Location: Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA | Metro: Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA 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 | $1,080 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,120 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,220 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,730 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,007 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,248 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,428 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,549 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $1,220 | $313,269 | 0.39% | F |
| 3BR | $1,450 | $416,924 | 0.35% | F |
| 4BR | $1,730 | $542,398 | 0.32% | F |
| 5BR | $2,007 | $682,023 | 0.29% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 30107, located in Ball Ground, GA, within the Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA HUD Metro FMR Area, is best suited as an appreciation play in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The Federal Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $1560 for fiscal year 2024, while the current market rent stands at $2,173, indicating a significant gap where landlords can potentially increase their rental income. However, the key factor that makes this ZIP code an appreciation play is the low 0.3% price-cut share and the relatively short 48-day Days on Market (DOM).
The 0.3% price-cut share suggests that properties in this area rarely need to be discounted to sell, which is indicative of strong demand and stability in the real estate market. This low percentage also implies that once a property is listed, it is likely to sell at or near its asking price, providing a solid foundation for future appreciation.
The 48-day DOM is another positive indicator. Short DOM periods typically mean that homes are selling quickly, which can be a sign of a robust local economy and strong buyer interest. In a Section 8 context, this means that if a landlord needs to turn over a property, the process will be swift, minimizing vacancy costs and maintaining steady cash flow.
While the median home value of $485,166 might seem high compared to the FMR, it is important to note that the median income in the area is $110,811, which supports higher housing costs. Additionally, the 10.6% renter share indicates that there is a notable portion of the population that relies on renting, including those who may qualify for Section 8 assistance.
Landlords should focus on the potential for property value growth in ZIP 30107. With a stable rental market and quick sales, this area offers a strategic opportunity for long-term investment gains. The combination of a slightly above average market rent and a strong likelihood of property appreciation makes it a valuable addition to any Section 8 portfolio aiming for capital appreciation.
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.