Location: Reading, PA | Metro: Reading, PA MSA
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 | $990 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,120 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,750 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,900 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,204 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,468 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,665 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,798 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,420 | $245,701 | 0.58% | F |
| 3BR | $1,750 | $309,711 | 0.57% | F |
| 4BR | $1,900 | $370,182 | 0.51% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate market in Womelsdorf, PA (ZIP 19567) presents a nuanced scenario for landlords and small-portfolio investors, anchored by the median home value of $308,128. Despite the absence of specific percentages for listings that have been reduced and the median days on market (DOM), the current median home value suggests a stable pricing environment. This stability implies that landlords can maintain rental rates that reflect the underlying property values without significant pressure to reduce rents.
The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 19567 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,390, while the current market rent stands at $1,381, according to Census ACS data. This near parity between FMR and market rent indicates a balanced rental market where landlords can expect to achieve reasonable occupancy rates without having to aggressively discount their rental offers. The slight increase in FMR over the current market rent signals a potential upward trend in rental demand, which could support higher rents in the future.
Long-term investors should consider the implications of these figures for appreciation. With the median home value holding steady and the rental market reflecting a minor uptick, there is a realistic setup for modest appreciation over the next 12-24 months. However, the lack of specific data on listing reductions and DOM does not provide a clear picture of the supply-demand balance, which is critical for predicting significant price increases. Thus, while the current environment supports maintaining current investment strategies, it does not strongly indicate rapid appreciation.
In summary, the median home value, coupled with the slight increase in FMR over market rent, suggests that landlords and small-portfolio investors in Womelsdorf, PA can continue to leverage their properties effectively. The setup points towards a market that will likely remain stable, supporting modest appreciation and steady rental income, but without the conditions that would lead to substantial growth in property values or rental rates.
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.