Location: Franklin County, NY | Metro: Essex County, NY
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 | $830 |
| 1 Bedroom | $890 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,130 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,360 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,560 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,027 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,189 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,298 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,130 | $236,509 | 0.48% | F |
| 3BR | $1,360 | $310,187 | 0.44% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
Vermontville, NY, located in ZIP code 12989, presents a unique opportunity for real-estate investors considering its position on the yield and stability spectrum. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,140, significantly higher than the local market rent of $675. This gap suggests a potential for high rental yields if properties can be leased at or near the FMR. However, the median home value in the area stands at $242,339, indicating that property acquisition costs are relatively high.
On the stability axis, Vermontville shows mixed indicators. Only 10.6% of the population are renters, which is a low figure suggesting limited demand for rental properties. Additionally, the average daily days on market (DOM) data is not available, which could imply either very quick sales or an underdeveloped real estate market. The median household income is $84,464, which is a positive sign as it indicates a relatively stable economic base for the area.
The classification of Vermontville as a real-estate investment market leans towards being a steady-cashflow zone. Despite the potential for high rental yields due to the disparity between FMR and market rents, the low percentage of renters and high median home value suggest a market that is less prone to rapid changes or speculative flips. The stable income levels provide a foundation for consistent cash flow, but the limited rental market means that the upside for aggressive yield strategies is constrained.
To summarize, Vermontville offers a moderate yield potential with a strong emphasis on stability. Investors should focus on acquiring properties that can be rented out at or close to the FMR to maximize returns while expecting a market that will reward long-term, consistent investment over short-term, high-risk strategies.
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.