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 | $820 |
| 1 Bedroom | $980 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,180 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,680 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,949 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,183 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,358 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,476 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,180 | $149,067 | 0.79% | D |
| 3BR | $1,450 | $203,959 | 0.71% | D |
| 4BR | $1,680 | $263,213 | 0.64% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors targeting ZIP 48519 in Burton, Michigan, within the Genesee County and Flint, MI MSA, reveals a favorable environment for rental properties. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 is set at $1150, which is significantly higher than the market rent of $939 reported by the Census ACS. This difference allows voucher tenants to cashflow comfortably at the FMR rate, ensuring steady income for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
To further understand the economic landscape, consider the median home value in the area, which stands at $183,286. Using this figure, we can calculate a rent-to-price ratio that indicates how much it would cost to rent versus buy a property. Given the FMR of $1150, the annual rent is approximately $13,800. This results in a rent-to-price ratio of about 7.5%, suggesting that renting is more economical compared to purchasing a home in this region.
The dynamics between renting and buying also influence the decision-making process for investors. With a median Days on Market (DOM) and price-cut share being noted as N/A, it's important to focus on the core metrics of cashflow and stability. The strong cashflow potential derived from the HUD FMR exceeding the market rent makes this ZIP code particularly attractive for investors seeking reliable returns.
In conclusion, the strongest investor angle in ZIP 48519 is the cashflow potential, given the substantial gap between the HUD FMR and the actual market rent. This ensures that properties can be rented profitably without the need for premium units, providing a stable and lucrative investment opportunity.
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.