New homeowners' buying guide: Here's what you need in your toolkit

Speaker 1: You just got the keys to your first house. It's an exciting time and particularly impressive right now since the housing market is Speaker 2: Complicated, either way, the home is yours, and you're probably starting to think about how to make it Speaker 1: Your own. So here's all the basic tools and devices you need to make life easier in your new place, Speaker 2: Whether you, and to leave most of the repairs to professionals or have dreams of becoming a seasoned DIYer, every new homeowner needs a toolbox, and there are some essential multitasking tools [00:00:30] that can help you out in a ton of different scenarios. I'm adding in an obligatory note here always consult a professional. If you have any specific questions or concerns about your home before you start a renovation or repair project, okay. Onto the tools, Speaker 1: You're gonna need a screwdriver, a cordless drill with compatible bits, a tape measure, a level apply set, and an electrical test kit. There are too Speaker 2: Many scenarios to list where one or potentially many of these tools could come in handy. And [00:01:00] while you're probably already well, all familiar with tape measure, drill levels and screwdrivers, the tongue and groove pliers, and the electrical test kit may not be as familiar Speaker 1: Tongue and groove. Pliers have a lot of applications, but are especially handy for plumbing or gripping nuts and bolts. Think changing out a shower, head or retrieving a wedding ring. You lost down the sink electric test kits. May your current voltage and more the outlet tester and voltage pin detect voltage outlet, testers work for standard three prong outlets. [00:01:30] Whereas voltage pins can work with outlets, including two prong outlets and other electrical devices. Multimeters are more advanced and can be used to test light switches and appliances, and they provide more detailed readings. You'll wanna extra. Sure. You're familiar with the safety information before using a multi meter. Speaker 2: Now that you have your toolbox sorted, let's talk about home devices that will help make daily life a lot easier. There are so many great options available nowadays, but smart lights, locks, thermostats and security cameras will have the biggest impact Speaker 1: For smart lights. I'd start with an [00:02:00] affordable wifi. L E D like the wise bulb color, this 75 wat equivalent bulb has adjustable white light color temperatures and color changing capabilities. It costs $27 for a pack of two bulbs and has even more options than the editor's choice. Award-winning wise bulb August's $230. Wifi smart lock is our favorite smart lock to date. It retro fits to most standard deadbolts and comes with an open closed sensor to let you know when the door opens the August wifi smart [00:02:30] lock is our current favorite. Out of all the smart locks we've tested. We like the eco be smart thermostat with voice control for smart thermostats. This $250 model has a built-in Lexus speaker and an occupancy sensor to determine whether your home or away plus it won a CNET editor's choice award. The $36 wise cam is the best security camera we've tested. It's cheap and reliable and can be used inside or outside to keep an eye on your new property. Buying Speaker 2: Your first house is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming [00:03:00] hopefully with some of these basic tools and gadgets, you should be well on your way to making your house feel more like a home.