It is inevitable as a Northern Virginia/South Carolina homeowner. At one point or another, you are going to need to hang a picture, put up curtain rods or do some other odds and ends that require tools. You don't want to have to traipse out to the garage, searching for the right tool to do a basic repair or installation. That's why it's important to have a set of tools specifically for these types of jobs. Here are the items to include when putting together a basic toolkit for homeowners:

• adjustable wrench
• assortment of nuts, bolts, screws, washers and nails of various sizes
• construction level
• duct tape
• flashlight
• glue (contact cement, wood glue, super glue)
• hammer
• pliers
• screwdrivers (several different sizes, both flat and Phillips head)
• tape measure
• utility knife
• wire snips

Of course, you're going to need a portable toolbox to keep everything handy. Store it under your kitchen or bathroom sink for easy access when needed. If your budget can handle it, consider adding cordless power tools to your toolkit. They can make any job go quicker and easier.

Putting together a basic toolkit for homeowners is a necessity for every Northern Virginia/South Carolina home. If you need help buying or selling your Northern Virginia or South Carolina home, please feel free to contact me.

Gene Mock, your Northern Virginia, South Carolina, Maryland and Washington DC real estate specialist