A house is like a home with dozens of things that constantly need fastening, adjusting, caulking, and cake-frosting removing. Today's Groupon stocks a homeowner's tool belt: for $10, you get $20 worth of goods and services at Ace Hardware. Choose from eight locations: Downtown, Clairemont, Hillcrest, La Jolla, Del Mar/Carmel Valley, Pt. Loma/Liberty Station, Rancho Bernardo, or Encinitas.

Pick up a Steel Grip six-piece screwdriver set for $8.49, a VPT rip hammer for $6.29, and a whole bunch of screws, anchors, and bolts (prices vary), and you'll be ready to finally mount every buffalo nickel and steel penny in your coin collection. Illuminate the newfound décor with a 12-pack of Ace light bulbs ($21.48), the better to see by as you make use of a Purdy four-piece premium paint-tray kit ($19.99). If you need to match paint to a favorite coverlet or choose a hue that complements a pleather recliner, most stores offer a paint-matching service free of charge. Get keys made, or clean a barnacle-encrusted carpet with the help of a rented carpet-cleaning machine (inquire about pricing at your preferred location).

Whatever the project may be, Ace Hardware carries the wares and professional guidance to get the home-improvement wheel running without unexpected leaks or squeaking noises. Top-drawer customer service, an enormous stock of supplies for all occasions, and competitive prices make Ace the place that houses dream about when they begin having existential crises.

Stock and prices may vary at the different locations. Call ahead if you're looking for a particular product.

Reviews

Three Yelpers award the Meanly & Son La Jolla location of Ace a perfect five-star rating. The Downtown location received a 4.5-star average, as did the Hillcrest and Liberty Station locations.

• The ultimate neighborhood store. Well staffed, so there is always someone to answer your questions. Well priced, so it doesn't hurt to shop here. Well stocked with an amazing selection and variety of goods. – Ash A.
• They've had everything I've needed so far, even the most obscure, and you aren't in there more than 3 minutes before someone offers a hand finding things. Great hardware store. – Sameer S.