10 Basic Tools New Homeowner Need

Buying your first home is an exciting rollercoaster. When I bought mine in 2016, my family and I were ready for more space. My wife had one condition: it needed a pool. I had one condition too—it needed a laundry chute. Somehow, we got both… though one of those has definitely cost a lot more money over the years.

Between the headaches of closing, moving, and learning all the unknowns that come with a new house, I quickly realized how important it was to have the right tools on hand. At the time, I didn’t fully appreciate how often I’d need them—but I was about to learn fast.

My background as a handyman is… spotty at best. I worked in construction—specifically framing—for about six months before joining the military. I also attended a vocational school for residential and commercial electrical work. That said, I wouldn’t call myself experienced in any of these areas. What I am is stubborn enough to attempt just about any job before jumping to the worst-case scenario: calling a professional.

Three days into owning our new home, disaster struck. One of our water heaters short-circuited due to a water leak, which set the insulation around it on fire. Luckily, the insulation was so damp that the fire put itself out. So… small win? YAY ME.

When it comes to plumbing, I’m basically a toddler. Thankfully, the previous homeowners became our neighbors, and the former owner didn’t hesitate to help. Together, we installed a brand-new water heater in the unfinished side of the basement—dirt floors, cold temperatures, water everywhere. It was wet, dirty, and uncomfortable, but he jumped right in and taught me what to do along the way. That experience alone boosted my confidence more than any YouTube video ever could.

That’s my hope for any new homeowner reading this—that my successes and failures can help you feel a little more prepared. The tools I go through below are absolute must-haves for a new homeowner’s kit. Calling a professional for simple, manageable jobs is often just throwing money down the drain.

I personally like DeWalt products as you will see below.

1. Claw Hammer

A quality hammer is essential for hanging pictures, assembling furniture, and basic repairs. Look for one with a comfortable grip and balanced weight. Don’t go out and buy the heaviest hammer you can find for simple house projects. You will become fatigued very fast.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4pMcZV4 (12OZ CURVED CLAW NAILING HAMMER)

2. Screwdriver Set (Flathead & Phillips)

From outlet covers to cabinet hardware, screws are everywhere. A full set ensures you always have the right size. This set will have a screwdriver for every type of screw out there.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4qsuzi3 (DeWalt - Toughseries Screwdriver Set 27Pc)

3. Tape Measure

Accurate measurements save time, money, and frustration — especially when buying furniture or planning projects. Tape measures are like car keys: you’ll set them down and immediately forget where you put them. I recommend owning at least a 35-foot tape measure. Pro tip: buy two — one for the toolbox and one for the junk drawer. You’ll thank yourself later.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3NqfiQ7 (DeWalt - ToughSeries™ 35 ft Tape Measure}

4. Adjustable Wrench

Perfect for plumbing fixes, tightening bolts, and appliance hookups. One adjustable wrench replaces multiple sizes.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4b4hwyh (Dewalt - 2 Pc. Dip Grip Adjustable Wrench)

5. Cordless Drill & Impact Driver Set

Arguably the most important homeowner tool. Great for drilling holes, assembling furniture, and installing shelves or blinds.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4qsR2LO (DeWalt - 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver, Power Tool Combo Kit , Includes 2 Batteries, Charger and Bag)

6. Level 1’, 2’, and Laser Level

A level helps ensure shelves, frames, TVs, and fixtures are straight — a must for professional-looking results. I recommend at least a 2-foot level for most household projects. It’s also smart to keep a small torpedo level on hand for frames and tight spaces, and for homeowners tackling bigger projects, a laser level is a great upgrade for larger layouts and installations.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4sGOuLH (DeWalt - Premium 24 inch I-Beam Level) / https://amzn.to/3ZhMOKV (DeWalt - TORPEDO EXTRUDED 9IN) / https://amzn.to/49qSacH (DeWalt - Line Laser, Self-Leveling, Cross Line, Red Beam)

7. Stud Finder

Avoid drilling into drywall blindly. A stud finder helps securely mount shelves, TVs, and heavy décor.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/45eRFA1 (DeWalt - Stud Finder 1 - 1/2 inch Stud)

8. Utility Knife

Great for opening boxes, trimming materials, and quick fixes. Always keep extra blades on hand.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4sLEgtk (DeWalt - Folding Retractable Utility Knife (2-pack))

9. Pliers Set

Need to grip, twist, or pull something tight? Pliers come in handy more often than you’d expect. This set will offer you a great start to your plier needs around the house.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/49FWL9F (IRWIN VISE-GRIP Pliers Set, 4-Piece)

10. Basic Tool Kit or Tool Bag

A starter tool kit or bag keeps everything organized and ready when you need it — especially during emergencies.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4jL354l - (DeWalt - Tool Backpack)

Final Thoughts

Owning a home doesn’t mean becoming a contractor overnight. With these 10 basic tools, you’ll be prepared for common repairs, simple upgrades, and everyday maintenance. Start with the essentials, add tools as needed, and enjoy the confidence that comes with being a prepared homeowner.

One final thought: power tools make home projects dramatically easier. If you’re ready to take the next step, a solid cordless tool set can save you time and effort on jobs you’ll do more often than you expect. This DeWalt 20V MAX 9-Piece Cordless Tool Combo includes tools you’ll reach for again and again when working around the house.

👉 Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/49YplVg