Location: Cumberland County, 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 | $1,670 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,400 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,960 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,150 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,654 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,092 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,419 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,640 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $2,400 | $491,276 | 0.49% | F |
| 3BR | $2,960 | $671,967 | 0.44% | F |
| 4BR | $3,150 | $835,437 | 0.38% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate market in ZIP 04097, North Yarmouth, ME, currently stands at a median home value of $690,005. This figure, combined with the absence of any significant percentage of listings being reduced and an unspecified median days on market (DOM), suggests that the market remains stable without strong downward pressure on prices. Landlords and small-portfolio investors can maintain their pricing power over the next 12-24 months, as there's no indication of a rapid increase in supply or a decline in demand that would necessitate price reductions.
On the rental side, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 04097 is set at $2030 for fiscal year 2024, which contrasts with the current market average of $1,708 according to the Census ACS. This gap signals potential upward pressure on rents, especially if the market aligns with the FMR guidance. Investors should anticipate gradual rent increases, driven by the higher FMR threshold, which could lead to improved cash flows over the coming period.
For long-term hold investors, the data implies a moderate appreciation thesis. The stability in home values and the potential for rent growth indicate that while rapid capital appreciation may not be imminent, steady increases are likely. This scenario supports a buy-and-hold strategy, where the primary focus is on generating consistent rental income supplemented by slow but steady property value growth.
To summarize, the current setup in North Yarmouth, ME, supports maintaining current prices and gradually increasing rents. The median home value and rental market dynamics suggest a favorable environment for long-term investments, with a realistic expectation of modest appreciation and improved rental yields.
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.