Location: Jackson County, FL | Metro: Washington County, FL 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 | $780 |
| 1 Bedroom | $840 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $970 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,270 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,450 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,682 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,884 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,035 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,137 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $970 | $173,679 | 0.56% | F |
| 3BR | $1,270 | $240,386 | 0.53% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate market in ZIP 32420, Alford, FL, presents a nuanced picture that reflects both stability and potential growth for long-term investors. With a median home value of $197,270, the area remains accessible to a broad range of buyers, suggesting that affordability continues to be a key driver in the housing market. The recent trend of only 0.1% of listings reducing their prices indicates a strong seller's market where homeowners have pricing power. This reduction rate is minimal, implying that most sellers are maintaining or even increasing their asking prices, which is a positive sign for those looking to sell or hold properties.
The median days on market (DOM) being listed as N/A suggests either an exceptionally quick selling environment or a very low volume of sales, making it difficult to calculate an average. In either case, this points towards a robust demand for homes in Alford, FL. When combined with the low percentage of price reductions, it signals that homes are likely to sell at or near the asking price, providing a solid foundation for maintaining or slightly increasing property values.
On the rental side, the future market rent (FMR) for the metro area is projected to reach $970 by fiscal year 2026, compared to the current market rent of $773. This increase in expected rents aligns with the overall economic trends and could support higher property values as investors seek to capitalize on rising rental incomes. For long-hold investors, the setup implies a realistic appreciation thesis driven by the growing rental market, which can offset any stagnation in home value increases.
However, it's important to note that the appreciation thesis is contingent upon broader economic conditions and local employment trends. If these factors remain stable or improve, the upward trajectory in rental income could translate into increased property values. Conversely, if economic conditions deteriorate, the impact on both the rental and home value markets could be negative.
In summary, the current data points to a market where sellers retain significant pricing power due to low price reductions and potentially quick sales. For investors, the disparity between current and future market rents suggests an opportunity to benefit from rising rental incomes, which could underpin property value appreciation over the next 12-24 months. Long-term investors should focus on areas with strong rental demand and consider holding properties until the market reaches the projected FMR levels.
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.