Location: Harnett County, NC | Metro: Harnett County, NC
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 | $860 |
| 1 Bedroom | $860 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,010 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,400 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,690 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,960 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,195 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,371 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,490 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,010 | $169,069 | 0.6% | F |
| 3BR | $1,400 | $256,198 | 0.55% | F |
| 4BR | $1,690 | $366,692 | 0.46% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP 27521, located in Coats, North Carolina, within the Harnett County metro area, reveals key insights for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The rent math does not work favorably. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,060, which is significantly lower than the market rent indicated by ZORI at $1,500. This gap suggests that properties receiving Section 8 subsidies will generate less income compared to the market rate, making it less attractive for landlords seeking higher returns.
Acquisition is relatively affordable. The median home value in ZIP 27521 stands at $244,910, offering a reasonable entry point for property investment. However, the lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the low 0.3% price-cut share indicate a stable housing market with little fluctuation in pricing. This stability can be seen as both an advantage and a risk, depending on the investor's strategy.
Tenant demand is present but limited. With a population of 6,549 and a renter share of 31.8%, there are approximately 2,080 potential renters. This figure, while not enormous, does provide a steady pool of tenants for those interested in long-term, low-risk investments.
Verdict: ZIP 27521 presents a scenario where the financial benefits of Section 8 rents do not align well with market expectations. Despite the affordable median home values, the disparity between FMR and market rents suggests that landlords should carefully weigh the decision to participate in the Section 8 program. The modest tenant demand supports a conservative approach to investment, suitable for those prioritizing stability over high returns.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.