There ought to be a gift registry for all new first time homeowners. Why? Because there are lots of things you’ll need to stock up on after you move in you may never have thought about while you were still in escrow waiting for your moving van to arrive.

HouseLogic’s Stacey Freed describes how a couple moved into their first time and discovered that the previous homeowner had left behind a ladder. It was a godsend for jobs where ladders make things easier, such as hanging pictures and especially for hanging curtains in rooms with vaulted ceilings and tall windows. “Whether it’s the need to hang a clock just a few feet higher or the realization that you really can’t hold a flashlight and get that nut loosened under the sink, there’s always something catching you by surprise as a homeowner,” says Freed, who offers a pretty complete list of what to budget for upon move-in.

A wet-dry vac is a must, able to handle everything from paint to nails and small stones. Another is a fire extinguisher — take it from people who have accidentally caused little house fires and realized a pail of water was not enough. Freed advises, however, that you first check out the U.S. Fire Administration’s guide, because there are five different types of fire extinguishers with different uses, from extinguishing cooking oils to wood and paper.

Extension cords will become your best friend for a while because electrical outlets may not be placed in all the strategic places you would think. “Homeownership seems to breed extension cords that grow into a tangled nest,” says Freed. “Save yourself time and hassle, and splurge on one of several cord management devices.” Your cords will be knot-free and easy to find.

And then there are the basics, such as big boy/big girl tools, such flathead and Phillips screwdrivers, a ratchet set, a pry bar, a hammer, level, tape measure, wrench, pliers, staple gun, utility knife, etc. You may need a few more, such as a stud finder, hand saw, and a power saw for small DIY projects.

Now that you’ve collected them, you’ll need something in which to carry them from project to project, such as a tool bucket or a handyman belt filled with the basics to keep on hand. Freed also recommends you take that flashlight out of your mouth and work hands-free. “From switching out a faucet to figuring out what’s making that clicking noise behind the washer, there are plenty of homeowner tasks that require both hands and a little artificial light.”

FEMA offers a list of supplies you should have in your home kit, including cash, food, water, infant formula and diapers, medications, a flashlight, batteries, first aid kit, matches, sleeping bags, and a change of clothing, recommending that you stock enough for every member of your household, including pets, for at least 72 hours.

There are plenty of YouTube tutorials to refer to if DIY tendencies are not in your DNA — everything from mowing a lawn to fixing a shingle or changing a faucet. So go forth, new homeowner, and attack the types of “honey-dos” you never thought you’d conquer.

Source: HouseLogic | TBWS