With great homeownership, comes great responsibility.  Are you ready for the leaky faucet at 10 p.m., the “some assembly required” furniture marathon, or the weekend DIY project that’s more ambitious than you thought?

Having the right tools in your toolbox can turn you from flustered to fix-it hero in minutes.

We decided to craft a curated list of essential tools for every new homeowner. With these tools in your arsenal, you’ll save money on service calls, and keep your home in great shape from day one.


Cordless drill

A cordless drill is the MVP of any homeowner’s toolkit. From assembling furniture and hanging shelves to tackling light repairs, it’s a powerhouse that saves time, energy, and your wrists.

Without a cord holding you back, you can work anywhere; up a ladder, in the backyard, or in those awkward corners. Pair it with a set of quality drill bits, and you’ll be ready for just about any DIY or “fix-it” mission that comes your way.

Stud finder

When it comes to hanging shelves, TVs, or artwork, guessing where the studs are is a risky game. Miss, and you could end up with wobbly shelves or a wall that needs patching. A stud finder takes out the guesswork, helping you locate the solid wood behind your drywall so your projects are safe, secure, and built to last.

Screwdriver Set

From tightening loose cabinet handles to opening battery compartments, a good screwdriver set is the unsung hero of home maintenance. Having a variety of flathead and Phillips sizes on hand means you’ll always have the right tool for the job (raise your hand if you’ve tried using a butter knife to unscrew something). A quality set will save you time, protect your hardware, and make quick fixes a breeze.

Pro Tip: Choose a set with magnetic tips to reduce the chances of dropping screws while you’re working.

Tape measure & laser combo

Whether you’re figuring out if that new couch will fit or making sure your gallery wall is perfectly spaced, accurate measurements are non-negotiable. A tape measure and laser combo gives you the best of both worlds. It’s faster, more accurate, and saves you from the “eyeballing it” regret later.

Level

Crooked shelves, lopsided frames, and uneven tiles? Nothing throws off a room’s look faster than being a few degrees off. A level ensures your projects are perfectly straight and aligned, whether you’re hanging artwork or installing a new backsplash. This simple tool saves you from the dreaded, “Wait… is that crooked?” moment.

Step ladder

Sometimes the perfect spot for that shelf, curtain rod, or ceiling light is just out of reach. A sturdy step ladder gives you the boost you need to work safely and comfortably. Look for one that’s lightweight, foldable, and has non-slip steps so it’s easy to store and even easier to use.

Pro Tip: Choose one with a built-in tool tray to keep screws and tools within reach.

Adjustable wrenches

Leaky faucet? Loose bolt? An adjustable wrench is your go-to tool for gripping and turning nuts, bolts, and fittings of all sizes. Keep one in your toolkit and you’ll be ready for plumbing repairs, bike tune-ups, and all those, “Honey, can you tighten this?” moments.

Hammer & mallet set

No toolkit is complete without a hammer. It’s the hero for driving nails, prying boards, and quick household fixes. But a rubber mallet earns its place too, delivering firm taps without denting or scratching surfaces. Together, they give you the perfect balance of force and finesse, whether you’re hanging art, assembling furniture, or tackling your next DIY build.

Pliers

A good set of pliers- think needle-nose, slip-joint, and cutting pliers- handles everything from pulling stubborn nails to fixing wiring. They give you precision when you need control and strength when you need leverage, making them a must-have for both quick fixes and bigger repair jobs.

Toolbox or organizer

All the tools in the world won’t help if you can’t find them when you need them. A sturdy toolbox keeps your gear organized, protected, and ready for action. Look for one with adjustable compartments, a comfortable handle, and durable construction so it can grow with your collection and stand up to years of projects.


Owning these tools means you can tackle everyday tasks and small fixes without breaking a sweat (or the bank!), keeping your home in great shape from the start. As you settle in, a well-stocked toolbox isn’t just a smart buy, it’s your ticket to comfort, confidence, and peace of mind as a homeowner.


SOURCE AND FOR MORE INFORMATION: 10 Must-Have Tools Every Homeowner Should Own