16 Tools Every Homeowner Should Own

You’ve purchased your first home… jumped through all the hoops and had lots of people tell you what to do and how to do it. They handed you the keys and left.
Now what? What they don’t tell you is that you will need a few tools to help with moving in and the future maintenance and repairs you will need to do to your home. Of course you will want to hire professionals to do the big stuff like plumbing repair or electrical work, etc. But there are those little things that you will need to do and CAN do like hanging pictures or other décor, or fixing those dings and bumps you made moving in.
Here is a handy list of some “get started” tools that are inexpensive but quite handy.

Tape Measure: A small but mighty tool. To make sure things actually fit where they’re supposed to fit. You’ll find yourself using this more than you might think.
​
Duct Tape
This tape is extremely strong and adaptable. Originally, it was widely used to make temporary repairs to many types of military equipment. Today, it’s one of the key items specified for home emergency kits because it is water-resistant and extremely sticky.
​
​Pliers: One of the handiest tools any new homeowner could have in a toolkit. You’ll want needle-nose, flat-nose, and cutting pliers. While it may seem like a lot, each of the pliers have their own use.

​Level: An essential for hanging anything from a shelf to a picture frame. Hanging things evenly is nearly impossible without a level. Save yourself hours, and never hear “a little more to the left” ever again. The bubble in the viewfinder must be exactly in the middle -- not merely close.

---

​Electric Drill/Screwdriver: Not essential, but a worthy investment you’ll use time and time again. An electric screwdriver or drill will make your life much easier as a new homeowner, and your arms will thank you.

​Safety Glasses / Goggles
For all tasks involving a hammer or a power tool, you should always wear safety glasses or goggles. They should also be worn while you mix chemicals.
​
Extension Cord: Because you think your cord can reach until you end up yanking it out every time. Save yourself a headache and get a long sturdy extension cord to make sure you (and your tools!) can reach anywhere you need to.
​
Broom/Dust Pan: While not thought of as a traditional “tool” you’ll definitely need these to clean up after any project.

Utility Knife: Perfect for slicing open all of those well-taped moving boxes. You might want a few of these, as they tend to get lost in the shuffle. Utility knives of varying sizes are useful for a plethora of home improvement projects.
​
Hammer: A hammer is essential for any homeowner — especially now that you are free to hang décor on your walls without worrying about losing your security deposit. Hammers are also useful for constructing new furniture and piecing together small projects.

Wood Glue: Wood glue can fix all manner of bumps and bruises that happen to walls and furniture during moving. Secure with clamps.
​
​Flashlight None of the tools in this list is of any use if you cannot visually inspect the situation. The problem, and solution, are apparent only with a good flashlight. A traditional two-battery flashlight is usually sufficient.
​
Screwdriver Set: A screwdriver set with interchangeable heads of various sizes in both Philips and flat-head with one handle will do you well.
​
​Nails and Screws: Keep a selection of nails and screws, from picturing hanging nails to wood screws. Having a few different types available will make projects much easier.

Stud Finder: If you want to hang anything heavier than poster, a stud finder is a must. A reasonable investment, you’ll only have to buy one once.
​
Plunger A clogged sink or toilet is one of the most inconvenient household problems that you will face. It is best to have two plungers -- one for the sink and one for the toilet.

​Step Ladder: Standing on a chair is a great way to ensure you break the chair, or worse…yourself. Keep a step ladder around for everyday tasks like changing light bulbs or replacing fire alarm batteries.

---

Don’t forget…
About some way to organize your tools so that they are accessible for future uses. Most will fit in a handy inexpensive 5-gallon bucket or plastic tool box. Get a couple of hooks to mount on the wall in the garage or utility closet for your broom, dust pan and extension cord.