Location: Randolph County, WV | Metro: Pocahontas County, WV
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $770 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $980 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,200 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,636 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,832 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,979 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,078 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors in ZIP code 26282 within the Randolph County, WV metro area highlights several key factors that influence investment decisions. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the fiscal year 2026 is $890. This figure is crucial for understanding the financial landscape for voucher tenants.
Despite the HUD FMR, the actual market rent for ZIP 26282 is currently unavailable. However, based on the HUD FMR alone, voucher tenants will likely cashflow marginally. This means that while the rent received from voucher tenants will cover most operational costs, it might fall slightly short of fully covering mortgage payments and other expenses without some premium units that command higher rents.
To further analyze the investment potential, consider the median home value in the area, which stands at $136,227. Using this figure, we can calculate a rough rent-to-price ratio. Assuming an average annual rent of $10,680 (based on the $890 monthly FMR), the rent-to-price ratio is approximately 0.078, or 7.8%. This ratio suggests that rental income represents a significant portion of the property's value, making rental properties a viable investment option.
The days-on-market (DOM) and price-cut share data are also missing for ZIP 26282. However, these metrics would typically be important for assessing the balance between renting and buying. In their absence, we must rely on other indicators such as the rent-to-price ratio and the overall economic stability of the area.
The strongest investor angle in ZIP 26282 is stability. Given the reliable HUD FMR and the reasonable rent-to-price ratio, investors can expect steady cash flow and minimal risk of vacancy or default. While appreciation and cashflow are also positive aspects, the predictability of the HUD FMR and the local economy's stability provide a solid foundation for long-term investment success.
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.