Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 17850 - 2027

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

Demographics & Housing Statistics

U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)

A skeptical investor looking into ZIP code 17850 might have several concerns regarding the feasibility of investing in properties here, particularly under the Section 8 program. Let's address these concerns with the available data.

• Will FMR $1,080 (metro FY 2026) cover the mortgage on a N/A home? The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 17850 is set at $1,080 for fiscal year 2026. However, without specific data on average home prices and mortgage rates in this area, it's challenging to definitively state whether this amount will cover the mortgage on an average home. To make an informed decision, investors should calculate their expected monthly mortgage payments based on current interest rates and property values in the region. If the mortgage payment exceeds the FMR, landlords may need to consider additional sources of income or subsidies to ensure profitability.
• Is there enough renter demand at 40.6%? The percentage of renter-occupied housing units in ZIP 17850 stands at 40.6%. This figure suggests that while there is a significant portion of renters, it is slightly below the national average, which can range from 30% to over 50%, depending on the metropolitan area. A 40.6% rental rate indicates a moderate level of demand. However, the key metric is the occupancy rate among Section 8 eligible units. If the occupancy rate for subsidized housing is high, this could still present a viable investment opportunity despite the overall lower rental rate. Investors should seek out local real estate market reports to get a clearer picture of the demand for subsidized housing specifically.
• Will vouchers keep pace with $769 market rents? The voucher payment standard in ZIP 17850 is $769, which is intended to reflect the market rent for a typical unit. This means that landlords who participate in the Section 8 program can expect to receive a payment that closely mirrors the actual market conditions. HUD adjusts the voucher payment standards annually to ensure they remain relevant to the local housing market. Therefore, as long as the market rents do not drastically increase beyond the annual adjustment, vouchers should effectively keep pace with the $769 market rents.

The data provides a solid foundation for addressing these concerns, but it also highlights areas where further investigation is necessary. For instance, understanding the local housing market dynamics and the specifics of home prices and mortgage costs is crucial for assessing the financial viability of an investment. Additionally, while the voucher system aims to adjust to market conditions, investors must be prepared for potential discrepancies that can arise due to rapid changes in the local economy or housing demand.

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.