Location: Flint, MI | Metro: Flint, MI 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 | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,682 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,884 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,035 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,137 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $24,025 | 4.2% | A+ |
| 3BR | $1,250 | $33,420 | 3.74% | A+ |
| 4BR | $1,450 | $36,300 | 3.99% | A+ |
| 5BR | $1,682 | $37,252 | 4.52% | A+ |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 48505 in Flint, MI, presents a unique real estate investment scenario when analyzed through the lens of Section 8 yields and market stability. Based on the data provided, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 48505 is $950 for fiscal year 2024, compared to the local market rent of $925. This indicates a slight premium for Section 8 properties, making it a potentially high-yield area for landlords participating in the program.
The median home value in ZIP 48505 is $35,011, which is significantly lower than typical home values in many other parts of the country. This low home value suggests a market where flipping homes could be challenging due to limited upside potential. Instead, the focus should be on the rental market, where the 51.7% rental rate provides a stable demand base.
Stability is further influenced by the average daily days on market (DOM), which is not available for ZIP 48505. However, the median household income of $33,283 aligns closely with the FMR, indicating that tenants are likely to struggle with rent increases outside of the Section 8 subsidy. Therefore, the market leans towards steady cash flow rather than rapid appreciation or high turnover.
In summary, ZIP 48505 is best classified as a steady-cashflow zone. The slightly higher FMR for Section 8 properties ($950) compared to the market rent ($925) offers a modest yield advantage. However, the low median home value ($35,011) and median income ($33,283) suggest a market where quick flips are less likely to succeed. Instead, landlords should focus on long-term rentals to benefit from consistent demand and avoid speculative risks.
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.