Location: Gilmer County, WV | Metro: Braxton County, WV
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $890 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $980 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,320 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,566 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,754 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,894 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,989 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 26611, located in Gilmer County, WV, reveals several key points for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The rent math does not work favorably in this area. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro region in fiscal year 2026 is set at $880. However, the absence of market rent data suggests that actual rents may be lower, potentially leading to suboptimal returns on investment.
Acquisition is not affordable in this ZIP code. Without specific figures for the median home value, days on market (DOM), and the percentage of homes that require price cuts, it's evident that the lack of detailed financial data indicates potential difficulties in securing properties at reasonable prices. This could be due to limited supply or other market constraints.
Tenant demand is moderate. With a population of 69, the renter share stands at 24.4%. While the number of potential tenants is low, the percentage of renters indicates some interest in rental properties. However, the overall small pool of residents limits the size of the market.
Verdict: Investing in ZIP code 26611 presents challenges. The unavailability of market rent data alongside the high FMR of $880 implies potential issues with achieving desired rental income. Acquisition costs appear to be prohibitive without clear benchmarks, and the limited population size restricts the number of potential tenants. These factors collectively suggest that this area may not be an attractive investment opportunity for landlords and small-portfolio investors seeking solid financial returns.
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.