5 Things under $5 that are always in my tool box

Over the years, I have looked for ways to make my properties appealing and robust while on a budget.  A loose screen flapping in the wind or cracked bathroom grout can scream "cheap" to your interested renters and potentially fetch lower rents.  With a little time and a few tools you can create a better product offering and own a quality property that nets higher monies.

5 Things Under $5 that are always in my tool box...

1)  Door Knob Wall Protector (Approx. $2.90) - this round, self adhesive piece of plastic has saved a lot of walls in my rentals!  Put one on the wall where the knob would likely impact the wall and show you pay attention to details.  These handy plates are often paintable and you can drill a hole in them too.  I have used them to cover up worn out cabinet drawer fronts and inserted the hardward thru it.  Looks stylish and solves a problem... get your thrift on!

2)  Screen Installation Tool (Approx. $2.43) - When a screen comes loose and needs to be reattached, this tool makes it simple.  No need to call a handyman, just run this tool along the joint of the screen pushing in the rubber gasket.  Make sure the screening is under the gasket.  Viola!  Like new and it only cost you $2.43, you thrifty animal!

3)  Plastic Drain Stick (Approx. $2.55) - Probably my fav!  Got a clogged drain?  Do NOT call the plumber, try this miracle tool first.  Stuff the spiky stick into the tub or sink drain as far as it will go and then yank it back out.  The fishbone design drags the built up hair and gook out of your pipes.  You may need to do it a few times to get it all out and warning: the slimy muck won't be pretty.  But you saved yourself a service call!

4)  Caulk (Approx. $2.97) - Geez, the problems this little tube can fix are endless.  Besides the usual tub and tile issues, you can squeeze a bead of this sticky sealer on many things to make them nice again.  I like to use it as a filler for when the baseboards have a gap from the wall or when the window sill has a gouge or even for some nail holes.  Just squeeze and then run your finger along the caulk.  It's easy to work with and wipes off immediately with a wet cloth if you make a mistake.   My preference is for the paintable version that comes in a squeezable tube.  Choose white or clear and start sealing.

5)  Spray Paint (Approx. $3.86) - We all know that curb appeal is important and a rusty mailbox or weathered hand rail can make your place appear run down and unkept.  With a can of gloss spray paint you can give a like-new coat of beauty.  I like to spray the mailbox of all my properties including the post to give it that 'loved' look.  Don't have enough in your budget for new cabinet pulls?  Take them off and spray them, you won't believe how much they look like metal when you use a metallic spray.  Speaking of cabinets, I've been known to spray the inside of the cases with white primer and paint to spruce them up.  Watch some Youtube video on spraying methods so you avoid those drippy lines.  The 2x coverage products seem to work best for me and withstand the brutal Florida summers for my exterior projects. 

With about $15 in supplies, you can save money, improve your property and attract the desirable renters/buyers you deserve.  Grab your 20 bucks and head to the hardware store, its time to load your tool box.  

(Comment below your most useful toolbox item... other than duct tape!)

That Thrifty Chick,

Missy