10 Must Have Tools Every Homeowner Should Have and Where to Order Online

Brian Kondo
Thursday, September 18, 2025
10 Must Have Tools Every Homeowner Should Have and Where to Order Online



 





By REALTOR.ca


Buying your first home is a thrilling milestone, and once the keys are in your hand, the real adventure begins: turning your house into a home. From hanging curtains to assembling furniture to fixing leaky faucets, the right tools empower you to tackle everyday tasks and unexpected repairs with confidence.

Here’s a curated list of essential tools for every new homeowner, along with links so you can easily order them online. With these tools in your arsenal, you’ll save money on service calls, and keep your home in great shape from day one.


 

1. Cordless drill

Cordless drill

What is a cordless drill used for?
A cordless drill is a versatile power tool that helps with:

  • Drilling holes and driving screws quickly and efficiently.
  • Securing brackets and anchors when hanging shelves.
  • Attaching hardware or mounting components when installing fixtures.
  • Making your projects faster, sturdier, and more precise.

Power through repairs with the Milwaukee Cordless Drill/Driver – $149.99 on Amazon.ca.

Best feature:highly rated, well known brand.


 

2. Stud finder

Scanner

Why do I need a stud finder?
Before hanging anything heavy on your walls, especially in Canadian homes, a stud finder helps you:

  • Locate the wooden studs behind drywall.
  • Ensure your shelves, TVs, and artwork are securely mounted.
  • As an added safety features, some models also detect live wires.

Find secure spots on your walls with the Mecurate 5-in-1 Stud Finder – $34.99 on Amazon.ca.

Best feature: detects studs, metals and live wires behind drywall.


 

3. Screwdriver Set
 

Screwdriver Set

what types of screwdrivers do I need?
A quality set of screwdrivers includes both flathead and phillips screwdrivers. Whether you’re tightening cabinet handles or installing light switch covers, you’ll find yourself reaching for one constantly. A set with multiple sizes allows you to work in a range of projects from tiny electronics to large furniture bolts.

Pro Tip: Choose a set with magnetic tips to reduce the chances of dropping screws while you’re working.

Get this 6 Piece Magnetic-Tip Screwdriver Set – $16.99 on Amazon.ca.

Best features: Magnetic tips, and multiple sizes (3 phillips, 3 three flat).


 

4. Tape measure & laser combo
 

Tape measure & laser combo

Why get a laser measure?
Precision matters when measuring spaces for furniture, curtains, art work, or renovations. A hybrid tool like a laser/tape measure gives you the best of both worlds: traditional tape for short distances and a laser for long, accurate measurements.

Measure your space with precision using the LEXIVON 2 in 1 Digital Laser Tape Measure – $53.97 on Amazon.ca.

Best feature: combines a 40-metre laser distance measure with a five-metre AutoLock tape measure.


 

5. Level

level
 

Why is a level tool important?

  • A level is an essential tool for homeowners because it:
  • Helps confirm whether a surface is perfectly horizontal (level) or vertical (plumb).
  • Allows you to ensure your shelves, curtain rods, and picture frames are perfectly straight.
  • Using a level prevents long-term problems such as doors not closing properly or unusual wear-and-tear on uneven surfaces.

Keep shelves and frames perfectly straight with the Dewalt Magnetic Level – $39.98 on Amazon.ca.
 

Best feature: durable, yet compact.


 

6. Step ladder

ladder
 

Do I need a step ladder in my house?
A sturdy step ladder inside the home is essential for:

  • Changing light bulbs.
  • Painting high areas.
  • Reaching top shelves
  • A 3- or 4-step ladder is perfect for indoor use and is safer than standing on chairs or countertops.

Pro Tip: Choose one with a built-in tool tray to keep screws and tools within reach.

Safely Reaching high places with this 3-Step Folding Ladder – $79.99 on Amazon.ca.

Best feature:comes with a removable tray for tools and paint buckets.


