Location: Chouteau County, MT | Metro: Great Falls, MT MSA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,230 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,240 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,620 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,240 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,450 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,842 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,183 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,438 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,610 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP code 59440, located in Chouteau County, Montana, is a strong candidate for inclusion in a Section 8 portfolio strategy as a cash-flow anchor. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 59440 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $980, which provides a reliable baseline for rental income. While specific market data such as median home values and median incomes are not available, the FMR figure ensures that landlords can count on steady, predictable cash flow from tenants participating in the Section 8 program.
The role of a cash-flow anchor in a real estate investment portfolio is crucial for maintaining financial stability. In ZIP 59440, the FMR of $980 offers a guaranteed rent amount that can be relied upon even if other investments experience fluctuations in income. This makes the ZIP an ideal location for properties aimed at long-term, stable returns rather than short-term gains or rapid appreciation.
Additionally, with a renter share of 43.8%, there is a significant demand for rental housing in ZIP 59440. Although this could also suggest the ZIP might serve as a diversifier, the primary focus should remain on its capacity as a cash-flow anchor due to the lack of data supporting rapid appreciation or low days on market (DOM).
In conclusion, ZIP 59440 is best positioned as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The $980 FMR for fiscal year 2024 guarantees a consistent income stream, which is essential for any landlord or small-portfolio investor seeking stability and reliability in their investment returns.
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.