Location: Kent County, MD | Metro: Kent County, MD
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $970 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,100 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,200 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,540 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,980 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,297 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,573 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,779 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,918 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 21667 presents several challenges for landlords considering Section 8 investments. Firstly, the tenant turnover rate can be unpredictable when comparing the market rent to the $1,250 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the fiscal year 2026. Landlords may face difficulties in attracting tenants willing to pay the higher market rent, leading to increased turnover and associated costs.
Vacancy exposure is another concern. With no data on days on market (DOM), it's uncertain how long properties might remain vacant. However, given the typical home value of $297,762 and the median income of $64,122, there's a significant disparity that suggests potential vacancy issues. High-value homes may not align well with the median income levels, making them less attractive to voucher holders and other renters.
Deferred maintenance exposure is also a risk factor. The typical home value in the area is $297,762, but with a median income of $64,122, many residents may struggle to afford necessary repairs and upgrades. This could result in higher maintenance costs for landlords who take on Section 8 properties, especially if they inherit units needing work.
Despite these risks, the high renter share of 13.8% in ZIP 21667 indicates a robust demand for rental housing, which often translates into strong interest in Section 8 vouchers. A large number of renters typically means a greater pool of potential voucher users, reducing the likelihood of prolonged vacancies and increasing the chances of finding stable tenants.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
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.