 

7. Adjustable wrenches

wrenches
 

What are wrenches used for?
Wrenches are used for gripping, turning, tightening, or loosening nuts, bolts, and other fasteners. They give you the leverage needed to apply torque without damaging the fastener, making them essential for tightening bolts that can loosen over time from regular use, vibration, or seasonal expansion and contraction.

Get this versatile Amazon Basics 4-Piece Adjustable Wrench Set – $63.09 on Amazon.ca.

Best feature: includes a carry case.


 

8. Hammer & mallet set

Hammer & mallet set
 

How is a mallet different from a hammer?
A hammer: delivers strong, focused force to drive nails, while its clawed end is used to pull out old nails or staples.
A mallet: is perfect for gentler tasks like tapping tiles into place, or nudging wooden joints together without damage.
With both in your toolbox, you’re ready for everything from rugged repairs to precise adjustments.

Get this 3-Piece Hammer/Mallet Set – $27.60 on Amazon.ca.

Best feature: anti-skid handles to prevent sudden drops.



 

9. Pliers

Pliers
 

What are pliers?
Whether you’re bending a piece of metal, cutting a wire, or holding objects steady while you work, pliers give you the grip and leverage that your fingers simply can’t match. It’s one of those tool investments you’ll find yourself reaching for more often than you expect.

Get this versatile set of Amazon Basics 4-Piece Plier Set – $25.14 on Amazon.ca.
 

Best feature: includes both cutting and gripping pliers.



 

10. Toolbox or Tool organizer

Toolbox

Why do I need a toolbox?

  • A well organized tool box keeps all your tools in one place making them easy to find.
  • Having a dedicated space for tools also protects them from damage, dust, and moisture, which helps them last longer.
  • A toolbox also improves safety by preventing sharp or heavy tools from being left out where they could cause injury.

Keep all your tools organized using the Trahzia Heavy Duty Tool Storage Bag – $55.99 on Amazon.ca.

Best feature: customizable compartments for carrying a variety of tools.

Owning these tools empowers you to handle everyday tasks and minor fixes with confidence, ensuring your home stays in excellent condition. As you settle into your new space, a well-stocked toolbox becomes more than just an investment; it’s a key to maintaining comfort, protecting your property, and giving you the peace of mind that you’re ready for whatever comes your way.




Have you thought about buying, selling or both this year but are not sure if now is the right time to do it?   Call me and I’ll let you know what’s happening with the current market and, based on your individual situation, let you know if you should buy and/or sell now, or wait. 

 
However, if you are definitely going to be buying and/or selling in the next little while, please reach out.  There is over 100 years of experience on The Brian Kondo Real Estate Team.  With our proven Home Selling System, we help our clients sell their home fast, for top dollar, using our experience to make it a smooth and pleasant experience.  Using our exclusive Home Buying System, we help our clients find the home of their dreams!
  


To find out more, please call me at 905-683-7800.  You can also email me at brian@briankondo.com.








 

Thanks for reading today’s BLOG!!!



Brian Kondo
Sales Representative / Team Leader
The Brian Kondo Real Estate Team
Re/Max Hallmark First Group Realty Ltd.
905-683-7800 office

905-426-7484 direct
brian@briankondo.com

www.BrianKondo.com
www.BrianKondoTeam.com



 


 

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If you or anyone you know is considering making a move in the next little while, give me a call or pass on my number ... 905-683-7800 (Office) or 905-426-7484 (Direct).




 

The above REALTOR.ca TEAM  article was initially published on Realtor.ca.  You can find it by clicking here

REALTOR.ca is the most popular and most trusted real estate website in Canada. Owned and operated by the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), REALTOR.ca provides up-to-date and reliable information that makes finding your dream property easy and enjoyable. REALTOR.ca is popular with sellers, buyers, and renters and is accessible online and on mobile devices.

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 REALTOR.ca Team





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