Location: Mackinac County, MI | Metro: Luce County, MI
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,636 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,832 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,979 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,078 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Mackinac County, MI metro, specifically ZIP 49853, presents a unique opportunity within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This area should be considered a cash-flow anchor. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 49853 in fiscal year 2026 is set at $970, while the current market rent stands at $744. This creates a significant spread of $226 per month, which is beneficial for landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to stabilize their cash flow.
The median home value in ZIP 49853 is $169,528, indicating that property values are relatively low compared to other regions. This makes it easier for investors to acquire properties without a substantial initial capital outlay. Additionally, the lower market rents mean that the cost of maintaining occupancy is also minimized, further enhancing the cash flow stability of the portfolio.
While there are no specific percentages given for price-cut share or days on market (DOM), the lack of these figures suggests that the market in ZIP 49853 is stable and less prone to rapid fluctuations. A stable market can be advantageous for long-term investment strategies, particularly those focused on consistent cash flow.
The median income in ZIP 49853 is $54,563, and the renter share is 11.6%. These figures suggest that there is a reasonable demand for rental properties, but the primary focus for ZIP 49853 should remain on cash flow rather than appreciation or diversification. Given the substantial difference between the FMR and the market rent, landlords can rely on Section 8 payments to cover the gap and ensure steady, predictable income.
In conclusion, ZIP 49853 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio strategy due to the favorable spread between the FMR and market rent, stable property values, and consistent demand for rental housing. This allows investors to secure reliable monthly income with minimal risk of vacancy or default.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.