Handyman Matters
Handyman Matters offers high-quality repair and maintenance services for residential and commercial properties through its ACE HANDYMAN SERVICES brand. Known for simplifying home service operations with technology, this franchise provides a straightforward path to entrepreneurship in the construction and home services industry.
Handyman Matters franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total initial investment necessary to begin operation of an AHS Business is estimated at $132,200 to $226,000. This includes $70,000 to $100,000 that must be paid to the franchisor or an affiliate [p.1].
What is the initial franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee for a single AHS Business franchise is $70,000 for a Territory size up to 70,000 households. For each additional household beyond 70,000 but not exceeding 100,000 households, the fee increases by $1.00 per household [p.15]. This fee is non-refundable once paid [p.78, p.16, p.172].
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
The franchisee must pay a continuing royalty fee equal to 6 percent of their Gross Revenues, subject to annual reconciliation based on Minimum Annual Gross Revenues [p.90]. Additionally, minimum payments for royalties or advertising funds are mandatory regardless of sales levels, with failure to meet these could result in charges based on the Minimum Annual Gross Revenues instead of actual revenues [p.4].
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
The term of the initial franchise agreement isn't specified in the excerpts. However, you have the option to renew your franchise rights for one additional term of 10 years by acquiring successor franchise rights, provided certain conditions are met [p.75].
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
This isn't specified in the excerpts. The provided FDD sections do not detail the process or requirements for selling or transferring a franchise. However, they indicate that the franchisor (AHF) has the discretion to transfer its obligations under the agreement [p.103] and may sell assets including the Marks or System without your consent [p.103].
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
The franchisor can terminate the agreement if your actual Gross Revenues are less than the applicable Minimum Annual Gross Revenue for two consecutive operating years, or in any three operating years during the term of your Franchise Agreement [p.39]. Additionally, the franchisor has the right to terminate the agreement in the event of a force majeure event that continues for six consecutive months or longer and prevents them from performing their obligations [p.109].
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
This isn't specified in the excerpts. The FDD does not provide specific financial requirements for qualifying as a franchisee regarding personal net worth or liquid capital. However, it does mention that if the franchisor's most recent financial statements are unaudited and show a net worth of less than $100,000, they may arrange for the escrow of funds until obligations are fulfilled [p.6].
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
Yes, you are granted a protected territory [p.76], which consists of one or more designated geographical boundaries containing approximately the number of households specified in the Addendum. However, this territory is not exclusive, as other franchisees can operate within the same general area [p.40].
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides an initial business training program [p.78, p.37] that may be conducted in-person or virtually via video conference [p.245]. Additionally, the franchisor may conduct additional meetings, seminars, conventions, and training programs from time to time for the benefit of all franchisees [p.79], though attendance is not required more than once every 24 months except for annual conventions or regional training programs [p.79]. The franchisor also offers training if deemed necessary by them or requested by the franchisee, with associated costs borne by the franchisee [p.38, p.37]. This isn't specified in the excerpts regarding detailed ongoing support beyond these training sessions and meetings.
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
As of December 31, 2025, there were 383 franchised Territories in operation. Additionally, 26 total Territories, operated by 22 Operators, that closed during the year 2025 are not included in this count. None of these closed Territories or Operators are included in ITEM 19 [p.50].
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
The franchisor may share actual records of existing outlets with prospective franchisees considering a purchase [p.49]. Additionally, the franchisor can provide supplementary information about possible performance at specific locations or under particular circumstances, but this must have a reasonable basis and be included in the Disclosure Document [p.49]. The franchisor is also authorized to use financial statements and other reports submitted by franchisees to prepare earnings claims and share such information with other franchisees [p.101]. However, the franchisor does not make any financial performance representations or projections of future income unless based on actual records from an existing outlet [p.60].
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You are not specifically restricted to selling any particular items, but you may have to purchase certain supplies from vendors approved by the franchisor or from Ace Hardware when items are in stock and competitively priced. For other items, you can source them from local hardware stores, big box outlets, and other sources [p.46].