Location: Summers County, WV | Metro: Raleigh County, 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 | $750 |
| 1 Bedroom | $760 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,340 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,400 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,624 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,819 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,965 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,063 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,340 | $224,876 | 0.6% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The classification of ZIP code 25989 hinges significantly on the available data points, particularly focusing on the yield potential and market stability. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 25989 in fiscal year 2024 is set at $880. This figure represents the expected rental income for properties in this area. However, without specific market rental rates for comparison, we must rely on the FMR as our benchmark for yield.
The median home value in ZIP 25989 stands at $197,471. Given this relatively low home value, it suggests that the area could be attractive for investment in terms of initial capital outlay, potentially allowing for higher yields if rental prices align closely with the FMR. For instance, an investor might achieve a significant return on investment if the rental income closely matches the FMR while the property cost remains below average.
Market stability is indicated by the percentage of renters, which is reported at 44.6%. This suggests a moderate level of demand for rental housing. A higher percentage of renters typically correlates with greater stability because there is consistent demand for rental units. However, the lack of data regarding the number of days on market (DOM) and the average income of residents makes it challenging to fully assess the stability. Without these figures, it's difficult to gauge the likelihood of tenants defaulting on rent payments or the speed at which properties can be rented out.
Based on the provided data, ZIP 25989 leans towards being a steady-cashflow zone. The presence of a substantial renter population supports stable occupancy rates, assuming that the average income is sufficient to cover the rental costs. The relatively low home values also suggest that the area could offer good opportunities for positive cash flow, especially if the rental income approaches the FMR. However, the absence of critical data points such as the actual market rental rates and average income levels means that this assessment carries some uncertainty.
To make a more definitive call, additional research is necessary to fill in the gaps regarding market rental rates and tenant income levels. These factors would provide a clearer picture of whether the ZIP code is truly a steady-cashflow zone or if it falls into another category.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.