Location: Putnam County, GA | Metro: Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, 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 | $1,190 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,240 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,610 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,190 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,540 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,845 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,073 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,227 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,350 | $284,978 | 0.47% | F |
| 3BR | $1,610 | $408,015 | 0.39% | F |
| 4BR | $2,190 | $566,916 | 0.39% | F |
| 5BR | $2,540 | $701,467 | 0.36% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 30650, located in Madison, GA, within the Putnam County metro area, serves as a strong cash-flow anchor for a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for a one-bedroom unit in this ZIP code for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1360. This figure stands significantly above the current market rent of $1,142, indicating a positive spread that benefits landlords participating in the Section 8 program.
The median home value in ZIP 30650 is $443,040. This high median home value suggests that the area is relatively stable and less prone to sudden drops in property values, which is crucial for maintaining long-term investment security. Additionally, the low price-cut share of 0.2% and the non-applicable day DOM (Days on Market) indicate that homes in this area sell quickly at or near their asking price, reducing the risk of prolonged vacancies and associated losses.
While the renter share is notable at 25.4%, and the median income of $71,599 is solid, these factors do not outweigh the significant advantages of the cash-flow anchor role that ZIP 30650 plays. The guaranteed rent from the Section 8 program, coupled with the higher-than-market FMR rates, ensures steady and predictable income streams for landlords. Furthermore, the quick sale dynamics and stability of home values reduce the risks typically associated with rental investments.
In conclusion, ZIP 30650 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The $218 monthly spread between the FMR and the market rent provides a tangible financial benefit, while the robust median home value and efficient real estate market offer additional layers of security and stability.
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.