Just when you think you couldn’t drain your savings any more, you close on your new Southern Maryland house, unlock the door, and move in. All is right with the world!
But experienced homeowners will tell you that it takes a few weeks – or longer! — of living in a new home to find all the things that need repair or that you want to change. We’re guessing the last thing you want to do right now is spend more money, but that’s what you’ll need to do if you want to make the home more comfortable. There are no more landlords to do the work for you – it’s up to you to do them yourself or call in a professional.
If you’re handy and have the tools you need, many of the repairs will be DIY projects. If you don’t have the tools, it’s easy and inexpensive to assemble a basic tool kit to enable you to tackle small repairs around your home.
Start with the basics
Basic tools will help you get small jobs done; you don’t need to own every tool in a contractor’s inventory. Get a hammer, a measuring tape, Phillips and standard screwdrivers, an adjustable wrench, a utility blade, and a pair of pliers.
If you have the money, consider power tools like a drill and a sander.
Add on miscellaneous items
There are a few other items you’ll find handy to have around the house.
A 6-foot ladder: This is an indispensable item for all homeowners. You’ll need it to reach high places like HVAC filters and smoke alarms, which are often set in the ceiling.
Duct tape: We’re not joking when we say duct tape can work miracles. Go ahead and laugh, but there are so many uses for this stuff, from removing dust from a lamp shade to taping wires together after splicing them.
Paintbrushes: Get an assortment of sizes. The small ones are great for light touch ups, so be sure to get some little ones along with the standard-size brushes.
Flashlights: And don’t forget the batteries! Every home needs more than one flashlight – and not just for power outages. They’re also necessary for inspecting dark areas. You’ll appreciate it if one of the flashlights is hands-free.
Stud finder: Hanging shelves? You’ll need this to make sure they’re secure.
Level: Want those shelves to be straight? You’ll need a level. A level is handy when you’re hanging artwork, too.
Finding bargains on tools
You’ll find the best bargains at yard and garage sales and in online classifieds. Be careful if you’re buying secondhand power tools; these require a little more research. Make sure the cords aren’t frayed and that safety features are intact and functioning. Check the battery compartment on cordless tools, and don’t buy any that has rust or corrosion or if they don’t come with a charger.
Tools are a hot commodity at Habitat for Humanity ReStores, and you may find some good bargains on used tools at these nonprofit home improvement stores and donation centers. You feel good knowing that when you shop at a ReStore, the proceeds go back into your community.
Now you’ve got the tools! It’s time to learn how to do those upgrades and repairs. The Family Handyman or Bob Vila are great websites to search for affordable home improvement ideas and advice.
Hughesville MD Homes for Sale and Real Estate Services in Southern Maryland. You now have a search engine to help you with your Southern Maryland home search! And I’m ready to provide you with a custom home valuation if you’re considering selling your home. Let’s connect to discuss how I can help you. Contact Kimberly Bean at 301-440-1309
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