What’s in Your Toolbox? Essential Items for Your New Home
Essential Tools Every New Homeowner Should Have
Now that you’re a homeowner (or about to be one), you’ll need to lay in some important items that you may not have considered when you either lived in an apartment, with roommates, or with your family. There are so many things you used to just reach for, never thinking about where they came from or how they got there. In a new series of blog posts, we’re going to talk about some of the everyday things you use all the time, but won’t be provided when you purchase a new home.
You’ll need to put aside some additional cash around closing time — not just to get through the process itself, but also to outfit your new place. If you’re still shopping for a home, check out our available floor plans and browse our current new home communities to find the perfect match.
First Up: Tools!
They’re not glamorous or exciting for many people (contractors and builders excepted, of course), but they’re absolutely essential. Now that your landlord isn’t on call for your maintenance needs — or your dad’s garage is miles away — you’ll need to create your own stash of “fix-it” equipment. Here’s what every home needs in its toolbox:
- Hammer
- Nails in several sizes
- Screwdrivers (both Phillips and flathead)
- Screws in several sizes
- Level
- Cordless drill
- Tape measure
- Stud finder
- Saw
- Adjustable wrench
- Pliers (regular and needle nose)
- Utility knife
- Putty knife
- Wire stripper
- Hex key (Allen key) set
- Combination square
- Extension cords
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Awl
- Caulking gun
- Duct tape
- Super glue
- WD-40
- Sandpaper
- Washers
- Ladder
- Safety glasses
Many new homeowners haven’t had the opportunity to use tools or try DIY projects. If you’re one of those people, don’t worry — there are plenty of ways to learn.
Your Local Hardware Store
Many towns have stores that offer project classes, seminars, or one-on-one guidance for new homeowners. Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Ace Hardware all offer these resources — and they’re invaluable if you’re settling into one of our
