Hey everyone! After two solid decades of living in apartments, my wife and I are finally diving into homeownership! I'm really excited to start building my toolkit for all the DIY projects I've been dreaming about. I'd love to hear your thoughts on brands and models you trust for essential tools. If you have suggestions for multi-use or all-in-one tools, that's a bonus! Additionally, what are your thoughts on buying new vs. purchasing used tools from places like Facebook Marketplace? Is it worth the savings or more trouble than it's worth? Here's the list of tools I'm considering getting: Air Compressor, Nail Gun, Drill, Pressure Washer, Table Saw, Circular Saw, Paint/Stain Sprayer, Miter Saw, Clamps, Router, Tool Cabinets, and a Ladder. Any advice or must-have tools I'm missing? Thanks in advance, I appreciate any help!
3 Answers
If it helps, I would suggest starting with essentials. Get an impact driver, a set of basic hand tools (like pliers and screwdrivers), and a good level. Wait to buy the bigger stuff until you have specific projects lined up. Brands like Ryobi are pretty reliable for homeowners, and don’t overlook buying used tools; you can find decent quality at a fraction of the price. Remember, invest in those you'll use often, and save on one-time-use tools by going cheaper!
The best advice I can give is to buy tools as you actually need them. For things like drills, stick with battery-powered options. But for larger tools like table saws or miter saws, I'd recommend corded versions for better power and efficiency. Also, if you're pottering around as a homeowner, there's really no rush to grab everything at once; just get what fits your immediate needs. Buying from places like estate sales can score you some awesome tools at a bargain!
Absolutely! Estate sales are goldmines. Just last week, I picked up a circulation saw and an oscillating tool for a steal. Definitely check those out!
Have you thought about checking out a tool library in your area? They often have tools you might not need frequently, and you can borrow them for free. It could save you some money!
Great tip! I always say to avoid going all-in at once; start with what you need for your first few projects. Plus, places like Harbor Freight have affordable options for tools you might just use a few times.