Location: Summers County, WV | Metro: Mercer 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 | $720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $790 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $980 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,320 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,380 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,601 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,793 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,936 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,033 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,320 | $239,383 | 0.55% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 25979 reveals a unique balance between yield and stability that does not fit neatly into a high-yield/low-stability flip-style market or a steady-cashflow zone. Instead, it presents characteristics that position it as an intermediate market.
On the yield axis, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 25979 stands at $890 for the fiscal year 2026, which is notably lower than the median home value of $199,871. This suggests that rental yields may be relatively low compared to the potential returns from selling properties outright. However, the absence of market rent data indicates a possible gap in the local rental market's competitiveness, which could mean opportunities for landlords who can offer competitive rents while maintaining property values.
Moving to the stability axis, the percentage of renters at 2.2% is quite low, implying a predominantly owner-occupied area. This can lead to less turnover and more stable tenancies when rentals do occur. The median household income of $50,132 provides some insight into the financial health of residents but does not offer a complete picture without knowing the day DOM (days on market) for rental listings, which is currently unavailable. This lack of data makes it challenging to assess how quickly properties might be rented out once they become available.
Given these figures, ZIP 25979 leans towards being a steady-cashflow zone rather than a high-yield/low-stability market. The low percentage of renters suggests a stable environment where tenants might stay longer, reducing vacancy rates and associated costs. The median income figure, while not exceptionally high, supports the idea that residents have the means to maintain consistent rental payments. However, the lower FMR relative to the median home value implies that the potential for high rental yields is limited, making it unsuitable for quick flips aimed at maximizing short-term profits.
To conclude, for landlords and small-portfolio investors, ZIP 25979 offers a moderate investment opportunity with a focus on long-term stability over immediate high returns. The specific figures indicating this include a Federal Market Rent of $890, a median home value of $199,871, and a median household income of $50,132. These metrics collectively point towards a market that is best suited for those seeking reliable cash flow rather than rapid appreciation or high rental yields.
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.