Location: Windsor County, VT | Metro: Windsor County, VT
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,400 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,410 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,650 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,160 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,250 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,610 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,923 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,157 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,315 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
In assessing the investment risk for Section 8 properties in ZIP code 05153 in Vermont, several factors suggest potential challenges. Tenant turnover is a significant concern, as the market rent stands at $1,293, which is below the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,380 for the fiscal year 2026 in the metropolitan area. This difference indicates that tenants might be more likely to seek higher-paying jobs or move to areas where their vouchers cover a larger portion of the rent, leading to frequent turnover.
Vacancy exposure is another issue, especially considering the days on market (DOM) figure is not available. However, with a typical home value of $354,770 and a median income of $87,292, it's clear that many residents may struggle to afford housing without assistance. This financial strain could result in longer periods of vacancy if the property is not attractive to voucher holders or if there is difficulty finding qualified tenants.
The deferred maintenance exposure is also notable. Given the relatively high home values compared to median incomes, landlords might face pressure to maintain properties in excellent condition to attract and retain tenants. The cost of repairs and maintenance can quickly add up, particularly when dealing with older homes that require more upkeep.
Despite these risks, the 19.4% renter share in the area points to a robust demand for rental properties, including those that accept Section 8 vouchers. High renter density often translates into a greater number of individuals seeking subsidized housing, thus potentially increasing the pool of qualified tenants. Landlords who can effectively manage their properties and navigate the requirements of the Section 8 program may find a stable tenant base in this market.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
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.