Q: I’m a new condo owner. I’m not handy at all, but I figured I’d better learn some of the basics or get ready to shell out the bucks for a contractor to do what I should do myself.

I’ve got two questions for you guys:

  • How do I learn the basics of home repair?
  • What tools should I buy?

A: Congratulations.

We applaud your desire to do the work yourself. There’s a lot you can do to save time and aggravation, not to mention money, by not hiring work out.

To start your education we suggest that you do two things. First, read. Go to the library and borrow some books on basic construction. Flip through them and focus on what strikes your fancy. Don’t forget magazines. Especially check out Fine Homebuilding magazine. Although advanced, it’s a good place to get tips on some basic skills.

Second, watch television. We’ve said many times that we cut our building teeth watching "This Old House." We learned a ton about carpentry from Norm Abrams and Tom Silva, plumbing from Rich Trethewey, and other tricks of the trades from master builders over the years. "Holmes on Homes" is also a good show to check out.

In the same vein, check out YouTube on the Internet. We’ve seen a number of excellent tutorials from hanging pictures to building the walls they hang on.

Channel-lock pliers: To be used for loosening drains under the sink, among other things.

Four-in-one screwdriver: This versatile tool is a large and small flat head and Phillips head tool in one.

Adjustable crescent wrenches (6- and 14-inch): Crescent wrenches adjust to fit most nuts and bolts. The larger size gives more leverage and the smaller size fits more easily into tight places.

Basin wrench: Sooner or later you will have to change a water faucet in the kitchen or bath. When you do, this inexpensive specialty tool is used for detaching water supplies from underneath a sink.

Voltage tester: We suggest that most home electrical work be left to the pros. But the homeowner may try some very small fixes. Before working on any electrical circuit, make sure the power is off and test it with this tool.

Show Comments Hide Comments
Sign up for Inman’s Morning Headlines
What you need to know to start your day with all the latest industry developments
By submitting your email address, you agree to receive marketing emails from Inman.
Success!
Thank you for subscribing to Morning Headlines.
Back to top
Only 3 days left to register for Inman Connect Las Vegas before prices go up! Don't miss the premier event for real estate pros.Register Now ×
Limited Time Offer: Get 1 year of Inman Select for $199SUBSCRIBE×
Log in
If you created your account with Google or Facebook
Don't have an account?
Forgot your password?
No Problem

Simply enter the email address you used to create your account and click "Reset Password". You will receive additional instructions via email.

Forgot your username? If so please contact customer support at (510) 658-9252

Password Reset Confirmation

Password Reset Instructions have been sent to

Subscribe to The Weekender
Get the week's leading headlines delivered straight to your inbox.
Top headlines from around the real estate industry. Breaking news as it happens.
15 stories covering tech, special reports, video and opinion.
Unique features from hacker profiles to portal watch and video interviews.
Unique features from hacker profiles to portal watch and video interviews.
It looks like you’re already a Select Member!
To subscribe to exclusive newsletters, visit your email preferences in the account settings.
Up-to-the-minute news and interviews in your inbox, ticket discounts for Inman events and more
1-Step CheckoutPay with a credit card
By continuing, you agree to Inman’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

You will be charged . Your subscription will automatically renew for on . For more details on our payment terms and how to cancel, click here.

Interested in a group subscription?
Finish setting up your subscription
×