Mercury Stardust, a Wisconsin native and TikTok influencer known as the Trans Handy Ma’am, advises apartment hunters to bring a magnet when evaluating potential rental homes. Stardust, who has over 2.5 million followers, shared this tip in her book "Safe and Sound: A Renter-Friendly Guide to Home Repair," published in August 2023.
In an interview with The Washington Post, Stardust explained that a magnet helps determine the quality of materials in apartment walls; lower-grade metals won't attract the magnet. Having rented for nearly 20 years and worked as a maintenance worker, Stardust leverages her experience to assist others in making informed decisions about their living spaces.
Her book, a New York Times Best Seller, outlines essential tools for DIY projects, including a multi-bit screwdriver, utility knife, adjustable pliers, and Allen keys. The magnet can also be used to locate metal screws in walls for various DIY tasks, potentially saving the cost of a stud finder.
Moreover, Stardust stresses the importance of understanding lease agreements, identifying red flags such as high late fees or limitations on guests, and communicating effectively with landlords about repairs.