reciprocate if I could. I just feel imposed upon.

We visited MIL today, who said she had been aware of the relatives plans for months, and planned to come to ours for not just New Years, but Christmas also!!! WFT! 😫I said we were planning a quiet NYE and didn't know what we'd be doing for Christmas yet! Both true!

We are renovating and living in a caravan! House is currently uninhabitable. The house 'might' be livable by Christmas, but will likely have bare minimum and no guest room furniture.

Would I be unreasonable to not rush completion of some rooms nor rush out to buy additional guest furniture- right before Christmas?

Do not change your renovation plans
they can book a travel lodge etc
they've not event had the courtesy to discuss with you

They don’t sound close to you so I would have no issue in hosting meals etc but they can stay elsewhere
people can be very presumptive

Welcome them but make it clear they won’t be staying with you!!!

Good god no. In these circumstances I would be tempted to start renovations specifically to put them off.

How rude of them, and how ridiculous of your DM!

This, obviously.

They are rude so I think you’re lucky to have a cast iron excuse to say no!

Call them tomorrow - you've spoken with the builders and the house will still be uninhabitable by Christmas, but you'd love to see them next year. They probably weren't aware you're doing work.

Stick to your guns - they have planned their NYE how they wanted (with no consultation with you): plan yours how you want. What a nightmare to have this thrust on you on top of renovations! (I cannot imagine inviting myself to someone's house without them inviting me!)

Just say, errm .. we are living in a caravan, no inhabitable house. Not that hard is it? Does your MIL not know your house can't host guests and you are living in a caravan. Seems strange she just didn't mention it to them when it came up in conversation

So your mother knows you're living in a caravan and instead of piping up, just keeps quiet?! Wow

Nope, they need to be staying elsewhere, like your mums!

Well its just a flat 'no' isn't it? Your house is uninhabitable and you won't be in a position to have guests at all over Christmas or New Year. It's very simple and a good excuse to say no. Cheeky feckers.