Apartment hunting can be daunting, with many factors to consider before signing a lease.
Bringing a magnet along is a surprising tip that could make a significant difference.
Wisconsin native and social media influencer Mercury Stardust, also known as the Trans Handy Ma’am, shares this unconventional advice in her book, "Safe and Sound: A Renter-Friendly Guide to Home Repair".
Stardust, who has amassed over 2.5 million followers on TikTok, offers practical DIY home tips to help renters and homeowners alike.
In an interview with The Washington Post, Trans Handy Ma’am shared her magnet tip for searching for the perfect place.
She got candid about her so-called magnet tip while speaking to The Washington Post two months after her best-selling book was released last year.
Stardust emphasizes that the quality of materials used in an apartment can significantly affect your living experience. She advises using a magnet during apartment tours to test the quality of materials, particularly metals. According to Stardust, lower-grade metals used in hooks or rails will not attract a magnet, indicating poorer quality.
To test materials, simply place the magnet against metal fixtures in the apartment, she recommends the classic "knock on wood" technique.
Tap on walls and surfaces to determine their condition. If the material feels solid, you're likely dealing with better-quality construction. If it sounds hollow or flimsy, proceed with caution.
In addition to the magnet, Stardust's book outlines four essential tools for DIY household fixes:1. Multi-bit screwdriver2. Utility knife3. Adjustable pliers4. Allen keys
These tools, along with the magnet, can help renters and homeowners tackle common household repairs.
Talking to The Washington Post, Stardust reveals s the use of a magnet for finding studs in walls.
Need to hang something on the wall? The magnet comes in handy here too. To locate a stud (the sturdy part of the wall where you can securely anchor screws), follow these steps:
- Place the magnet against the wall, with a protective paper towel underneath to prevent scratches.
- Let a metal chain hang from the magnet.
- Slowly move the magnet horizontally until it connects to a metal screw or fastener.
- Voilà! You've found a stud without needing a specialized stud finder.
Additionally, Stardust stresses the importance of being able to communicate effectively with maintenance workers about necessary repairs.
Even if you're not comfortable performing repairs yourself, having the right vocabulary and understanding basic repair concepts can ensure that issues are addressed promptly and correctly.
Along with performing safety evaluations, Stardust advises apartment hunters to ask about additional parking or storage spaces and ensure these areas are well maintained.
It's crucial to identify red flags in the lease, such as excessive late fees, guest restrictions, vague security deposit terms, and waivers that release the landlord from responsibility for pre-existing issues like mold.
Mercury Stardust's practical advice, combined with essential DIY tools and effective communication strategies, can help you make informed decisions and find a safe, well-maintained apartment.
