Location: Saunders County, NE | Metro: Saunders County, NE HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $1,030 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,130 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,720 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,070 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,401 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,689 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,904 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,049 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,720 | $233,120 | 0.74% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
A skeptical investor might question whether the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,080 for ZIP 68015 in fiscal year 2024 will sufficiently cover the mortgage on a home priced at $261,308. To address this, we must consider that the FMR is set to ensure affordability and typically covers a portion of the mortgage, property taxes, insurance, and maintenance costs. For a home in this price range, assuming a standard 4% interest rate on a 30-year fixed mortgage, the monthly payment would be approximately $1,275. This means the FMR does not fully cover the mortgage payment, leaving a shortfall of around $195 per month.
The second objection concerns the renter demand in ZIP 68015, which stands at 9.8%. This percentage indicates the share of households that are renters. However, it's important to note that while this figure is relatively low, it still represents a significant number of potential tenants. A lower rental rate could mean less competition among landlords but also fewer overall renters. Yet, the demand for affordable housing remains steady, and the FMR is designed to meet this need. Landlords should focus on attracting these specific renters by offering quality, affordable units.
Lastly, an investor might wonder if Housing Choice Vouchers will keep up with the market rents of $1,056. The voucher program aims to provide assistance that matches the local rental market conditions. While the exact amount can vary based on individual circumstances, the general trend is for vouchers to increase annually to reflect inflation and changes in the cost of living. However, the data does not specify the average voucher amount for ZIP 68015. Therefore, it's crucial for landlords to stay informed about local adjustments to the voucher program to ensure they receive adequate compensation.
In summary, while the FMR of $1,080 may not fully cover the mortgage on a $261,308 home, it still provides a substantial base income. The 9.8% rental rate suggests a niche market that requires targeted strategies, and although the voucher system generally adjusts to market conditions, specific figures for ZIP 68015 are needed to make a definitive assessment.
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.