Location: Sebring, FL | Metro: Sebring, FL MSA
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 | $860 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,000 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,230 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,860 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,158 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,417 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,610 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,741 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,000 | $95,638 | 1.05% | B |
| 2BR | $1,230 | $165,322 | 0.74% | D |
| 3BR | $1,470 | $233,074 | 0.63% | D |
| 4BR | $1,860 | $276,819 | 0.67% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
In ZIP code 33870 in Sebring, Florida, there are several potential issues that could impact a Section 8 investment. First, tenant turnover is a significant concern due to the disparity between the market rent of $1,406 and the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $1,080 for fiscal year 2024. This difference suggests that tenants might struggle to cover the rent, leading to frequent moves and higher vacancy rates.
Vacancy exposure is another critical factor. With an average Days on Market (DOM) of 35 days, landlords may face prolonged periods without rental income, especially if they encounter difficulties in finding suitable tenants. The typical home value in the area is around $205,261, which contrasts sharply with the median income of $49,942. This indicates that many residents have limited financial resources, potentially resulting in deferred maintenance issues and increased property management costs.
However, these risks must be balanced against the high concentration of renters in the area. With 31.3% of the population being renters, there is a strong likelihood of higher demand for housing vouchers. This demand can help stabilize occupancy rates and ensure a steady stream of income, even if it comes from the government rather than private tenants paying market rates.
A first-time Section 8 landlord in ZIP 33870 should be prepared for moderate risk. The challenges of tenant turnover and vacancy exposure are substantial but can be mitigated by the high renter share and corresponding demand for housing assistance.
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.