Location: Hardy County, WV | Metro: Winchester, VA-WV MSA
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 | $1,020 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,130 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,420 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,770 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,380 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,761 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,092 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,339 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,506 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,770 | $332,170 | 0.53% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors targeting ZIP 26865 in Hardy County, West Virginia, reveals several key points that should guide investment decisions. The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 26865 for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1110. However, the lack of available data on current market rents means that direct comparisons are not possible, but it's reasonable to assume that the HUD FMR serves as a benchmark for subsidized housing.
Voucher tenants in ZIP 26865 will cashflow at the FMR rate, but this assertion is contingent upon the specific unit's rental cost. Given the median home value of $311,473, the rent-to-price ratio is approximately 0.4%, which suggests that rental income is relatively low compared to property values. This implies that landlords must carefully select properties where the rent does not significantly exceed the HUD FMR to ensure positive cashflow.
The absence of day median Days on Market (DOM) and percentage of price-cut shares indicates a stable local real estate market, likely due to limited inventory and consistent demand. This stability is beneficial for long-term investments, as it reduces the risk of sudden market fluctuations.
In ZIP 26865, the strongest investor angle is stability. While appreciation and cashflow are important considerations, the consistent demand for affordable housing and the relative stability of the local market make it an attractive option for investors seeking steady, reliable returns without the volatility often associated with other markets.
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.