Real Estate Investing in Melrose, Iowa (52569)
Everything the listing leaves out — vacancy, rent trend, cap rate, landlord climate. All free.
Should you buy in 52569 (Melrose, IA)? Our answer, based on the numbers below.
Solid choice — values are growing steadily and the market is stable enough to buy with confidence.
A balanced market — moderate cash flow and moderate appreciation. A "steady" investor profile fits best.
- High vacancy: 48.1% of homes vacant — above national norms.
• 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 Melrose, IA (52569)?
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Market Analysis: 52569 Melrose
This part of Monroe County is not an easy win. The 52569 ZIP registers softness in key indicators, and the playbook that works in cleaner markets often stalls here.
The investment case in 52569 is sturdy only for operators who understand what they are buying. A $127K median suggests accessibility, but management intensity, vacancy drift, and capex surprises are real.
Nearby ZIPs in Melrose have seen price recovery that 52569 has not matched. Monroe County data supports the view that the spread is structural rather than temporary.
From a cash-flow lens, 541 residents fill the ZIP, renter turnover runs higher than neighboring postal codes and delinquency risk is a real line item rather than a theoretical one.
The right play in 52569 usually involves deep tenant screening, aggressive delinquency response, and a conservative capex buffer. Anything less, and the discount can turn into a trap.
Here's what matters if you're considering buying a home in Melrose:
Property Strategy for 52569
Which property type performs best in this market?
📊 Compare All Property Types →
| Type | Median Value | Est. Rent | Cap Rate | 5yr CAGR | $/Bedroom |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $118,911 | $1,190 | 7.2% | — | $59,455 |
| 3BR | $171,879 | $1,540 | 6.5% | — | $57,293 |
Market Trends
Home Value History (with trend line)
📊 How Does 52569 Compare?
| Metric | 52569 | Melrose | Iowa |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home Value | $126,638 | $126,638 | $227,232 |
| 5-Year CAGR | 7.8% | 7.8% | 6.0% |
| Avg Rent | $1,071 | $1,071 | - |
| Cap Rate | 6.6% | 6.6% | - |
Similar ZIPs Within 25 Miles
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Landlord Ground Truth
Real numbers from people who own or manage rentals in ZIP 52569 (Melrose, IA). Anonymous, moderated, never written by AI.
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📊 Market Snapshot
| Home Value | $126,638 |
| Monthly Rent | $1,071 |
| Price-to-Rent | 9.9:1 |
| 1% Rule | ✗ Fails |
💰 Return Metrics
| Gross Yield | 10.2% |
| Cap Rate | 6.6% |
| 5-Year IRR | 14.4% |
📈 Home Appreciation
| 1-Year | +21.4% ▲ |
| 3-Year CAGR | +6.3% ▲ |
| 5-Year CAGR | +7.8% ▲ |
| 10-Year CAGR | +9.8% ▲ |
🏠 Rent Trends
| 1-Year | N/A |
| 3-Year CAGR | N/A |
| 5-Year CAGR | N/A |
The current 30-yr mortgage rate (6.8%) is close to the estimated cap rate (6.6%). Financing this market at current rates produces a cash-on-cash return near the cap rate. Appreciation and tax benefits may still support the investment.
⚠️ Risk Signals
Composite view of factors that can impact a ZIP's stability and your downside risk.
Demographics in 52569
Population: 541
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What investment strategy works best in Melrose, IA?
Most investors in Melrose, IA run a careful cash-flow rentals with hands-on management strategy. It aligns with the 4.0/5 investability profile and the market fundamentals.
What is the average home sale price in Melrose, IA?
Typical homes in Melrose, IA go for around $127K. The 5-year CAGR of 0.0% consistent price movement.
Is Melrose, IA a smart market for rental property?
The 4.0/5 investability rating in Melrose, IA reflects its $127K prices and $1,071/mo rents. Investors generally consider it a solid option within IA.
How strong is the working-renter base in Melrose, IA?
The renter base in Melrose, IA is reasonable for the $1,071/mo price point. Screening well and pricing to market typically yields measured tenants.
What do rentals go for in Melrose, IA?
Average rent in Melrose, IA is approximately $1,071/mo per month. Against $127K home values that yields a reasonable rent-to-price ratio.
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