Location: Calvert County, MD | Metro: Calvert County, MD HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $1,890 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,910 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,420 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $3,350 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,790 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $4,396 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,924 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $5,318 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,584 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $3,350 | $436,780 | 0.77% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate landscape in ZIP 20629 presents a nuanced scenario that landlords and small-portfolio investors must consider carefully. The median home value stands at $464,892, a figure that serves as a foundational metric for understanding the local housing market's current state. Despite this established valuation, the percentage of listings that have been reduced and the median days on market (DOM) remain unspecified, suggesting a potential equilibrium in the market where neither sellers nor buyers hold a significant advantage.
This ambiguity in pricing power is further reflected in the rental market. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 20629 for fiscal year 2024 is set at $2210, which provides a benchmark for rental rates. However, without comparative data on current market rents, it's challenging to assess whether the rental market is trending towards higher or lower rates relative to the FMR. This could imply a stable rental environment, but it also means that any shifts in tenant preferences or economic conditions could alter the dynamics significantly.
For long-term investors, the appreciation thesis in ZIP 20629 appears realistic but requires a strategic approach. Given the median home value and the absence of specific trends indicating either an increase or decrease in property listings or DOM, there is an implicit stability in the housing market. This suggests that while rapid appreciation might not be imminent, gradual increases are plausible. Long-term investors should focus on maintaining properties and ensuring they align with the FMR to sustain steady cash flows and value growth.
The setup implied by the available data points toward a market where landlords and investors can expect consistent performance rather than explosive growth. With the median home value providing a solid base and the FMR offering guidance on rental pricing, investors can make informed decisions about property management and investment strategies. It's crucial to monitor both the buying and renting markets closely for signs of change that could impact future valuations and rental income.
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.