Location: Beaufort County, SC | Metro: Beaufort County, 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 | $1,430 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,500 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,640 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,960 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,450 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,842 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,183 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,438 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,610 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,500 | $368,759 | 0.41% | F |
| 2BR | $1,640 | $404,244 | 0.41% | F |
| 3BR | $1,960 | $628,583 | 0.31% | F |
| 4BR | $2,450 | $936,463 | 0.26% | F |
| 5BR | $2,842 | $1,329,150 | 0.21% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
In Saint Helena Island, SC (ZIP 29920), the real estate market presents a unique set of conditions that reflect both stability and potential opportunities for long-term investors. The median home value stands at $598,218, indicating a relatively high barrier to entry for new homeowners. This figure is significant as it suggests a strong underlying demand for housing in the area, supported by the fact that only 0.2% of listings have been reduced in price. Such minimal reductions point to a market where sellers maintain considerable pricing power, as buyers are willing to meet asking prices without substantial negotiation.
The median days on market (DOM) of 98 days further reinforces the notion of a balanced market. While not exceptionally quick, this DOM figure is indicative of a market where homes are selling within a reasonable timeframe, suggesting that properties are priced appropriately and there is no significant oversupply. This balance between supply and demand, coupled with the high median home value and low percentage of price reductions, implies that landlords and small-portfolio investors can expect steady rental income without the need to frequently adjust property values downward.
On the rental side, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 29920 is projected at $1,530 for fiscal year 2024, while the current market rent, according to Census ACS data, is $1,053. This gap signals a potential upward trajectory for rental rates, aligning with the overall trend of increasing costs in the region. Landlords can leverage this information to justify moderate rent increases, ensuring that rental properties remain competitive and profitable.
For long-hold investors, the setup in ZIP 29920 supports a realistic appreciation thesis. The combination of a high median home value, stable pricing power, and an expected increase in rental rates suggests that property values are likely to appreciate over the next 12-24 months. However, the appreciation rate will be gradual and tied closely to the local economic conditions and the broader housing market trends. Investors should focus on maintaining quality properties and adjusting rents to stay in line with the FMR, which will help sustain and potentially grow their investment returns.
To summarize, the current market dynamics in ZIP 29920 present a scenario where landlords and small-portfolio investors can expect stable pricing power and the potential for gradual appreciation. With a median home value of $598,218, minimal price reductions, and a reasonable DOM, the market is poised for continued stability. The rental market, with its projected FMR of $1,530 and current market rent of $1,053, offers a clear path for modest rent increases, enhancing the profitability of rental investments.
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.