Location: Polk County, GA | Metro: Haralson County, GA 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 | $840 |
| 1 Bedroom | $840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,100 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,937 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,169 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,343 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,460 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,100 | $217,814 | 0.51% | F |
| 3BR | $1,340 | $285,212 | 0.47% | F |
| 4BR | $1,670 | $387,015 | 0.43% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP 30113, located in Buchanan, Georgia, within the Polk County metro area, reveals several key points that are crucial for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The first question addresses whether the rent math works. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the zip code in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1170, whereas the Census ACS reports a market rent of $901. This indicates that the FMR exceeds the market rent by $269, suggesting that landlords can potentially charge higher rents than the current market average, aligning with government guidelines.
Regarding the affordability of acquisition, the median home value in ZIP 30113 is $278,761. With no available data on days on market (DOM) and a low 0.3% price-cut share, it suggests that homes are generally selling without significant discounts and within a reasonable timeframe, making acquisitions relatively straightforward and predictable in cost.
The third point examines tenant demand. ZIP 30113 has a total population of 6,103, with 24.6% being renters. This means there are approximately 1,498 potential tenants in the area, indicating a moderate level of demand for rental properties.
In conclusion, ZIP 30113 presents a balanced opportunity for real estate investment. The discrepancy between the FMR and market rent allows for potential revenue increases, while the stable home values and low price-cut share indicate a manageable acquisition cost. The moderate tenant demand, represented by over 1,400 renters, supports the viability of rental investments in the area. However, investors should consider the size of the market relative to their portfolio needs before committing to this location.
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.