Location: Charleston, WV | Metro: Charleston, WV 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 | $690 |
| 1 Bedroom | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $990 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,300 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,508 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,689 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,824 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,915 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $990 | $98,989 | 1% | B |
| 3BR | $1,250 | $154,273 | 0.81% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate market in ZIP 25086 (Glasgow, WV) presents a unique set of conditions that landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider. With a median home value of $114,207, the area remains affordable, but the lack of data on the percentage of listings that have been reduced and the median days on market (DOM) suggests stability rather than significant upward or downward pressure on home values.
On the rental side, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 25086 is projected at $920 for fiscal year 2024, which is slightly higher than the current market rate of $919. This indicates a minor positive trend in rental income potential, aligning with the modest growth expected in the broader housing market. However, the difference is minimal, suggesting that rental prices will remain relatively stable over the next 12-24 months.
For long-term investors, the setup implies a conservative appreciation thesis. The low median home value combined with the stable rental market suggests that while there may be some appreciation, it will likely be gradual and not dramatic. Investors looking to capitalize on rapid increases in property value might find limited opportunities here. Instead, the focus should be on steady cash flow from rentals, given the slight edge in FMR over the current market rates.
The absence of significant reductions in listing prices and the lack of specific DOM data points to a balanced market where neither buyers nor sellers hold substantial leverage. This balance is crucial for maintaining consistent property values and rental incomes, making ZIP 25086 suitable for those seeking a low-risk investment environment.
In summary, ZIP 25086 offers a stable real estate landscape for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The combination of an affordable median home value and a slightly favorable rental market projection supports a strategy focused on steady returns rather than speculative gains.
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.