When you’re renting and something goes wrong in your place, you just call the landlord (or maybe your dad) to get things fixed.
As a homeowner, you need to step up your game. Repairs are inevitable—but that’s not all. You’ll also need tools for seasonal maintenance and improvements.
If there’s a first time homeowner in your life, consider this your go-to gift list. If you are yourself a first timer, put these items on your shopping list (or housewarming gift registry) and you’ll be all set.
The basics
- Safety gear (gloves, ear plugs, safety glasses, face masks)
- 25-foot retractable tape measure
- Philips/flathead screwdriver
- Flashlight
- Medium-weight hammer with a rip claw
- Utility knife
- Hardware, such as nails, screws, bolts, drywall screws, and picture hangers
- Adjustable wrench (especially useful for plumbing projects)
- Plunger
- Needle nose, slip joint, channel lock, and wire cutter pliers
- Carpenter’s square
- Level
- Stud finder
- Power drill or impact driver and drill bit/set
- Handsaw
- Extension cord
- Wet dry vacuum (it works wonders for spills on white carpet)
- Hex keys/Allen wrenches
- Socket set
- Ladder
- Reciprocating saw (if you're more ambitious than most)
- And finally …. a good toolbox to keep it all organized
Outdoor-specific tools
If you're in a condo or townhome, you might be able to skip some of these tools. But if you have a yard of any size, use this list to get ready for all four seasons.
- 5-gallon buckets
- Hose with sprayer attachment
- Push broom
- Outdoor trash can with a lid
- Wheelbarrow
- Snow shovel
- Garden shovel
- Rake
- Lawnmower
- Trimmers
- PVC pipe cutter (for all your underground sprinkler system repairs)
Finishing touches
Even with a full set of tools, you still may need a great handyman (or your dad) on call for help and advice. I know I do!
We also recommend honing your search engine skills, as there are many how-to videos and articles out there on basic household repairs.
Good luck, and stay safe out there!