Location: Waushara County, WI | Metro: Waupaca County, WI
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $850 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,180 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,520 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,760 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,042 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,287 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,470 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,594 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 54965, located in Waushara County, WI, serves as a strong cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,150, which is significantly higher than the current market rent of $733. This creates a substantial positive spread of $417 per unit, enhancing the financial performance of properties in this ZIP code.
The median home value in ZIP 54965 is $293,482. However, for a Section 8 portfolio, the focus should be on rental properties rather than home values. Given that the FMR exceeds the market rent, landlords can benefit from a guaranteed income stream that is above average local rates. This makes ZIP 54965 particularly attractive for investors seeking stable, predictable cash flows.
The ZIP code's characteristics also support its role as a cash-flow anchor. With a renter share of 4.2%, the demand for rental housing is relatively low compared to other areas. However, this is balanced by the fact that the median income in the area is $60,625, indicating a moderate economic base that can support the rental market without excessive vacancy risks.
While there is no specific data provided regarding price-cut shares or days on market (DOM), the significant difference between FMR and market rent suggests that landlords are unlikely to need to lower their rents to attract tenants. This further reinforces the ZIP code's suitability as a cash-flow anchor, ensuring that rental income remains consistent and reliable over time.
In summary, ZIP 54965 is best positioned as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio due to the favorable spread between FMR and market rent. Landlords and small-portfolio investors can expect steady returns, making this ZIP code an excellent addition to a diversified investment strategy focused on long-term financial stability.
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.