Real Estate Investing in Stetson, Maine (04488)
Should you buy in 04488 (Stetson, ME)? Our answer, based on the numbers below.
Mixed signals — some positives, some negatives. Worth considering but not a slam-dunk.
Rare combination of both appreciation and cash flow. These markets don't last long — worth serious consideration.
- High vacancy: 18.0% of homes vacant — above national norms.
What’s happening in Stetson, ME (04488)?
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Market Analysis: 04488 Stetson
Investors eyeing 04488 need to respect the fundamentals at play. Home values of $273K come alongside slower price movement and elevated management overhead.
For an experienced owner, 04488 can be a worth a close look for hunting ground — but the discount at $273K reflects genuine risk that outside investors often underestimate.
ZIP 04488's metrics run below Penobscot County's averages on price growth and tenant stability. Investors who ignore that regional gap tend to relearn it the hard way.
A significant renter share of 15% in 04488 is not, on its own, a problem — but paired with below-average income and high mobility, it changes the operating playbook.
The right play in 04488 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 Stetson:
Market Trends
Home Value History (with trend line)
📊 How Does 04488 Compare?
| Metric | 04488 | Stetson | Bangor, ME | Maine |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Home Value | $273,289 | $273,289 | N/A | $401,109 |
| 5-Year CAGR | 8.3% | 8.3% | N/A | 8.6% |
| Avg Rent | $1,422 | $1,422 | N/A | - |
| Cap Rate | 4.1% | 4.1% | - | - |
Similar ZIPs Within 25 Miles
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Landlord Ground Truth
Real numbers from people who own or manage rentals in ZIP 04488 (Stetson, ME). Anonymous, moderated, never written by AI.
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📊 Market Snapshot
| Home Value | $273,289 |
| Monthly Rent | $1,422 |
| Price-to-Rent | 16.0:1 |
| 1% Rule | ✗ Fails |
💰 Return Metrics
| Gross Yield | 6.2% |
| Cap Rate | 4.1% |
| 5-Year IRR | 12.4% |
📈 Home Appreciation
| 1-Year | +5.3% ▲ |
| 3-Year CAGR | +5.4% ▲ |
| 5-Year CAGR | +8.3% ▲ |
| 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 (6.5%) exceeds the estimated cap rate (4.1%). 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 04488
Population: 1,087
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
Does Stetson, ME make sense for an investment property?
With a 3.0/5 investability score, Stetson, ME ranks as a solid market for rental property investors. Median prices of $273K and rents of $1,422/mo drive the underlying numbers.
Do landlords face vacancy issues in Stetson, ME?
Expect elevated vacancy in Stetson, ME. Rents at $1,422/mo are absorbed by the tenant base without meaningful lag.
How should investors approach Stetson, ME?
Most investors in Stetson, ME run a careful cash-flow rentals with hands-on management strategy. It aligns with the 3.0/5 investability profile and the market fundamentals.
Does house hacking make sense in Stetson, ME?
House hacking works a challenging in Stetson, ME. Rents of $1,422/mo against $273K acquisition make the strategy solid for owner-occupants.
What is the typical rental rate in Stetson, ME?
The typical rental in Stetson, ME commands about $1,422/mo monthly. That rent profile steady cash flow against the $273K purchase basis.
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