Location: Randolph County, WV | Metro: Randolph County, WV
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $750 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $980 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,560 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,810 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,027 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,189 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,298 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 26259 presents several challenges for landlords considering Section 8 investments. Firstly, tenant turnover can be problematic due to the discrepancy between the market rent and the $930 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for fiscal year 2026, which is based on metro area standards. This gap may lead to frequent changes in occupancy as tenants seek better deals, affecting long-term stability and cash flow.
Vacancy exposure is another concern. The average days on market (DOM) is not available, but given that it is an indicator of how quickly properties can be rented, a higher DOM could mean extended periods without rental income. This uncertainty increases the financial risk associated with maintaining property without guaranteed income.
Deferred maintenance poses a significant risk. With a median income of $65,658, residents may struggle to afford improvements even when they are required. This situation can result in a higher burden on landlords to ensure that homes remain habitable and up to code, potentially leading to unexpected expenses and maintenance issues.
Despite these risks, the analysis must also consider the positive factors. The ZIP code has a 0.0% renter share, which typically indicates a high concentration of renters. In most cases, high renter density correlates with increased demand for housing vouchers, suggesting that there could be a robust pool of Section 8 tenants interested in renting properties. This demand can stabilize the rental market and provide a consistent source of income for landlords willing to participate in the program.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord. While there are notable risks related to tenant turnover, vacancy exposure, and deferred maintenance, the potential for a high demand for housing vouchers balances these concerns. Landlords should carefully evaluate their ability to manage these risks before investing.
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.