Location: Portland, ME | Metro: Portland, ME HUD Metro FMR Area
Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,500 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,710 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,160 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,660 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,840 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,294 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,689 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,984 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,183 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,710 | $348,922 | 0.49% | F |
| 2BR | $2,160 | $414,384 | 0.52% | F |
| 3BR | $2,660 | $485,172 | 0.55% | F |
| 4BR | $2,840 | $569,728 | 0.5% | F |
| 5BR | $3,294 | $690,473 | 0.48% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate market in Standish, Maine (ZIP 04084), presents a nuanced scenario for both short-term and long-term investors. The median home value stands at $465,483, indicating a stable residential property environment. With only 0.1% of listings experiencing price reductions, it's evident that sellers maintain significant pricing power. This suggests that for the next 12 to 24 months, there will be little pressure on sellers to lower their asking prices, as demand remains steady relative to supply.
The median days on market (DOM) being listed as 'N/A' implies that either the market is highly efficient, with homes selling quickly, or there is insufficient data to provide an accurate average. In the context of minimal price reductions, the former is likely more accurate. Homes selling swiftly without needing to reduce prices further underscores the seller's advantage in the current market.
On the rental side, the Forward Monthly Rent (FMR) for ZIP 04084 in fiscal year 2024 is projected at $1,690, whereas the current market rent is reported at $961. This substantial gap highlights a potential opportunity for investors looking to capitalize on the rental market. However, it also signals a possible correction in market rents towards the FMR level, which could impact the immediate profitability of rental properties but would likely stabilize over time.
For long-hold investors, the setup in Standish implies a cautious approach to appreciation expectations. While the median home value suggests stability, the limited data on DOM and the small percentage of price reductions indicate a balanced market rather than one poised for rapid growth. Appreciation is likely to follow historical trends, which have been modest, unless broader economic factors or local developments significantly alter the landscape.
In summary, the current market conditions in Standish favor sellers and suggest a robust position for those holding onto properties for the long term. Rental investors can expect a gradual increase in market rents aligning with the FMR, providing a steady income stream. However, the data does not support aggressive expectations for capital appreciation beyond the established norms.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). Demographics from U.S. Census (2024).
About FMR: Fair Market Rent (FMR) is used to determine payment standards for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, initial renewal rents for some expiring project-based Section 8 contracts, and rent ceilings for HOME Investment Partnerships.