| Unit Size | FY 2026 FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio (0 Bedroom) | $780 |
| 1 Bedroom | $840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
Location: Pittsburgh, PA
Metro Area: Pittsburgh, PA HUD Metro FMR Area
Explore Section 8 payment standards in neighboring areas:
Cities Covered: This ZIP code covers White, Westover.
FMR Rates (FY 2026):
Studio: $780 | 1BR: $840 | 2BR: $1,010 | 3BR: $1,290 | 4BR: $1,390
Median Property Prices & 1% Rule Analysis:
Market Overview: The 15490 area is a micro‑market focused on small‑scale manufacturing and regional retail, with a demographic split of 32% professionals, 33% families, 23% service workers, and 12% students. Vacancy sits at 4.2%, and rents have grown 5–6% YoY, reflecting steady job growth at the Fayette County Industrial Park. The market remains stable, with appreciation around 2.5% yearly. Cash‑flow opportunities are strong due to the low purchase price base, while appreciation is secondary. Investor focus should be on maintaining high tenant quality and minimizing vacancy to sustain cash flow.
Investment Takeaway: Target purchase prices of $210–280 k for 2 BR units and $320–360 k for 3 BR units to achieve gross yields of 7–9% and approach the 1% rule with rents of $1,450+ for 2 BR and $1,950+ for 3 BR. Light rehab or turnkey projects are optimal investment strategies, with a focus on well‑positioned properties near the industrial park. Allocate 10% of purchase price annually for maintenance, 5% for vacancy, and 1.6% for taxes. 2 BR units in the $240–280 k range and 3 BR units in the $330–360 k range offer the best balance of cash flow and modest appreciation.
Key Considerations: This market is cash‑flow driven with ~2–3% annual appreciation. Screen tenants with credit scores ≥700, income ≥3× rent, and stable employment. Budget 10% maintenance, 5% vacancy reserve, 1.6% property taxes. Risks include tenant turnover and deferred maintenance; proactive management mitigates them. Management fees of 8–10% of rent are typical for remote investors. Keep financing conservative; 70% LTV or lower is advisable to protect cash flow.