Location: Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY | Metro: Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY MSA
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 | $1,190 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,370 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,650 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,970 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,170 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,517 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,819 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,045 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,197 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,650 | $256,165 | 0.64% | D |
| 3BR | $1,970 | $340,644 | 0.58% | F |
| 4BR | $2,170 | $428,653 | 0.51% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 12023, located in Berne, NY, within the Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY MSA, serves as an ideal cash-flow anchor for a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for FY 2024 is set at $1190 for a one-bedroom unit, which exceeds the local market rent of $1100. This creates a positive spread of $90 per month, ensuring that landlords receive above-market rents from Section 8 tenants.
The median home value in ZIP 12023 stands at $311,994, indicating a stable housing market with moderate property values. While there are no specific figures available for price-cut share or days on market (DOM), the absence of significant volatility suggests a steady environment conducive to reliable rental income.
The 7.7% renter share in the area means that a majority of residents prefer homeownership, reducing competition for rental properties. Despite this, the median income of $112,885 provides a strong financial foundation for potential tenants, ensuring they can meet the requirements of the Section 8 program. This combination of factors makes ZIP 12023 a secure choice for generating consistent cash flow, especially when paired with the guaranteed rental payments from the Section 8 program.
To further solidify its role as a cash-flow anchor, consider the following:
In conclusion, ZIP 12023 offers a compelling opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking a dependable cash-flow anchor within their Section 8 portfolio strategy. The positive rent spread, stable property values, and affluent tenant base make it a strategic choice for long-term financial stability.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.