Location: Schuylkill County, PA | Metro: Schuylkill County, PA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,070 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,390 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,440 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,670 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,870 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,020 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,121 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
A skeptical investor looking into ZIP code 17934 might have several concerns regarding the viability of renting properties under the Section 8 program. Let's address these objections head-on using available data.
The data does not provide the average home price or typical mortgage amounts for ZIP 17934. However, it's crucial to note that FMR is set to ensure that rents are affordable to low-income families, which means it is often lower than market rates. To accurately assess whether the FMR covers the mortgage, an investor must compare the FMR to the actual mortgage payment of the property they intend to invest in. This requires knowing the purchase price and financing terms of the property.
The rental demand percentage of 14.5% suggests that a significant portion of households in ZIP 17934 are renters. While this figure indicates a presence of rental demand, it does not provide insight into the specific demand for Section 8 housing. The percentage alone cannot determine if there will be sufficient tenants interested in your property. Additional research into the local Section 8 waitlist and tenant turnover rates would be necessary to gauge the true demand for subsidized housing in this area.
The data does not specify the current voucher amounts or their historical growth relative to market rents in ZIP 17934. It is essential to monitor how the federal government adjusts voucher amounts to match inflation and local cost-of-living increases. If the voucher payments do not increase in line with rising market rents, landlords could face financial pressures. Conversely, if they do keep pace, landlords can maintain profitability. Regular updates from HUD and local housing authorities will be key to understanding future adjustments.
In conclusion, while the data provides some useful insights into the rental market in ZIP 17934, it does not fully answer all the investor's questions. Specific details such as the average home price, typical mortgage amounts, and precise voucher payment trends are needed to make a comprehensive assessment.
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.