| Unit Size | FY 2026 FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio (0 Bedroom) | $1,410 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,590 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,040 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,480 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,700 |
Location: Cumberland County, ME
Metro Area: Cumberland County, ME (part) HUD Metro FMR Area
Explore Section 8 payment standards in neighboring areas:
Cities Covered: This ZIP code covers Raymond, Limerick, New Gloucester.
FMR Rates (FY 2026):
Studio: $1,410 | 1BR: $1,590 | 2BR: $2,040 | 3BR: $2,480 | 4BR: $2,700
Median Property Prices & 1% Rule Analysis:
Market Overview: The 04071 ZIP code is a relatively affluent area with a mix of young professionals (35%), long-time residents (30%), and service-industry workers (35%). Vacancy rates remain tight at 2-3%, and rents have risen 4-6% year-over-year, driven by steady job growth in nearby employment centers. The area has seen consistent population growth over the past decade, making it a stable market with moderate appreciation potential. Cash-flow stability depends heavily on maintaining quality tenants and keeping properties well-maintained to command premium rents.
Investment Takeaway: Purchase prices in the $300-400k range allow gross rents to approach the 1% rule for well-selected properties. Cash-flow investors can target 7-9% gross yield on 2BR units in the $280-350k segment, with the best returns coming from turnkey rentals or light rehabs that can command top-tier rents ($1,600+ for 2BR). Long-term investors should prioritize properties near major employers and established neighborhoods with stable occupancy. Budget 10-12% of purchase price annually for maintenance, property taxes, and vacancy reserves to ensure positive cash flow.
Key Considerations: This is primarily a cash-flow market with moderate appreciation potential (3-5% annually). Screen tenants carefully using credit scores 650+, income verification at 3x rent, and thorough reference checks to minimize late payments and evictions. Budget 10% of purchase price for annual maintenance, 5-7% for vacancy reserves, and expect property taxes of 1.8-2.2% of assessed value. Late or unpaid rent is the dominant risk in this market, so tenant quality trumps cosmetic upgrades.