Location: Washington County, ME | Metro: Washington County, ME
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 | $1,110 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,140 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,950 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,250 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,610 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,923 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,157 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,315 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,470 | $174,964 | 0.84% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 04657 encompasses a part of No. 14 Plantation, Maine, characterized by a small, tight-knit community with a total population of 326 residents. Only 7.5% of these residents are renters, indicating a primarily owner-occupied area. The median household income here stands at $49,191, which reflects a modest economic environment. The median home value in this region is $174,250, suggesting that homeownership is relatively affordable.
Turning to the rent economics, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area, applicable for fiscal year 2026, is set at $1,540. However, specific market rent data for ZIP 04657 is currently unavailable, making it challenging to compare the subsidized rates directly against local market conditions. This lack of precise market rent figures could be due to the low density of rental properties in the area or limited reporting.
Given the characteristics of this ZIP code, it would likely appeal more to a hands-off voucher operator rather than a hands-on value-add buyer. The high percentage of homeowners and the absence of significant rental activity suggest that there is less demand for rental properties. For an investor focused on maximizing passive income through government-subsidized programs like Section 8, this area presents a straightforward opportunity without the complexities often associated with higher-density rental markets. The modest median income also aligns well with the eligibility criteria for Section 8 tenants, ensuring a steady stream of qualified applicants. However, the potential for active property management to significantly increase property values or rental income appears limited given the predominantly owner-occupied nature of the neighborhood.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.