Real Estate Investing in Albion, Iowa (50148)
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Should you buy in 50148 (Albion, IA)? Our answer, based on the numbers below.
Mixed — values have been flat. OK for long-horizon buyers, less attractive if you may need to sell soon.
Structural challenges here. The numbers may look cheap but operational risk is high. Only for experienced, hands-on investors.
No major risk flags on the data we track.
• Limited market data — this is a very small market; averages are built from few observations and can swing widely. • Modeled rent — no observed market rent for this ZIP; the figure is estimated from HUD fair-market rent.
What’s happening in Albion, IA (50148)?
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Market Analysis: 50148 Albion
Not every below-median market is a bargain. Albion's 50148 ZIP sits at signals that favor experienced operators who can absorb the risk $184K pricing implies.
From a cash-flow lens, the numbers look inviting — $184K purchase price, 0.0% nominal cap — the work to hit that pro forma in 50148 is substantial and deserves full respect.
Regionally, 50148 sits on the difficult end of the IA spectrum. The a solid fit for read — for disciplined operators — is that pricing reflects the difficulty.
The 50148 ZIP's population of 396 has faced economic pressure over the last decade. That pressure shows up in rent delinquency patterns that sits at the need for careful underwriting.
Strategy in 50148 is an operator game, not a passive one. Looking more closely, entry prices of $184K are inviting, the management lift is real and non-optional.
Here's what matters if you're considering buying a home in Albion:
Market Trends
Home Value History (with trend line)
📊 How Does 50148 Compare?
| Metric | 50148 | Albion | Marshalltown, IA | Iowa |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Home Value | $183,532 | $188,723 | N/A | $227,232 |
| 5-Year CAGR | N/A | N/A | N/A | 6.0% |
| Avg Rent | $837 | $837 | N/A | - |
| Cap Rate | 3.6% | 3.5% | - | - |
Similar ZIPs Within 25 Miles
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Landlord Ground Truth
Real numbers from people who own or manage rentals in ZIP 50148 (Albion, IA). Anonymous, moderated, never written by AI.
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📊 Market Snapshot
| Home Value | $183,532 |
| Monthly Rent | $837 |
| Price-to-Rent | 18.3:1 |
| 1% Rule | ✗ Fails |
💰 Return Metrics
| Gross Yield | 5.5% |
| Cap Rate | 3.6% |
| 5-Year IRR | 1.3% |
📈 Home Appreciation
| 1-Year | +7.4% ▲ |
| 3-Year CAGR | -2.3% ▼ |
| 5-Year CAGR | N/A |
| 10-Year CAGR | N/A |
🏠 Rent Trends
| 1-Year | N/A |
| 3-Year CAGR | N/A |
| 5-Year CAGR | N/A |
The current 30-yr mortgage rate (6.8%) exceeds the estimated cap rate (3.6%). Financing reduces your cash-on-cash return below the cap rate. Markets like this may still make sense as IRR plays — factoring in appreciation, depreciation, and a future refinance when rates drop.
Run an IRR Analysis →⚠️ Risk Signals
Composite view of factors that can impact a ZIP's stability and your downside risk.
Demographics in 50148
Population: 396
Crime & Safety
Crime & Safety Data Coming Soon
We're integrating comprehensive crime statistics including violent crime rates, property crime, and safety scores to help you make informed investment decisions.
Expected: Q1 2025
🎓 Nearby Colleges & Universities
Frequently Asked Questions
Is real estate in Albion, IA a good investment right now?
Albion, IA rates 2.0/5 for investability. With median values at $184K and rents near $837/mo, the market offers reasonable fundamentals for rental investors.
What kind of vacancy should I budget for in Albion, IA?
Albion, IA vacancy trends elevated. Investors running standard buy-and-hold plays see reasonable downtime between tenants.
How strong are rents in Albion, IA?
The typical rental in Albion, IA commands about $837/mo monthly. That rent profile measured cash flow against the $184K purchase basis.
Is house hacking profitable in Albion, IA?
House hacking in Albion, IA is reasonable to execute. Prices around $184K and rents of $837/mo solid owner-occupant economics.
Which real estate strategy fits Albion, IA?
Investors who focus on careful cash-flow rentals with hands-on management typically do well in Albion, IA. The numbers - $184K homes against $837/mo rents - support that play.
You know 50148 now. You don’t know where it ranks.
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How 50148 ranks in Marshalltown, IA
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