Location: Muscatine County, IA | Metro: Muscatine 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 | $820 |
| 1 Bedroom | $870 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,100 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,320 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,630 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,891 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,118 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,287 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,401 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,320 | $279,391 | 0.47% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The potential risks for landlords investing in Section 8 properties in ZIP code 52749 are significant. First, consider tenant turnover. While the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area stands at $1,080, the local market rent is not available, suggesting that tenants might be less inclined to stay long-term if they find better deals elsewhere. This can lead to frequent changes in occupancy, which are costly and time-consuming.
Vacancy exposure is another critical concern. The average days on market (DOM) is not provided, but it's crucial to understand that a higher DOM indicates a longer period where the property remains unoccupied, leading to lost rental income. In ZIP 52749, landlords must be prepared for periods when their units might sit vacant, especially if the local housing market is competitive.
Deferred maintenance poses a substantial threat. With a typical home value of $272,118 and a median household income of $103,424, residents may struggle to afford necessary repairs and maintenance, particularly if they rely on the limited funds available through Section 8 vouchers. This financial strain can result in properties deteriorating over time, requiring significant investments from landlords to keep them habitable and up to code.
However, these risks are tempered by the fact that 4.4% of the population are renters, indicating a relatively high concentration of potential voucher holders. High renter density often correlates with higher demand for affordable housing, making Section 8 vouchers more attractive to tenants who cannot afford market rates. This demand can help mitigate some of the risks associated with vacancy and turnover.
In conclusion, the investment risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord in ZIP 52749 is moderate. While there are notable challenges, the presence of a sizeable renter population provides a foundation for steady demand, balancing out the risks.
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.