9 Must-Have Items for Your New Home

These essentials will help you tackle everything from everyday tasks to unexpected repairs.

When Lauren Hunter and her husband moved into their first home in Hilliard, Ohio, the previous homeowner left behind a ladder. "It turned out to be awesome," she recalls. "You don’t realize how often you need a ladder until you're hanging curtains in a two-story great room!"

As a new homeowner, you’re bound to encounter surprises, like realizing you can’t hold a flashlight and fix a leaky pipe at the same time. But with a few key items, you'll be ready for whatever comes your way—just like Hunter, thanks to that trusty ladder.

Here are 9 essentials you should consider for your new house:

1. Wet-Dry Vacuum
Spills happen, and a wet-dry vacuum is the perfect solution for cleaning everything from paint splatters to small stones and nails. Hunter's family inherited one with their first home, and it quickly became indispensable, especially for cleaning the car and garage.

2. The Right Fire Extinguisher
A fire extinguisher is a must-have for every homeowner. After a close call with a homemade candle fire, Nina Patel swears by keeping one nearby. Make sure to select the right type for your home—there are different extinguishers for everything from cooking oil to electrical fires.

3. Extension Cord Organizer
Extension cords are inevitable in any new home. Invest in a cord organizer or create one yourself with a pegboard, hooks, and velcro straps to keep cords neat and easily accessible. Don't forget a heavy-duty outdoor extension cord, too, for those big projects.

4. Big-Kid Tools
You probably already own the basics like a hammer and screwdriver, but homeownership may require a few new tools, such as:

Stud finder: Perfect for hanging shelves or artwork safely.
Hand saw: A simple, cost-effective tool for small DIY projects.
Ratchet set: Ideal for loosening bolts in tight spaces.
Pry bar: Essential for removing nails, trim, and other materials.

5. Tool Kit
Having a portable tool carrier or handyman belt will keep your tools close by and ready for use. Consider a 5-gallon bucket with a tool liner or a belt filled with the essentials for easy access.

6. Headlamp
No more holding a flashlight with your teeth. A headlamp lets you work hands-free while fixing leaky pipes or tackling other tasks that require both hands and light.

7. Emergency Preparedness Kit
FEMA recommends keeping an emergency kit stocked with essentials such as food, water, medications, a flashlight, and first aid supplies. Be sure to include enough provisions for all household members, including pets, for at least 72 hours.

8. Ladder(s)
A ladder is essential, but not just any ladder will do. Consider:

The height you’ll need to reach (extension or step ladder).
Where you’ll use it (make sure it’s safe and stable).
Weight capacity (check the duty rating to ensure it can support you and your tools).
Additionally, consider an escape ladder for multi-story homes in case of emergency.

9. Confidence
For first-time homeowners, the responsibility can feel overwhelming, but a little confidence goes a long way. “With a little self-assurance—and some YouTube tutorials—there’s almost no DIY project you can’t handle,” says Hunter. Whether it’s mowing the lawn or fixing a faucet, you’ve got this!