You need fewer tools than the hardware aisle suggests. A compact set handles assembly, hanging, tightening and small repairs, which is the large majority of what a first year actually demands.
The core set
Start here and add only when a specific job requires it.
- Cordless drill and driver with a mixed bit set
- 25-foot measuring tape
- Level, either spirit or laser
- Stud finder for anything heavy going on a wall
- Screwdrivers in Phillips and flat, plus a precision set
- Slip-joint and needle-nose pliers
- Adjustable wrench
- Utility knife with spare blades
Working safely
Use a step ladder rated for your weight and the height you need, and set it on level ground with the spreaders locked. Wear eye protection when drilling or cutting. Before drilling into a wall, check for framing, and assume wiring and pipes may be present in the areas above outlets, switches and fixtures.
Storing it properly
Keep the set together in one place — a tool bag or a labelled bin beats a drawer that swallows things. Keep an outdoor-rated extension cord with it rather than borrowing the one behind the television.
Jobs these tools are not for
Do not use them for electrical panel work, gas appliances, roofing, structural changes, HVAC repairs or plumbing beyond a trap and a supply line. Those are regulated, often permit-required and genuinely hazardous. Some home projects require specialized training, permits, or a licensed professional. Request a Pro Match if you need help finding a participating local service provider.
Product suggestions
Products mentioned in this article
Informational suggestions only. We do not publish prices, ratings or reviews, and a product is never a substitute for professional work.
Essential tools
New Homeowner EssentialBasic homeowner tool kit
A general hand-tool set covering small repairs, furniture assembly and picture hanging.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Essential tools
New Homeowner EssentialCordless drill
A general-purpose drill and driver for mounting shelves, assembling furniture and light repairs.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Essential tools
New Homeowner EssentialMeasuring tape
A 25-foot tape for furniture planning, appliance openings and filter sizes.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Essential tools
New Homeowner EssentialStud finder
Locates framing behind drywall before mounting heavy items such as shelving or a television.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Essential tools
New Homeowner EssentialLevel
A spirit or laser level for hanging shelves, art and curtain rails squarely.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Essential tools
New Homeowner EssentialAdjustable wrench
Handles supply-line fittings, hose bibs and appliance connections within basic maintenance limits.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Essential tools
New Homeowner EssentialPliers
Slip-joint and needle-nose pliers for gripping, bending and pulling in tight spaces.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Essential tools
New Homeowner EssentialScrewdriver set
Phillips and flat drivers in several sizes, plus a precision set for electronics and fittings.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Essential tools
New Homeowner EssentialStep ladder
An indoor ladder for alarm batteries, light fittings and top-shelf storage. Check the stated duty rating and height.
Checklist item — no retailer link is available for this product yet.
Roofing, electrical, structural, HVAC and anything permit-required or involving gas or main water lines should be handled by a qualified professional — not as a do-it-yourself project. Request a Pro Match if you need help finding a participating local service provider.
Request a Pro MatchKeep reading
Some home projects require specialized training, permits, or a licensed professional. Request a Pro Match if you need help finding a participating local service provider.
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