Location: Grant County, IN | Metro: Blackford County, IN
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 | $760 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,030 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,510 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,752 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,962 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,119 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,225 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,030 | $73,572 | 1.4% | A |
| 3BR | $1,350 | $118,400 | 1.14% | B |
| 4BR | $1,510 | $186,052 | 0.81% | C |
| 5BR | $1,752 | $230,560 | 0.76% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate landscape in Marion, Indiana (ZIP 46953), suggests a balanced market with implications for both pricing power and investment strategies. The median home value stands at $107,747, indicating an affordable housing environment that can attract first-time buyers and investors looking for entry-level properties. With only 0.2% of listings reducing their prices, there's a strong signal that sellers have maintained a firm grip on their pricing, reflecting a resilient seller’s market.
The median days on market (DOM) being listed as 'N/A' might suggest a rapid turnover rate, where homes are selling quickly upon listing. This scenario supports the notion of stable pricing power, as it indicates a high demand for available properties. However, it also leaves room for uncertainty regarding the exact time frame homes take to sell, which could be crucial for inventory management and setting realistic expectations for sale timelines.
On the rental side, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) projected for fiscal year 2026 is $970, while the current market rent (ZORI) is $806. This gap suggests potential upward pressure on rental rates as the market moves towards aligning with the FMR. Landlords and small-portfolio investors should prepare for gradual increases in rental income, which can improve cash flow and overall investment returns.
For long-term investors, the setup in Marion implies a cautious approach to capital appreciation. While the current data does not indicate robust appreciation, the stability in home values and the potential for rental rate growth offer a solid foundation for maintaining asset value and generating income. The low percentage of price reductions and the current rental rates hint at a market that is steady but not poised for significant growth in the immediate future.
In summary, the median home value, the minimal percentage of price reductions, and the potential for rental rate increases paint a picture of a market that offers moderate stability. Investors should focus on the income-generating potential of their properties rather than expecting substantial capital gains. This analysis is anchored in the specific figures provided, offering a clear view of the current real estate dynamics without resorting to speculative predictions.
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.