Location: Upshur County, WV | Metro: Barbour County, WV
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $740 |
| 1 Bedroom | $750 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $980 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,240 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,600 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,856 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,079 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,245 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,357 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 26267, located in Buckhannon, Upshur County, WV, can serve as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This designation is based on the significant spread between the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $940 for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 and the lack of available market data for home prices. However, the median home value in ZIP 26267 stands at $163,912, which indicates a relatively stable and affordable housing market.
A cash-flow anchor property is one that provides consistent and reliable rental income, essential for covering expenses and maintaining financial stability. In ZIP 26267, the FMR aligns well with the potential rental income that can be generated from properties in this area. Given the median income of $96,406, residents have the capacity to afford the FMR, ensuring a steady stream of tenants.
The lack of specific appreciation metrics such as price-cut shares and days on market (DOM) suggests that this area does not present a high-risk, high-reward scenario typical of appreciation plays. Instead, it offers a balanced market where properties are likely to hold their value without significant fluctuations.
Furthermore, with a 0.0% renter share, it is evident that most residents in this area own their homes. This characteristic makes ZIP 26267 less suitable for diversification purposes, where a mix of renters and homeowners would be desirable to spread risk. However, for landlords and small-portfolio investors focused on generating consistent rental income, ZIP 26267 serves as a solid foundation.
In summary, ZIP 26267 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio due to its stable median home value and alignment with the FMR, providing a predictable source of rental income. The median income supports the ability of residents to maintain affordability, making this ZIP code a dependable choice for long-term investment.
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.