You don't need a fully stocked workshop to handle most common household repairs. A relatively small, well-chosen toolkit covers the vast majority of situations that come up in everyday life.
The core hand tools
A claw hammer, a set of Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, an adjustable wrench, and a tape measure form the foundation of almost any household toolkit and are used far more often than more specialized tools.
Don't skip a good level and utility knife
A small level is essential for hanging shelves or artwork straight, while a sturdy utility knife handles everything from opening boxes to trimming materials during small projects.
Add a basic power tool once the hand tools are covered
A cordless drill with a mixed bit set is usually the first power tool worth adding, since it handles both drilling and driving screws, covering a wide range of assembly and repair tasks.
Keep fasteners and adhesives on hand
A small assortment of screws, nails, wall anchors, and a strong general-purpose adhesive prevents a trip to the store for minor repairs that come up unexpectedly.
Store tools somewhere accessible
A toolkit that's buried in a hard-to-reach spot tends to go unused even when it's needed. Keeping tools in an accessible, clearly labeled box makes it more likely you'll actually use them for small fixes as they come up.