Save Money and DIY: Top 7 Tools for First-Time Homeowners
I want to congratulate you on becoming a homeowner. This is the beginning of many firsts you will encounter throughout your home ownership. Problems of all ranges will present themselves and if you’re anything like me you will want to fix them yourself. This could be replacing a showerhead, tightening loose hardware like cabinet knobs, replacing a ceiling fan, or even assembling new newly purchased furniture.
I’m John, and I have been a homeowner since 1996. I complete my DIY projects with tools that I have either inherited from my dad or have purchased. I have only recently begun documenting my journey 9 years ago when I formed my UDoIt YouTube channel. Creating this content will help to inspire you to do more and ultimately save money.
My tool selection for the first-time homeowner was created based on what I believe are the essentials to get you started on saving money. This will help you save money on home repairs and fix-it-yourself projects. Especially with rising costs of materials and labor, now is more important than ever to get started in building your collection.
Down to the Basics – Hand Tools
If you had to guess what the basic toolset might include, you’d be right if you said a hammer, a tape measure, pliers, wrenches, a socket set, or even screwdrivers. Even if they aren’t exactly right, having enough tools for the job can greatly improve your experience.
DeWALT Mechanics Tool Set
Don’t be intimidated by this set. It will come in handy for years to come. Just don’t lose your 10mm socket. This set features both sockets and deep sockets in 1/4 inch and 3/8 inch as well as a set of wrenches, fallen keys, and screwdriver bits.
This is perfect for furniture assembly, fixing a garage door or even repairing your lawn mower.
- Durable case with metal latches provides protection and storage for your DEWALT mechanic tool set
- The mechanics tool set includes 72 tooth count ratchets which allow for a 5 degree arc swing for maneuverability in restricted areas
- Full polish chrome for corrosion resistance
Amazon.com Price last update on 2024-12-20 - Details
Craftsman Screwdriver Set
I’ve been a lifelong fan of the Craftsman tool brand. My dad bought Craftsman tools and I inherited many of them. This screwdriver set by Craftsman is my favorite. The handles are super easy to grip and work well. And, I love the red and black pattern.
- IMPROVED DURABILITY and FIT: Black Oxide Tip provides improved durability and grip without compromising tip fitment
- QUICK ROTATION CONTROL: Speed and Precision Tactile Zones provide quick rotation control for efficient run down and precision tasks
- ADDED GRIP TEXTURE: Torque Zone provides added grip texture and geometry for heavy torque applications
Amazon.com Price last update on 2024-12-20 - Details
Craftsman Hammer, Tape Measure, and Level Set
Continuing with the Craftsman product line, here is a set that covers the basics. These are a must-have for the simplest form of DIY, including hanging pictures, measuring curtains, or installing a level shelf.
- Durability: overstrike protection where fiberglass handles are most prone to break
- Improved grip during use: over mold grip
- EASE OF USE: Self-locking blade of the retractable tape measure stays extended
Amazon.com Price last update on 2024-12-20 - Details
WORKPRO Pliers Set
Pliers are that one tool that will frequently come in handy. This set has nearly one of every type of piers to help you in a specific application.
- 20Pcs Full Pliers Assortment - Included Long Nose Pliers (6in. 8in); Curved Jaw Locking Pliers (7in. 10in); Straight Jaw Locking Pliers (6-1/2in.); Diagonal Pliers ( 6in. 7in); Groove Joint Pliers (8in.10in.12in); Snap Ring Pliers (7in x 4pcs); Screw Extraction Pliers ( 8in); Slip Joint Pliers (6in, 8in); Linesman Pliers(8in); Wire Stripper (8in); Adjustable Oil Filter Wrench (12in);
- Excellent Build Quality - The pliers set are made of CR-V steel and carbon steel, and the surface is heat-treated and blackened to ensure higher hardness, better clamping force, toughness, and durability. The hardened cutting edge improves the cutting convenience, and the fine polishing enhances the corrosion resistance.
- 2-pack Pliers Organizer Rack - Each size of the plier storage and organization holder is 11.2"W x 5.5"D x 2.6"H, one of the racks has 4 slots for spring-loaded pliers and 6 regular slots for regular pliers. The other rack can be used for regular pliers. Keep your tools and accessories upright, and customize your workspace with the convenience of the toolbox organization.
Amazon.com Price last update on 2024-12-20 - Details
Feel the Energy – Power Tools
Battery-powered tools are everywhere now and the competition is fierce. These tools are not necessary. However, they can really AMP up your DIY game and help you complete the job faster. It feels good when you have the “right tool for the job”.
DeWALT Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
In 1996, the best tool I ever bought when we moved into our first home was a cordless drill. Although that cordless drill eventually met its demise my expectations of battery-powered tools were forever altered. The bar was set high. This kit by DeWALT has improved my DIY experience greatly. The ability to drill holes, drive screws, and even remove stuck fasteners with two tools is both rewarding and enjoyable.
- DCD800: ACCESS HARD TO REACH WORK AREAS: Compact 6.37 in. size is 1/2 in. shorter in length compared to the DCD791, tool head only
- DCD800: HIGH BIT RETENTION with 1/2 in. metal ratcheting chuck
- DCD800: BRIGHTEN DARK WORK AREAS: Adjustable 3-Position, 3 Mode LED with up to 70 Lumens, including LED spotlight mode which features a 20-minute shutoff function for extended work time in low-light spaces
Amazon.com Price last update on 2024-12-20 - Details
Craftsman Drill Bit Set
A drill is not complete without a drill bit set. This set of gold oxide bits has worked very well for me. I have been able to drill through wood, plastic, and even 1/4″ mild steel on my drill press. These outperform bits from other manufacturers that I have. It was money well spent.
- CORROSION RESISTANT: Gold oxide coated drill bit promotes longer life
- PRECISE HOLE PLACEMENT: Split Point of the drill bits for wood, metal or plastic provides precise hole placement and clean, burr-free holes
- CONVENIENCE: Metal Carrying Case for compact and durable storage of the drill bits
Amazon.com Price last update on 2024-12-20 - Details
Milwaukee Driver Bit Set
And like a drill, a driver is not complete without a driver bit set. I purchased this Shockwave set several years ago. Not one bit has worn on me. The strength of these bits is incredible. I’ve built planters, installed drywall, and built a shed with these bits.
- Geometric design provides the shock absorption
- Proprietary steel and heat treat process for maximum strength
- Proprietary Steel and Heat Treat Process For Maximum Strength and Durability
Amazon.com Price last update on 2024-12-20 - Details
Now You’re Ready to Save Money
My main goal is to help you save money by empowering you to tackle seemingly difficult DIY projects. Usually, this requires having basic tools. These tools will have an immediate benefit for you on your next project.
Take care and don’t go too far outside of your comfort zone for your first project. If you have a handy friend, it can be a real confidence booster to have them help you along. And a plus is you get to see them use their tools (or even your tools).
Consider all safety issues that could occur. I can’t possibly cover them all here but having a safety mindset is very important. Read the operating manual for any tools. Ladder safety is a real concern and there are many resources available online to learn more about it. Integrate personal protection into your DIY experience, which can include dust masks, safety eyewear, hearing protection, and more.
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