Gifts for New Homeowners

A cordless drill is the tool new owners use first and most: hanging shelves, assembling furniture, installing curtain rods. This long-running DEWALT kit comes with two batteries and a charger, and it opens the door to the brand's huge battery-compatible tool lineup.

Worth knowing: Drill bits and driver bits are sold separately, so add a basic bit set. Serious DIYers may prefer a brushless model.

A starter kit with sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers and hex keys covers most small household repairs, and it all lives in one organized case. It saves a dozen separate hardware-store purchases.

Worth knowing: It's a homeowner kit, not a professional set. It doesn't include a hammer or power tools, so pair it with the drill above.

Instead of beeping vaguely, this stud finder uses a row of sensors to light up the full width of a stud at once, which makes it much easier to use than older single-sensor models. It's a favorite of DIYers for exactly that reason.

Worth knowing: Like all stud finders, it can struggle with very thick plaster or lath walls. Confirm with a small nail before drilling a big hole.

A rechargeable, multi-purpose extinguisher rated for common household fires is one of those things everyone should own and few people buy for themselves. It's a caring, practical gift, and it comes with a mounting bracket.

Worth knowing: Check the pressure gauge periodically and learn how to use it before you need it. Consider a smaller one for the kitchen too.

These small sensors sit under sinks, near the water heater and behind the washer, sounding an alarm and sending a phone alert if they detect water. Catching a slow leak early can prevent an expensive repair.

Worth knowing: Phone alerts require the included Wi-Fi gateway and the Govee app. Batteries need occasional replacement.

Smart plugs make lamps, string lights and fans controllable by phone, schedule or voice assistant, with no hub required. A 4-pack is a cheap, fun first step into a smart home.

Worth knowing: They only work on standard 2.4GHz Wi-Fi, and they aren't meant for high-power appliances like space heaters.

A video doorbell lets new owners see who's at the door and check on deliveries from anywhere, and the battery version installs without any wiring. It brings peace of mind to a place that's still unfamiliar.

Worth knowing: Recording and video history require a paid Ring subscription, and the battery needs recharging every few months. Some people have privacy concerns about doorbell cameras.

The Little Green spot cleaner sprays and extracts spills from carpets, rugs, car seats and upholstery, and owners with pets often call it one of their most-used purchases. It's the gift that saves a new rug from its first red-wine accident.

Worth knowing: It's for spot cleaning, not whole rooms, and the tanks are small. Empty and rinse it after each use to avoid odors.

A new home is the perfect moment to label the breaker panel, pantry bins and storage boxes, and this simple Brother label maker is easy to use with a familiar keyboard. Labeling the breaker box alone makes it worthwhile.

Worth knowing: It uses Brother TZe tape cartridges, which are an ongoing cost, and runs on AA batteries unless you buy the adapter.

The Instant Pot Duo pressure cooks, slow cooks and makes rice and yogurt, so it can replace several appliances in a new kitchen. The 6-quart size is the most popular for families of two to four.

Worth knowing: It takes up counter space and has a learning curve. Check they don't already have one; many people do.

Every home needs a stable step stool for changing bulbs, smoke-alarm batteries and reaching top shelves, and this one folds flat to store in a closet. It's an unglamorous gift that gets used weekly.

Worth knowing: Three steps won't reach very high ceilings or gutters. Respect the weight rating.

Command strips hang art, hooks and cords without damaging walls, which is perfect while new owners are still deciding where everything goes. A variety pack covers frames, wires and utility hooks.

Worth knowing: They have weight limits and don't stick well to textured walls or in cold, humid spots. Follow the press-and-wait instructions.