Location: Sauk County, WI | Metro: Juneau County, WI
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $910 |
| 1 Bedroom | $940 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,480 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,600 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,856 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,079 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,245 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,357 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The potential pitfalls of investing in Section 8 properties in ZIP code 53944 are significant. Tenant turnover is a critical concern, as the market rent stands at $1,142 compared to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,100 for fiscal year 2026. This difference suggests that tenants might struggle to afford the higher market rates, leading to frequent moves and increased vacancy periods. Vacancy exposure is another issue, with the days on market (DOM) being listed as N/A, which implies that there is no reliable data on how long it takes for a property to be rented out. This uncertainty can lead to extended periods without rental income, affecting cash flow and financial stability.
Deferred maintenance is also a risk factor. With an average home value of $288,180 and a median household income of $72,614, homeowners in this area may find it challenging to keep up with necessary repairs and upgrades. This can result in properties becoming less desirable over time, potentially leading to higher turnover rates and increased maintenance costs for landlords.
However, these risks must be weighed against the high concentration of renters in the area. The renter share is 16.3%, indicating a substantial population that relies on rental housing. High renter density typically correlates with higher demand for housing vouchers, such as Section 8. Given the economic conditions and the need for affordable housing, there is likely to be a steady stream of voucher holders seeking rental units, which can mitigate some of the risks associated with tenant turnover and vacancy.
In conclusion, despite the challenges posed by tenant turnover, vacancy exposure, and deferred maintenance, the high renter share makes ZIP 53944 a moderate risk area for a first-time Section 8 landlord. The presence of many renters and the availability of housing vouchers provide a buffer against prolonged vacancies and financial instability.
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.