Location: Hancock County, IA | Metro: Cerro Gordo County, IA
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 | $880 |
| 1 Bedroom | $880 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,090 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,750 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,030 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,274 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,456 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,579 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,430 | $319,792 | 0.45% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate market in ZIP code 50482 presents a nuanced landscape that both landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider carefully. With a median home value at $302,853, the area has established itself as a middle-tier market, neither among the most expensive nor the least. The absence of percentage data on listings being reduced and the median days on market (DOM) suggests stability in the housing market, indicating that sellers are not feeling pressured to lower their prices and homes are selling within a reasonable timeframe.
This stability signals a balanced market where neither buyers nor sellers hold significant pricing power. Landlords can expect to maintain rental rates close to the current market average without facing major challenges in tenant acquisition or retention. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is projected at $1,100, slightly above the current market rate of $1,077. This indicates a potential upward trend in rental prices, aligning with broader economic forecasts and the general cost of living increases.
For long-term investors, the setup points toward a moderate appreciation thesis. The slight gap between the FMR and the current market rent suggests that rental income could see gradual growth, benefiting those who hold properties for extended periods. However, the lack of significant DOM trends and reduced listings percentages implies that rapid appreciation is unlikely. Instead, investors should anticipate steady, albeit modest, gains in property value over the next 12-24 months.
In summary, ZIP 50482 offers a stable environment for real estate investment, with indications of mild growth in both home values and rental incomes. Landlords and investors should be prepared for a slow but steady increase in returns, making it a suitable choice for those seeking low-risk, long-term investments.
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.