Location: Livingston County, MI | Metro: Detroit-Warren-Livonia, MI 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 | $1,220 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,350 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,130 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,470 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,865 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,209 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,466 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,639 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,540 | $312,709 | 0.49% | F |
| 3BR | $2,130 | $398,957 | 0.53% | F |
| 4BR | $2,470 | $473,669 | 0.52% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rent math in ZIP 48353, located in Hartland, MI, within the HUD Metro FMR Area of Livingston County, does not work favorably for landlords. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the zip code in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1500. In contrast, the market rent, as indicated by ZORI, stands significantly higher at $2,104. This discrepancy means that properties eligible under Section 8 may struggle to cover market costs, leading to potential financial losses for landlords.
Acquisition in this area is somewhat affordable, considering the median home value is $380,878. However, the lack of available data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of homes requiring price cuts suggests that the market dynamics for property purchases are unclear. Landlords and investors should proceed with caution, as these factors typically provide critical insights into the ease and profitability of acquiring new rental properties.
Tenant demand in ZIP 48353 is modest given the total population of 7,014 and only 3.7% being renters. This low renter share indicates that finding tenants who qualify for Section 8 and are willing to rent in this area could be challenging. With limited rental demand, landlords might face difficulties in maintaining occupancy rates and ensuring steady income from their investments.
Verdict: ZIP 48353 presents a less favorable investment scenario for landlords and small-portfolio investors due to unfavorable rent math and limited tenant demand. The significant gap between the FMR and market rent, coupled with the low percentage of renters, makes it difficult to achieve financial viability through Section 8 participation alone. While the median home value offers some affordability, the lack of clarity on market dynamics for property acquisitions adds risk to the investment. Landlords should carefully consider these factors before entering this market.
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.