Unlike renting an apartment, being a homeowner entails attending to any mess that goes down in your home.

With this added responsibility, you'll need to have an impeccable selection of tools ready to help you in any situation.

That said, this doesn't mean you have to buy an entire workshop worth of supplies.

A few simple and relatively inexpensive tools are all you need to complete most around-the-house projects.

Whether you're a seasoned craftsman or a budding DIY enthusiast, here are some handy tools you should keep in your home.

1) A Good Drill

A drill is one of the most versatile tools that you can have around the house. It's perfect for projects like hanging curtains, assembling furniture, and even drilling holes for nails or screws. It can also be used to create pilot holes for larger projects.

When choosing a drill, be sure to pick one that is cordless and has multiple speed settings. You won't have to worry about cumbersome wires or a sluggish operation dragging you down.

On top of that, a good drill will help tremendously in any DIY projects that'll require customised plank measurements. Whether you're planning to install new shelves or build a small set of stairs, having a good drill will make the job so much easier. Visit Star Building Material's website, with their range of products, services, and expertise, they support everyone from professionals to DIY enthusiasts in completing projects.

2) A Hand Saw

For any project that involves cutting wood, a saw is a must-have. Whether you're cutting 2x4s for a shelving unit or trimming down door frames, having a good saw on hand will make your life much easier.

There are many types of saws you can choose from—rip-cut saws, bow saws, pruning saws, pull saws, back saws, and keyhole saws are all viable options. For general DIY projects, a rip-cut saw can do the job magnificently.

That said, be sure to get a saw with a comfortable grip and an adjustable blade so that you can make precise cuts. Unless you're doing heavy-duty woodcutting, you can hold off the stronger power saws. But they're always an option if you need a little more oomph and precision when cutting wood.

3) A Level

Levels are an overlooked part of the DIY process. But unless you're fine with crooked and jagged planks (which are no-nos for certain builds), then you should absolutely secure a level before starting any project.

A level helps you ensure that your cuts and foundation are straight. This doesn't only make your project look more polished—it also makes the entire building process much easier. After all, it'll be tough nailing down crooked planks onto a surface that requires precise measurements.

A level isn't only for horizontal surfaces. You can also use it to check for verticality when hanging pictures or shelves. A good level can ensure that your planks are parallel or perpendicular to the ground for a polished look.

A mason's level is a specific type of level that's ideal for building cabinets and shelves. But if you're handling a bigger project, a carpenter's level might be a more suitable choice.

4) A Measuring Tape

While a level ensures that you don't accidentally make your plank crooked or jagged, a measuring tape helps ensure that it's cut to precision in the first place.

A measuring tape is another must-have tool for any home improvement project. You'll need it to measure walls, furniture, and other objects before cutting or drilling anything. It's used even beyond the construction process—you can also use it to measure fabric for new curtains or even for your next home painting project.

The great thing about measuring tapes is that they're lightweight and relatively easy to store. You can easily keep one in your toolkit or even your bedside table, so you always have it within reach when the need for measuring arises.

5) Duct Tape

Duct tape is one of the most versatile tools you can have at home. It can be used for a seemingly endless number of tasks, from removing pet hair in carpets to securing a cardboard box.

Whether you’re patching some furniture or building your dream home, duct tape can be used for general sealing and packing purposes. It's a go-to repair item for many because it's readily available and relatively cheap in online retailers like Agora.

Duct tape can also come in handy when you need to quickly patch up holes or cracks in your walls. It's not the most permanent solution, but it'll do in a pinch. That said, avoid exposing it to extreme heat or water as this can weaken the stickiness of the adhesive.

6) Nails and Screws

Of course, no home improvement project would be complete without nails and screws. These small pieces of metal are essential for joining wood and other materials together.

There is an assortment of nails and screws you can choose from, each with its own specific purpose. For example, drywall screws are used for joining wallboard to studs, while deck screws are ideal for outdoor projects like building a deck or installing rails.

By having these little metallic pieces on hand, you can quickly get to business without having to go to the hardware store to buy more.

7) A Hammer

What use would nails and screws have if there wasn't a hammer to drive them in?

When picking a hammer, a medium-sized with a rip claw is usually a good choice. It's versatile enough to be used for most general home improvement projects. If you want a more durable hammer, opt for a metal handle instead of a wooden handle. You'll also be able to hit harder due to its bulkier build.