Location: Calhoun County, WV | Metro: Calhoun County, WV
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 | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $760 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $940 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,280 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,496 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,676 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,901 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,280 | $141,550 | 0.9% | C |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 25234 is situated in a rural neighborhood characterized by a small population of 566 residents. Only 4.7% of these residents are renters, indicating a predominantly owner-occupied community. The median household income here stands at $42,813, which is relatively modest compared to urban areas. The median home value in this area is $103,158, suggesting that homeownership is accessible to many local residents.
From an investment perspective, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,000. However, there is no available data on the market rent for ZIP 25234, which complicates direct comparisons but also suggests that the FMR might serve as a reasonable benchmark given the limited rental activity.
Given the characteristics of ZIP 25234, it appears to be better suited for a hands-off voucher operator rather than a hands-on value-add buyer. The low percentage of renters and the modest income levels indicate a smaller pool of potential tenants who could benefit from Section 8 vouchers. For a hands-off operator, the stability provided by the government-backed vouchers can offset the risks associated with a less dynamic rental market. On the other hand, the limited opportunities for increasing rents or property values through renovations or upgrades make it less attractive for a value-add strategy. The focus should be on maintaining properties to meet the standards required for voucher eligibility and ensuring compliance with HUD regulations.
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.