Location: Cheshire County, NH | Metro: Cheshire County, NH
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 | $1,200 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,330 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,270 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,300 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,668 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,988 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,227 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,388 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,740 | $363,390 | 0.48% | F |
| 3BR | $2,270 | $453,635 | 0.5% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The potential pitfalls of investing in ZIP 03466 for Section 8 housing are significant. Tenant turnover poses a substantial challenge, as there is no available market rent data to compare with the $1,630 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for fiscal year 2026 in the metropolitan area. This lack of information makes it difficult to gauge whether the FMR is competitive enough to retain tenants.
Vacancy exposure is another critical issue. With no data on Days on Market (DOM), it's unclear how quickly properties can be filled, leaving investors vulnerable to extended periods without rental income. In a region where the typical home value is $436,101 and the median income is $83,281, landlords must also prepare for deferred maintenance costs that can quickly escalate. The high cost of living relative to income suggests that tenants might struggle to cover maintenance expenses, placing the financial burden on the landlord.
Despite these challenges, the high renter share of 14.3% indicates a robust demand for rental properties, which typically translates into higher voucher demand. This demand can provide a steady stream of tenants who are able to pay through the Section 8 program, mitigating some of the risks associated with tenant turnover and vacancy rates.
In conclusion, the verdict for a first-time Section 8 landlord in ZIP 03466 is moderate risk. While there are considerable risks related to tenant turnover and deferred maintenance, the high renter share offers a protective cushion that can help stabilize the investment. Careful consideration and preparation for these risks are essential for a successful venture.
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.