Location: Somerset County, PA | Metro: Bedford County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,300 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,786 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,000 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,160 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,268 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median home value in ZIP 15534 is $232,129, indicating that properties here are relatively affordable. However, the key factor is the disparity between the FMR and the actual market rent. Landlords participating in the Section 8 program can benefit from this gap, as the government will pay the higher FMR rate, which exceeds the typical market rate. This ensures a steady and reliable cash flow, making ZIP 15534 an attractive location for those seeking stable returns.
While the data does not provide specific percentages for price-cut shares or days on market (DOM), the significant difference between the FMR and the market rent suggests that this area is better suited for generating consistent income rather than capital appreciation. The median income in the area is $49,191, which supports the idea that this ZIP code is primarily a cash-flow anchor rather than an appreciation play or a diversifier.
In summary, ZIP 15534 should be considered a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio due to the substantial gap between the FMR and the market rent. This allows landlords to secure a dependable income stream, which is crucial for maintaining financial stability within their investment portfolios.
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.