Essential Tools for a New Homeowner
Buying a house is a bigger investment than most people realize, and not because of hidden costs or fees. It’s because of all the things you need to buy that you never knew you needed until you bought a house. Things like garbage cans. Step ladders. Brooms. A tool kit.
You’re probably going to need tools if you’re going to live in a house, even if you have no intention of remodeling or do-it-yourself projects, even if your only project house-wise is to dial the phone to call in a repairman. If you’ve never purchased tools before, how do you know what to buy? What follows is a list of tools you probably should have in your tool kit for all the things that come up that you never knew you needed tools for.
The right tools do make a difference. Spend the extra money for well-made tools and they will probably last as long or longer than you own your home.
Why do I need these tools?
Allen wrench – used to turn screws with hexagonal sockets
Cordless drill/screwdriver – good for hanging shelves, furniture kit assembly, driving screws, sheetrock
Hammer – driving and removing nails, picture hanging, building projects
Digging spade – gardening
Duct tape – temporary repairs
Extendable-handle rake – leaf raking and gardening
Glue gun – small fabric tear repair, furniture repair, picture matting, hobby projects
Ladder - 8 ft minimum - hanging curtains, cleaning out gutters, etc.
Level – mounting shelves and pictures
Locking long-nose pliers – vise-grips for gripping screws with head broken off
Lopper – trimming tree branches and bushes
Needle-nose pliers – for small-object gripping
Open-end wrench – appliance repair, plumbing, general nut and bolt turning
Portable tool box – emphasis on the word “portable”
Pruning shears – gardening
Saw – for cutting wood, a 16"-24" utility hand saw is all you need
Screwdrivers, Phillips and flathead – available in sets of four or six different drive configurations
Socket wrench with a ratchet handle – plumbing and car repairs
Spray lubricant – freeing up nuts and bolts, lubricating door hinges and metal window slides
Tape measure – purchase a 25'x1" in a durable case
Utility knife with a retractable blade – general cutting
Wire cutters – electrical work, trimming utility wire
Work flashlight
Over the years, I have added to our home tool kit, based on various home projects. How about you?
If you enjoyed this blog post, share it with a friend!
If you are considering purchasing a home, get in touch today.
MJ Olsen
A Realtor with Moving Experience & Expertise!