Location: Summers County, WV | Metro: Summers County, WV
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $750 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $940 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,566 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,754 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,894 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,989 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The Section 8 market analysis for ZIP code 25985 in Summers County, WV, reveals several key points that are crucial for landlords and small-portfolio investors. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area, as of fiscal year 2026, is set at $870. However, the current market rent for the area is not available, which suggests that the HUD FMR may be a reliable benchmark for setting rental rates.
Voucher tenants in ZIP 25985 will likely cashflow at the FMR level, given the lack of competition from higher-priced market rents. This means that landlords can expect steady income without the risk of vacancy due to pricing above what voucher holders can afford. It's important to note that the median home value in this ZIP code is $183,357, providing a useful reference point for understanding the local housing market.
To derive the rent-to-price ratio, we can use the HUD FMR and the median home value. Assuming a typical mortgage rate and property tax structure, the annual cost of owning a median-value home would be approximately $10,600, based on a 4% mortgage rate and 1% property tax. This translates into a monthly cost of around $883, which is slightly above the HUD FMR of $870. Therefore, landlords should focus on maintaining properties that meet or exceed the standards required for voucher acceptance to ensure they can charge the FMR and cover their costs.
The dynamics of the rent versus buy market in ZIP 25985 are somewhat unclear due to the lack of data on the days-on-market (DOM) and the percentage of homes that have had their prices cut. Nonetheless, the strong cashflow potential at the FMR level makes it an attractive proposition for investors looking to stabilize their income streams without the volatility associated with speculative investments.
The strongest investor angle in this market is stability. Given the reliable cashflow from voucher tenants and the lack of significant market rent fluctuations, landlords can expect consistent returns with minimal risk. This is particularly appealing in a rural area where appreciation might be slower compared to urban markets.
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.