Location: Gage County, NE | Metro: Gage 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 | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,590 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,844 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,065 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,230 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,342 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $78,842 | 1.28% | A |
| 3BR | $1,210 | $138,533 | 0.87% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 68466, located in Wymore, NE, within the Gage County, NE metro area, serves as an ideal 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 $960, which is significantly higher than the local market rent of $660. This $300 difference ensures that properties in this ZIP code will generate a consistent positive cash flow when rented under the Section 8 program.
The median home value in ZIP 68466 stands at $92,462, indicating that homes here are affordable and accessible to tenants receiving Section 8 housing assistance. Given the low market rent, landlords can expect to see a steady stream of income above the local average, making this ZIP code particularly attractive for those looking to secure reliable cash flows.
While there's no specific data on price-cut share or days on market (DOM), the significant gap between the FMR and the market rent suggests that the local real estate market is undervalued compared to the federal standard. This undervaluation benefits landlords who can leverage the higher FMR payments to cover their mortgage expenses and maintenance costs, leaving a comfortable margin for profit.
The ZIP code also offers some diversification opportunities. With a 19.7% renter share, it indicates a moderate demand for rental properties, ensuring a stable tenant pool. The median income of $61,574 provides further insight into the economic stability of the area, suggesting that residents have the financial capacity to contribute to rent and utilities, reducing the risk of default.
In summary, ZIP 68466 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio. The substantial spread between the FMR and market rent, combined with the modest median home value, guarantees steady and above-average returns. Landlords should focus on the guaranteed income and reduced risk associated with this type of investment, rather than speculative appreciation plays.
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.