Top 10 tools for First-Time Homeowners
Buying your first home is exciting. Then reality sets in. Things break, doors do not close properly, faucets drip, and that picture you planned to hang still leans against the wall. Having the right tools on hand makes the difference between calling someone for every small repair and being able to handle it yourself.
Before we dive in, let’s talk safety. Gloves and safety glasses are not optional. One trip to the ER costs more than a lifetime supply of protective gear. Add in lost work and frustration, and you will see why I keep gloves and glasses nearby every day.
The other big decision is which battery platform you want to commit to. The most common choices are Yellow (DeWalt), Red (Milwaukee), Blue (Makita), and Green (Ryobi). Once you start buying tools, juggling multiple chargers and battery platforms can get inconvenient, and switching later can be costly. Each company has different levels of tools, so you can start small and upgrade without having to switch camps. If possible, get your hands on them in a store. How they feel in your grip and the build quality will matter more than brand marketing.
That said, the big four are not the only game in town. Rigid has its own following (maybe call it Team Orange), and there are plenty of respected names like Bosch, Metabo, Festool, Craftsman, and Harbor Freight’s lines that make great tools. I even own a few myself outside of my main drill platform. Which camp are you in, and do you stick with one brand or mix across several?
In my experience, I have had good luck with DeWalt tools not letting me down. I have broken a few over the years, but more accidents than faulty. I take good care of all my tools, keeping them clean and performing any required maintenance. Milwaukee has a strong following among professional tradespeople and is well regarded for its brushless tools and innovation. Makita tools are durable and consistent, especially for cordless platforms, while Ryobi offers reliable entry-level tools at an accessible price point for homeowners starting out. Each brand has its strengths, and the best choice depends on how you plan to use the tools and which feel best in your hands.
I started with a Ryobi set from a Father’s Day sale. It worked fine for many years. As I started enjoying the work more, I switched to DeWalt. Honestly, it was mostly a color preference. I have watched countless comparison videos from Project Farm and ToolGuyd. Their independent tests help you understand what works in real life versus marketing claims.
1. Cordless Drill and Bit Set
If you buy only one power tool, make it a cordless drill. Hanging shelves, assembling furniture, or drilling pilot holes becomes easy. The DeWalt 20V Atomic is a solid choice for most homeowners. Watch for sales at Lowe’s, Home Depot, or Amazon. Milwaukee’s 18V Lithium-Ion Brushless is another excellent platform if you are willing to spend more.
Bit sets are a great companion to your drill. They are inexpensive, make fun “self” gifts, and cover almost every fastener you’ll encounter.
Dewalt Atomic 20v kit great entry tool
Milwaukee M18 kit getting a little more money invested
I use mine professionally and daily and opted for:
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless
2. Tape Measure
A reliable 25-foot tape measure will cover most household projects. Consistency is key. I have several tape measures, and some measure slightly differently because of how the hooks are attached. Project Farm has a detailed review of major brands. I stick with my DeWalt 25-foot tape, which has been accurate and dependable.
3. Screwdriver Set
Screwdrivers are simple but essential. A starter set like Craftsman Extreme Grip Diamond Tip handles most household tasks. If you plan to work with electrical components, insulated Klein screwdrivers are safer and worth the investment. (be careful with any electrical repairs)
Craftsman screwdrivers
Klein Insulated
4. Socket Set
A basic socket set is useful for tightening bolts, assembling furniture, or small car repairs. GearWrench entry-level kits are solid. Craftsman and Kobalt are also reliable options. You can follow the “buy cheap first, upgrade if needed” approach, or buy higher quality upfront. Either way, having sockets will save you time and frustration.
GEARWRENCH 185 Piece Mechanics Hand Tool Set
5. Pliers
Pliers are indispensable. Needle-nose, slip-joint, or channel-lock varieties all get used regularly. Estate sales can yield surprisingly high-quality older tools. New options from GearWrench, Craftsman, Crescent, Klein, and premium Knipex models are excellent for both reliability and grip.
Craftsman base set
Knipex core set
6. Adjustable Wrench
Adjustable wrenches are convenient, even if they sometimes slip. Crescent makes the original and remains reliable. Test in hand to make sure the jaws feel tight. Estate and garage finds can be surprisingly good.
Crescent Wrench the original (3 sizes is probably too much)
7. Hammer
One hammer will do most jobs. A 16–20 oz flat-face hammer is ideal. I prefer Estwing hammers. Their solid one-piece design doubles as a light pry bar and lasts for years. This link is for a straight claw which I prefer to a large arc, but just a preference.
ESTWING Hammer - 20 oz Straight Rip Claw with Smooth Face
8. Level
A 24-inch level is sufficient for most home projects. My first Stanley level still works perfectly. Stabila offers professional-grade options, and laser levels are available if you want higher precision.
9. Utility Knife
A utility knife is handy for opening boxes, scoring drywall, trimming carpet, and general work. I lose or break them occasionally, so I rotate through models. Buy bulk carbide blades to save money and frustration. DeWalt blades are top-tier, while Hyper Tough is a good budget option. Project Farm has excellent comparisons.
Dewalt Push & Flip Folding Utility Knife
10. Quick Clamps
Clamps are like extra hands. Irwin Quick-Grip 12-inch clamps are a strong starting point. They hold materials steady for gluing, drilling, or sawing. You can expand your collection over time.
IRWIN QUICK-GRIP 12” One-Handed Mini Bar Clamp 2 Pack
Bonus Tool: Stud Finder
If you plan to hang anything heavy on walls, a stud finder is a smart investment. Magnetic models detect nails or screws, while electronic ones give a more precise reading and can detect wires. I really like the Zircon MultiScanner A250. It is reliable, accurate, and works well for most household projects. One note is that it uses batteries relatively quickly, so keep spares on hand. I keep a basic electronic model like this on hand, and it has saved me a lot of patchwork.
Buying Tips for Homeowners
Where to buy: Amazon, Home Depot, Lowe’s, Harbor Freight, or estate sales.
Best times to buy: Father’s Day, Black Friday, and holiday sales.
Warranties: Check lifetime or extended warranties, especially for hand tools.
Gloves and safety glasses are inexpensive compared to potential medical bills. Keep them nearby and use them every time you work. Building your first homeowner tool kit does not need to happen overnight. Start with these essentials and expand as your projects grow. Many tools last for decades and are an investment in your home. Future posts will cover power tools, outdoor tools, and organization tips for a growing collection.
Resource Links
Dewalt Carbide Blades expensive, but nice
