
If you've just become a homeowner for the first time, you're probably feeling thrilled, exhilarated, and probably more than a little exhausted. If so, you're far from alone.
Our real estate agents understand the challenges of homeownership, and once you've made it through the homebuying process, it's time to start thinking about the ongoing responsibilities of owning and maintaining your home. These are the tools you'll need now that your home's maintenance is your responsibility.
- Adjustable Crescent Wrench
No need to invest in a whole set of wrenches in every size. Just get a couple of adjustable crescent wrenches, so you can match the jaws to nuts and bolts of any size. Go for a self-ratcheting wrench so you don't have to remove it from the bolt over and over again to tighten it.
- Level
Want to make sure all your pictures, mirrors, shelves and artwork are hung straight? Get a level to take the guesswork out of it. Modern laser levels are great for all purposes, with some models able to create straight horizontal and vertical lines simultaneously.
- Drill (and Drill Bits)
A good battery-powered multipurpose drill and driver will help get you through all kinds of household repairs and renovations. Be prepared for whatever job comes your way with a pack of assorted driver bits including Phillips-head, slotted, and square bits in different sizes.
- Claw Hammer
Sometimes you need to hammer some nails, and sometimes you need to pull them back out. A claw hammer does both. Get a sturdy hammer made out of a good material that will absorb the impact of each blow.
- Reciprocating Saw
There are all kinds of saws for all different uses, but for most basic DIY projects, a reciprocating saw (also known as a Sawzall) is the go-to for many homeowners. It essentially performs the function of a hand saw, but the motor pushes and pulls the blade for you, so you don't have to do it manually.
- Allen Wrench Set
Also known as hex keys, Allen wrenches are those small, L-shaped wrenches for screws and bolts with hexagonal sockets. Build-it-yourself furniture often comes with an Allen wrench sized for that piece of furniture's specific bolts, but it's always best to have a full set in all sizes.
- Ladder
It's only a matter of time before you have to change a light bulb, clean out your gutters, or inspect your roof. A basic 6-foot ladder will do for most day-to-day projects, and won't cost you that much. But you might want to spring for a 12-foot extension ladder if you plan on doing roof or gutter work.
- Hardware
You'll definitely appreciate the convenience of having assorted hardware handy, like nails, screws, nuts, bolts, washers in various sizes. Invest in an organizer with lots of drawers so you can easily find what you're looking for each time.
- Safety Equipment
You never know what you might get into when you start DIY-ing in your new home, so it's smart to play it safe. Have safety goggles, work gloves, chemical-safe gloves, and dust masks handy just in case you ever need them.
- Tool Bag
Once you start accumulating tools, you may realize how important it is to stay organized. A tool bag is great to have, offering a convenient way to store all your tools, and with a lot more flexibility than an old-school toolbox.
Contact us today to learn more about how our team can help with the process of becoming a homeowner. We're proud to say that we've helped countless families find the perfect South Bend homes for sale.