Location: Carroll County, NH | Metro: Carroll 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 | $1,150 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,270 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,630 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,260 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,560 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,970 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,326 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,592 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,772 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,630 | $420,665 | 0.39% | F |
| 3BR | $2,260 | $530,029 | 0.43% | F |
| 4BR | $2,560 | $718,404 | 0.36% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate market in ZIP code 03836, Freedom, NH, presents a unique scenario for landlords and small-portfolio investors. With a median home value at $454,048, there is a clear indication that the housing market remains stable and potentially poised for growth. However, the lack of specific data on the percentage of listings that have been reduced and the median days on market (DOM) suggests a steady market without significant distress sales or rapid turnover. This stability implies that landlords can maintain their current pricing strategies without fear of sudden devaluations.
On the rental side, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area as of fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,610. While this figure is specific, the absence of current market rental data makes it difficult to assess the immediate impact on rental pricing. Nevertheless, assuming the FMR reflects the broader trend, landlords can expect to see rents aligning closely with this benchmark over the next 12-24 months. This alignment supports maintaining or slightly increasing rental rates, particularly if the local economy continues to perform well and attract new residents.
For long-term investors, the setup in Freedom, NH, signals a conservative appreciation thesis. The stability in home values and the absence of significant reductions in listing prices suggest a market that will likely grow at a modest pace rather than experiencing explosive growth. Investors should prepare for an annual appreciation rate that is in line with historical averages, perhaps around 2-3%, unless there is a notable economic shift in the region that could accelerate this growth. The lack of recent distressed sales also indicates that the market has not seen a significant downturn, which supports the idea that property values will continue to rise, albeit gradually.
In summary, the median home value, the steady market conditions indicated by the missing distressed sale data, and the rental market's alignment with the FMR all point towards a predictable and stable environment. Landlords and small-portfolio investors can confidently hold onto properties, expecting gradual appreciation and the ability to maintain or slightly increase rental rates based on the established FMR.
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.