Location: Windsor County, VT | Metro: Windsor County, VT
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,130 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,130 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,330 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,820 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,111 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,364 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,553 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,681 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 05151, located in Windsor County, VT, presents an opportunity for small-portfolio investors looking to anchor their cash flow. The area's strong fundamentals align well with a Section 8 portfolio strategy, particularly due to the favorable spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) and the median home value.
The FMR for a one-bedroom unit in the ZIP 05151 metro area for fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,180. Although the current market rent is not specified, the median home value stands at $314,669. This indicates that the rental income generated through Section 8 can provide a steady and reliable cash flow, especially when compared to the high median home value which suggests limited potential for appreciation in the short term.
The area has a renter share of 9.9%, indicating a relatively low demand for rentals. However, the median income of $96,836 suggests that residents have the financial stability to meet their rental obligations. While the lack of specific data on price-cut shares and days on market (DOM) means we cannot fully assess the appreciation potential, the focus should remain on the consistent cash flow that Section 8 properties can offer.
A portfolio anchored in ZIP 05151 would benefit from the guaranteed income stream provided by the government-subsidized rents. This strategy ensures that landlords receive regular payments, mitigating the risk associated with finding and retaining tenants in a low-renter-share environment. Furthermore, the high median home value implies that property maintenance costs might be higher, but the security of the Section 8 program can offset these risks.
In conclusion, ZIP 05151 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The significant spread between the FMR and median home value, combined with the financial stability of the local population, makes this area a solid choice for investors seeking dependable income rather than rapid appreciation.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.