Essential Tools Every Home Should Have: A Guide from Your Local Real Estate Team

As homeowners, renters, or future buyers, we all know that having a home is one thing—but keeping it running smoothly is another! Whether it’s fixing a loose doorknob, hanging a family photo, or unclogging a stubborn drain, having the right tools handy can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration. But don’t worry—you don’t need a full-blown toolbox like a pro contractor. Just a few essential items will do the trick! At Sold by Shearers Team, we’ve put together a guide to the most essential tools every home should have. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or just looking to refresh your tool collection, this list has you covered.

1. Hammer

Let’s start with the basics. A hammer is one of the most versatile tools you can own. Need to hang a picture? Fix a loose floorboard? A sturdy claw hammer is perfect for both driving nails into surfaces and removing them. For general home use, opt for a lightweight hammer with a comfortable, non-slip grip. It’s one of those tools you don’t realize you need until it’s too late—so make sure it’s a staple in your toolkit!

2. Screwdrivers (Flathead & Phillips)

A good set of screwdrivers is a must for any home. You’ll encounter screws everywhere: in furniture, cabinets, appliances, and even in kids’ toys (who hasn’t wrestled with a battery compartment?). A Phillips screwdriver (the one with a cross-shaped head) and a flathead screwdriver (with a straight edge) will be your go-to for most tasks. You can even find multi-bit screwdrivers that come with interchangeable heads, giving you more versatility in one compact tool.

3. Tape Measure

Ever tried to guess if a new couch will fit through your doorway? Spoiler alert: it’s harder than it seems! That’s where a good tape measure comes in handy. Whether you’re measuring for furniture, picture frames, or even curtains, a 25-foot tape measure should be enough for most household projects. Bonus tip: it’s always good to measure twice before you commit to drilling holes or making purchases. It’ll save you time, energy, and possible headaches!

4. Level

If you’ve ever hung a picture frame or shelf that didn’t quite sit straight, you know how important a level can be. Sure, you could eyeball it, but why risk it? A small bubble level or a laser level (for tech lovers) ensures everything from shelves to artwork is perfectly horizontal or vertical. Trust us—your walls will thank you.

5. Utility Knife

A sharp utility knife is a lifesaver when it comes to opening boxes, trimming wallpaper, or even cutting carpet. With replaceable blades, it’s an affordable tool that’s endlessly useful. It’s compact, sharp, and easy to handle, making it a go-to tool for both small and larger tasks.

6. Pliers

Pliers are like the Swiss army knife of the toolbox world. They grip, twist, pull, and even cut. A good set of needle-nose pliers is essential for gripping small objects in tight spaces, while standard slip-joint pliers can help with everything from plumbing repairs to bending wires. You’ll be surprised how often you reach for these when you need a bit more grip or leverage.

7. Adjustable Wrench

An adjustable wrench is perfect for tightening and loosening nuts and bolts of various sizes. From assembling furniture to fixing a leaky faucet, this tool will serve you well in a variety of situations. Unlike a standard wrench set, an adjustable wrench can fit different-sized fasteners, saving space in your toolbox and making it incredibly versatile.

8. Drill (Cordless)

If you plan on doing any kind of home improvement project, a cordless drill is an absolute game-changer. Whether you’re putting up shelves, assembling furniture, or installing hardware, a drill makes the job faster and easier. Look for one with rechargeable batteries and a set of drill bits. You don’t need the most powerful model—something lightweight and easy to use will do the trick for most homeowners.

9. Allen Wrenches (Hex Keys)

If you’ve ever bought furniture from IKEA or assembled a bicycle, you’ve likely encountered an Allen wrench. These handy little tools (also known as hex keys) are essential for assembling furniture, fixing bikes, and tightening bolts in tight spaces. A set with a variety of sizes is ideal and will likely come in handy more than you think.

10. Flashlight

A reliable flashlight or a headlamp is a must-have for every home. Power outages, dark basements, and under-the-sink repairs all require good lighting. Opt for a bright, LED flashlight with long battery life. Keep it somewhere easily accessible, so you’re not stuck in the dark searching for it when the lights go out!

11. Stud Finder

If you plan on hanging heavy items like shelves, mirrors, or TVs, you’ll want to find the studs behind your walls. Studs provide the necessary support to hold the weight without damaging your wall. A simple electronic stud finder can detect where the studs are, ensuring that your items are mounted securely.

12. Duct Tape

We can’t finish this list without mentioning the all-time household champion: duct tape. Whether it’s a temporary fix for a leaking pipe, patching up a broken piece of furniture, or even securing a loose cable, duct tape can handle just about anything. Keep a roll on hand for those “I’ll fix it later” moments.

13. Fire Extinguisher

This isn’t technically a tool, but it’s one of the most important safety items you should have in your home. A small, easy-to-use fire extinguisher can save your home in case of an emergency. Make sure to keep one in the kitchen and check it regularly to ensure it’s in working order.

Having these essential tools in your home ensures you’re prepared for most minor repairs and DIY projects. Not only will they help you maintain your home, but they’ll also save you from needing to call in help for simple fixes.

At Sold by Shearers Team, we believe that a well-equipped home is a happy home. We’re here to help you with all aspects of homeownership, from buying and selling to maintenance tips and community insights.

So, whether you’re moving into a new house or simply upgrading your toolkit, this list will help you be prepared for anything that comes your way!