Location: Putnam County, OH | Metro: Toledo, OH MSA
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 | $850 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,060 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,750 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,030 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,274 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,456 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,579 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,060 | $133,771 | 0.79% | D |
| 3BR | $1,420 | $197,910 | 0.72% | D |
| 4BR | $1,750 | $204,377 | 0.86% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 43516, located in Deshler, Ohio, encompasses a modest-sized neighborhood with a population of 2,789 residents. Only 16.0% of these residents are renters, indicating a predominantly owner-occupied community. The area enjoys a relatively high median household income of $89,000, which suggests a stable economic environment where most families can afford their living expenses without significant financial strain. The median home value in this ZIP code stands at $177,038, reflecting an affordable housing market that is attractive to both first-time buyers and long-term homeowners.
From an investment standpoint, the rent economics in Deshler, OH provide an interesting perspective. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 43516 as of the fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,010. This figure contrasts sharply with the actual market rent, which according to the Census American Community Survey (ACS), averages around $795. This discrepancy highlights a potential opportunity for landlords and investors who can leverage the higher FMR to attract tenants eligible for Section 8 housing vouchers, thereby securing a more predictable and stable rental income.
The question then arises: does this area suit a hands-off voucher operator or a hands-on value-add buyer? Given the low percentage of renters and the relatively high median income, it is likely that a hands-off approach would be less effective. The community's preference for ownership and its financial stability suggest that tenants might have other options outside of subsidized housing. Therefore, a hands-on strategy, focused on enhancing property values and improving tenant satisfaction, would be more suitable. By investing in property upgrades and management services, a landlord or investor could create a competitive advantage, making their properties more desirable in a market where many residents prefer to own rather than rent.
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.