Section 8 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 29240 - 2027

Location: Columbia, SC | Metro: Columbia, SC HUD Metro FMR Area

FY 2027 Fair Market Rent Rates

Unit Size Monthly FMR
Studio$1,020
1 Bedroom$1,160
2 Bedrooms$1,260
3 Bedrooms$1,590
4 Bedrooms$1,800
5 Bedrooms$2,088
6 Bedrooms$2,339
7 Bedrooms$2,526
8 Bedrooms$2,652

The analysis of ZIP code 29240 within the Columbia, SC HUD Metro FMR Area reveals several key points that landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider.

The first question concerns whether the rent math works. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 29240 as of fiscal year 2024 is set at $1290. However, due to the lack of specific market rent data, it's impossible to make a direct comparison to determine if the rent math aligns favorably with market conditions. This absence of market rent figures poses a challenge for assessing profitability based on current rental standards.

Moving on to the affordability of property acquisition, the median home value is not specified, nor are the days on market (DOM) and the percentage of homes requiring price cuts. Without these metrics, it's difficult to gauge the financial feasibility of purchasing properties in this area. Landlords need to know how much they can expect to spend and how long it might take to sell a property if necessary.

The third consideration is tenant demand. The population and the percentage of renters in ZIP 29240 are also unspecified. These figures are crucial for understanding the potential occupancy rates and the competition for tenants in the area. A high renter share would indicate strong demand, while a low share could suggest difficulties in finding tenants.

Verdict: Despite the promising FMR of $1290, the analysis of ZIP 29240 is significantly hampered by the lack of critical data such as median home values, market rent levels, days on market, price-cut percentages, and demographic details. To make informed decisions, landlords and investors must seek additional sources to fill these gaps and ensure they have a comprehensive view of the local real estate market before committing to any investments. Until more precise information is available, caution is advised.

Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027).

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.