Location: Augusta-Richmond County, GA | Metro: Augusta-Richmond County, GA-SC HUD Metro FMR Area
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 | $800 |
| 1 Bedroom | $970 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,070 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,640 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,902 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,130 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,300 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,415 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $970 | $172,586 | 0.56% | F |
| 2BR | $1,070 | $311,329 | 0.34% | F |
| 3BR | $1,350 | $292,045 | 0.46% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 29847, located in Trenton, SC, and part of the Augusta-Richmond County, GA-SC HUD Metro FMR Area, can serve as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio strategy. This designation is based on the favorable financial metrics presented by the area.
In fiscal year 2024, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 29847 is set at $920. This figure exceeds the market rent of $842, providing a positive spread of $78 per unit. This means that landlords participating in the Section 8 program can expect to receive a higher rental income compared to the average market rate, thus ensuring a steady and reliable cash flow. Additionally, the median home value in this area stands at $212,372, which indicates a relatively stable housing market where property values are unlikely to fluctuate drastically.
The lack of specific percentages for price-cut share and days on market (DOM) suggests that there isn't enough data to categorize this ZIP code as an appreciation play. However, the significant cash-flow advantage makes it a strong candidate for anchoring a portfolio's financial stability.
While the ZIP code could also be considered a diversifier due to the 13.4% renter share and a median income of $56,713, the primary focus should be on its role as a cash-flow anchor. The guaranteed higher rental income through the Section 8 program provides a solid foundation for any investment strategy, ensuring that even if other parts of the portfolio experience fluctuations, the units in ZIP 29847 will continue to generate consistent returns.
For landlords and small-portfolio investors looking to stabilize their cash flow, ZIP 29847 presents a compelling opportunity. By leveraging the higher FMR, they can secure a dependable income stream while also benefiting from a stable housing market that supports long-term investment goals.
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.