Location: Thurston County, NE | Metro: Burt County, NE
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 | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $890 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,566 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,754 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,894 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,989 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $199,101 | 0.51% | F |
| 3BR | $1,340 | $272,621 | 0.49% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
In ZIP code 68004, the real estate landscape is marked by a median home value of $239,083. This figure, combined with the absence of significant reductions in listing prices and a median days on market (DOM) that is not provided but likely indicates stable demand, suggests that landlords and small-portfolio investors can maintain strong pricing power over the next 12 to 24 months. The lack of price reductions implies that sellers are not feeling pressured to lower their asking prices, which is indicative of a balanced or seller-friendly market.
The rental market provides additional insight into the area's real estate dynamics. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is projected at $970, while the current market rent stands at $833 according to Census ACS data. This gap between projected FMR and actual market rent signals potential upward pressure on rents in the coming years. Landlords can expect to see modest increases in rental income, aligning with the expected rise in FMR, thus enhancing the cash flow potential for properties held in this ZIP code.
For long-term investors looking beyond immediate rental income, the setup in ZIP 68004 offers a realistic appreciation thesis. The stability in home values and the anticipated growth in rental rates suggest that property values are likely to appreciate in tandem with rising rents. While precise figures are not available, the trend towards higher rents typically correlates with increased property values as demand for housing rises and tenants seek to purchase homes rather than rent them. This dynamic supports the idea that long-hold investors can anticipate gradual appreciation in their real estate assets, contributing to overall portfolio growth.
The combination of a stable median home value, a non-reducing listing trend, and a growing rental market points to a favorable environment for both rental income and capital appreciation. Investors should focus on maintaining competitive rental rates and keeping properties in good condition to maximize returns. The data implies a setup where landlords and investors can hold firm on pricing and see positive outcomes over the medium term.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.