Location: Tuscola County, MI | Metro: Saginaw, 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 | $790 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,566 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,754 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,894 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,989 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $233,369 | 0.43% | F |
| 3BR | $1,310 | $334,130 | 0.39% | F |
| 4BR | $1,350 | $401,405 | 0.34% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The rent math in ZIP 48734, located in Frankenmuth, MI, within the Tuscola County, MI metro area, is favorable but requires careful consideration. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the zip code in fiscal year 2024 is set at $910, while the market rent based on Census ACS data is $880. This means that landlords can charge slightly above the market rate to meet the FMR, which is beneficial for maintaining profitability.
Acquisition in this area is relatively affordable given the median home value of $316,857. The fact that the average days on market (DOM) is listed as N/A and the price-cut share is only 0.3% suggests that homes are selling quickly without significant price reductions. This indicates a stable market where homes are valued appropriately and purchased promptly, making it an attractive location for real estate investment.
Tenant demand is strong, with a total population of 7,746 and 23.1% of residents being renters. This translates to approximately 1,788 potential tenants in the area. The renter share, combined with the stable market conditions, implies that there will be consistent demand for rental properties, ensuring a steady stream of tenants for landlords.
Verdict: ZIP 48734 presents a solid opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The slight premium in FMR over market rent allows for reasonable profit margins. The median home value is affordable, and homes sell quickly without needing to be significantly discounted. With a substantial renter share, there is a reliable tenant base to support rental investments. However, landlords should ensure their rental offerings align closely with the FMR to maximize returns and maintain compliance with housing standards.
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.