You don’t need a garage full of tools to be a capable homeowner — but therearea few essentials that make life a whole lot easier. Whether you’re tightening a loose hinge, hanging décor, or tackling a weekend project, these five tools earn their keep over and over again.

If you’ve ever said,“I really should own one of those,”this list is for you.

A Good Drill / Driver

If there’s one tool we’d call a must-have, this is it.

A quality drill/driver handles everything from assembling furniture to hanging shelves and fixing loose hardware. Look for one with variable speed and a comfortable grip — you’ll use it more than you think.

We carry great options from Milwaukee, DeWalt, and Craftsman, whether you want something compact or a little more heavy-duty.

A Reliable Tape Measure

It’s amazing how often a project starts with,“How wide is that again?”

A solid tape measure helps you measure once (or twice) and cut once. Keep one in the kitchen junk drawer and another in the garage — trust us, they wander off.

A Hammer That Feels Right

Not all hammers are created equal. A comfortable grip and balanced weight make a big difference, especially when you’re driving nails, tapping boards into place, or convincing something to move just a little bit more.

This is one of those tools you’ll reach for far more often than you expect.

A Set of Screwdrivers (or Multi-Bit Driver)

Flathead, Phillips, star… there’s always one screw that refuses to cooperate.

A good screwdriver set — or a multi-bit driver — makes quick work of outlet covers, cabinet hardware, toys that mysteriously come apart, and just about every small fix around the house.

A Level (Because Crooked Drives Everyone Crazy)

That shelf looks straight… until you step back.

A level keeps picture frames, shelves, and décor from slowly driving you nuts. Even a small torpedo level can save a lot of frustration and second-guessing.

Bonus Tip: Storage Makes the Difference

Once you’ve got these essentials, keeping them organized is key. A simple toolbox,Stanley box, DeWalt ToughSystem, or Milwaukee PACKOUT setup keeps everything in one place and ready to go.

The Local Hardware Advantage

If you’re not sure which tool fits your needs, that’s where we come in. At Rio Rancho Hardware, we’re happy to help you compare options, explain features, and make sure you walk out with tools you’ll actually use not something that collects dust.

Whether you’re a brand-new homeowner or just ready to upgrade the basics, these five tools are a solid foundation for tackling projects with confidence.

Stop by and let’s build your toolbox the right way — one Fix-It Friday at a time.