If you recently purchased a home and have a big move looming in the not-so-distant future, preparation is key to ensuring the process goes as smoothly as possible—and that includes making sure you have the right tools for the job. Here are some common tools you should have at the ready when moving to a new home.
1. Cordless Drill. From hanging shelves to photos—and assembling furniture—a cordless drill will help you get any job done quickly and easily. Going cordless is also a great option when it comes to working around the nooks and crannies of your new home.
2. Tape Measure. Whether it’s making sure the TV is centered on the wall or ordering a rug to fit a specific space, a tape measure will undoubtedly come in handy as you unpack your belongings. Invest a few extra dollars and purchase a retractable tape measure that won’t break or tear easily.
3. Level. Hanging art or photos is often more challenging than most people think, and the last thing you want is a bunch of frames hanging crookedly throughout your home. Purchasing a level is a surefire way to ensure everything gets hung with precision.
4. Extension Cords. Typically an afterthought, extension cords can come in handy during parties, around the holidays and in rooms where electrical outlets may not be conveniently located.
5. Pliers and Wrenches. Good for tightening shelves and cabinets and many small plumbing jobs you may need to tackle in the bathroom, pliers and wrenches are a must-have for any homeowner’s toolbox.
6. Socket Set. No home is complete without a set of ratcheting wrenches with metric and standard sockets in different drives.
7. Screwdrivers. Be sure to stock up on screwdrivers of different sizes (both flat- and Phillips-head), as this is the tool you’ll reach for most often. Whether it’s for hanging items up, replacing smoke detector batteries—and many other ordinary fix-it-up jobs—you’ll want to be prepared.
While this list is just the tip of the iceberg, these tools will come in handy for years to come.
