Location: Lenawee County, MI | Metro: Lenawee County, MI
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 | $1,050 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,150 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,510 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,900 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,980 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,297 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,573 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,779 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,918 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,150 | $240,850 | 0.48% | F |
| 2BR | $1,510 | $312,508 | 0.48% | F |
| 3BR | $1,900 | $397,254 | 0.48% | F |
| 4BR | $1,980 | $569,943 | 0.35% | F |
| 5BR | $2,297 | $704,000 | 0.33% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 49253, Manitou Beach, MI, is set at $1,060 for the fiscal year 2026. This figure represents the payment standard under the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, meaning that if you participate in this program, the government will pay up to $1,060 per month for a rental unit in this area.
However, it's important to note that this does not necessarily reflect the typical market rent in the area. According to recent Census American Community Survey (ACS) data, the average rent in ZIP 49253 is $1,263. This suggests that the actual rent you might charge could be higher than the Section 8 payment standard, which can sometimes lead to a shortfall that tenants must make up themselves.
Looking at the demand side, renters make up 5.6% of the population in this ZIP code. This indicates a relatively stable but modest demand for rental properties. While this percentage is low compared to urban areas, it still translates into a viable tenant pool, especially for those seeking housing assistance through Section 8.
In terms of investment, the median home value in ZIP 49253 is approximately $303,888. This figure gives you an idea of the potential acquisition cost for a property suitable for Section 8 tenancy. It’s crucial to consider not just the purchase price but also ongoing maintenance costs, insurance, and property taxes when evaluating the overall financial feasibility of your investment.
Before you decide to enter the Section 8 market in Manitou Beach, verify that your property meets all the required standards. The Housing Quality Standards (HQS) set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) must be met to ensure safety and habitability. This includes items such as ensuring there are no lead-based paint hazards, proper heating, and functional plumbing. A thorough inspection can save you time and money in the long run, ensuring compliance and avoiding potential disputes with the housing authority.
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.