Becoming a homeowner for the first time comes with a lot of excitement—and a lot of new responsibilities. Suddenly, you’re in charge of everything: repairs, upgrades, landscaping, maintenance, and all those little weekend projects you never had to think about before.
The natural instinct is to run out and buy every tool you think you might need. But here’s the truth: not every tool deserves a permanent spot in your garage. Some are best rented, especially when you’re just starting out.
Here’s a guide to the essential tools every first-time homeowner should consider renting before buying. It saves money, cuts clutter, and helps you figure out what you really need long-term.
1. Power Washer
Use Case: Cleaning decks, driveways, siding, and outdoor furniture
A power washer can transform dirty surfaces in minutes, but it’s bulky and usually only used a few times a year. Renting one from Garage101 means you get the job done without committing to the storage or maintenance.
Why Rent First: Expensive to buy, limited seasonal use, needs proper maintenance
2. Ladder (Extension or Multi-Purpose)
Use Case: Gutter cleaning, roof access, painting, tree trimming
You may only need a tall ladder a few times a year. Unless you have consistent high-reach tasks, renting a ladder when needed makes more sense than letting it take up space in your garage.
Why Rent First: Awkward to store, infrequent use, multiple types for different projects
3. Tile Saw or Wet Saw
Use Case: Tiling a kitchen, bathroom, or outdoor area
Unless you’re flipping homes or doing regular renovations, this tool is a one-and-done. Renting lets you use a professional-grade saw without the price tag.
Why Rent First: High cost for limited use, messy cleanup, specialty tool
4. Rototiller
Use Case: Garden prep, lawn reseeding, landscaping
A rototiller is essential if you’re breaking new ground for a garden or yard project. But once the job is done, it often sits unused for months.
Why Rent First: Heavy, costly, used seasonally
5. Paint Sprayer
Use Case: Painting walls, fences, decks, or ceilings
Paint sprayers give a smooth finish fast, but they require a learning curve and intense cleaning. Try it through a rental to see if it’s something you’d want to use again.
Why Rent First: Can be messy, project-specific, may not be right for every painting task
6. Electric Sander
Use Case: Refinishing furniture, decks, or doors
Electric sanders are great for smoothing wood and prepping surfaces, but they’re not an everyday need. Renting saves you from buying multiple sanding pads and attachments prematurely.
Why Rent First: Occasional use, many types (orbital, belt, detail), noisy and dusty
7. Drain Snake or Plumbing Auger
Use Case: Clearing clogged drains or sewer lines
Plumbing emergencies are bound to happen, but a heavy-duty auger isn’t something you need unless you face frequent issues. Rent one when the need arises.
Why Rent First: Rare usage, can be messy, various sizes
8. Concrete or Demolition Tools
Use Case: Breaking patios, removing concrete, digging post holes
If you’re planning to tear down a section of concrete or install a fence, tools like jackhammers or augers are a must. But they’re also expensive and highly specialized.
Why Rent First: Only useful for major projects, heavy, expensive
Tips for Renting Tools the Smart Way
- Assess your project first. Know exactly what you’re trying to accomplish and which tools are truly needed.
- Use platforms like Garage101. Find tools near you, save money, and avoid big-box store rental fees.
- Inspect before use. Make sure everything works properly and is in good condition.
- Return on time and clean. Be courteous to tool owners and maintain your good renter rating.
Final Thoughts
As a first-time homeowner, you’re going to learn a lot—fast. The key is to stay practical and intentional with your purchases. Renting tools through Garage101 helps you test what works for your home, save money for bigger priorities, and avoid cluttering your space.
Before you buy, borrow smart. Start building your DIY confidence one project at a time with the tools you need, when you need them.
Check out Garage101.com to browse tools available near you or to list your own!
