Location: Lewis County, WV | Metro: Lewis County, WV
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 | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $800 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $950 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,240 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,250 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,624 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,754 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,842 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,240 | $160,159 | 0.77% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate landscape in ZIP code 26338 presents a nuanced scenario for landlords and small-portfolio investors. With a median home value of $144,127, the area offers an entry point into homeownership that is relatively affordable compared to many other regions across the country. The absence of percentage reductions in listings and the unspecified median days on market (DOM) suggest a stable market where homes are selling at or near their asking price, indicating strong pricing power for the immediate future.
On the rental side, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 26338 is set at $880 per month for the fiscal year 2026, reflecting the affordability of the housing market. However, without specific data on current market rents, it's challenging to gauge the exact relationship between rental prices and home values. Typically, a lower FMR suggests that rental income can be competitive relative to the cost of owning property, which could attract more investors looking for positive cash flow opportunities.
For long-term investors, the setup implies a realistic appreciation thesis based on the stability of the local economy and housing demand. Given the low median home value, any economic growth or increase in demand could lead to modest appreciation. However, the lack of detailed data on past trends and economic indicators means that the potential for significant appreciation remains uncertain. Investors should focus on areas with planned infrastructure improvements or demographic shifts that could drive up property values.
A stable housing market with strong pricing power and competitive rental yields positions ZIP 26338 favorably for those seeking steady returns through rental income. The data suggests that maintaining or slightly increasing rental rates in line with the FMR could ensure profitability without risking tenant turnover. For homeowners, the stability of the market supports holding onto properties, as it minimizes the risk of sudden drops in value while offering the possibility of gradual appreciation.
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.