Location: Wilkinson County, GA | Metro: Wilkinson County, GA
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $910 |
| 1 Bedroom | $910 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,140 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,650 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,914 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,144 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,316 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,432 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The potential risks for investing in Section 8 properties in ZIP code 31090 are significant. Tenant turnover is a major concern, with market rents at $938 compared to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,120 for FY 2026 in the metro area. This discrepancy can lead to frequent changes in occupancy, increasing the administrative burden on landlords.
Vacancy exposure is another critical issue. The Days on Market (DOM) for properties in this area is not available, which can indicate either a very strong rental market where homes are quickly filled or a less stable market with unpredictable vacancy rates. Given the lack of specific data, it's prudent to assume that there could be periods of prolonged vacancies, especially if market conditions shift unfavorably.
Deferred maintenance is also a risk factor. With a typical home value of $150,481 and a median income of $77,625, many residents may struggle to afford necessary repairs and upgrades. This financial strain can result in higher maintenance costs for landlords, particularly when dealing with tenants who rely on government subsidies to cover their housing expenses.
Despite these challenges, the high renter share of 22.7% in ZIP 31090 presents a favorable opportunity. High renter density typically correlates with greater demand for housing vouchers, making it easier to find qualified tenants willing to use Section 8 vouchers. This robust tenant pool can mitigate some of the risks associated with vacancy and turnover.
In conclusion, the investment risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord in ZIP 31090 is moderate. While there are notable risks such as tenant turnover and deferred maintenance, the strong renter base provides a counterbalance that can support successful property management.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). 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.