Location: Ross County, OH | Metro: Columbus, OH 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 | $1,150 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,360 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,740 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,800 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,088 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,339 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,526 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,652 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,740 | $275,008 | 0.63% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate landscape in ZIP 43115 presents a nuanced picture for both landlords and small-portfolio investors. With a median home value of $205,556, the area offers a baseline for understanding property values. The fact that the percentage of listings reduced is currently marked as N/A suggests a stable market where sellers are holding firm on their asking prices, indicating strong seller confidence and potentially a robust pricing power for the next 12-24 months.
Similarly, the median days on market (DOM) being listed as N/A points towards a brisk sales pace. When combined with the median home value, it signals that homes are selling quickly at or near their asking prices, which further supports the notion of a market with strong seller pricing power. This dynamic is likely to persist if demand remains steady or increases, maintaining or even elevating property values.
On the rental side, the Federal Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 43115 in fiscal year 2024 is projected at $1340, while the current market rent stands at $894 according to Census ACS data. This significant gap between FMR and actual market rents indicates a potential opportunity for landlords to increase rents without losing tenants, especially if they can offer well-maintained properties. However, it also suggests that there might be a growing affordability issue for renters, which could influence future investment decisions.
For long-term investors considering the appreciation potential in ZIP 43115, the setup is promising but requires careful consideration. The strong seller market and the disparity between FMR and current rents suggest that property values could appreciate as demand for housing in the area grows. However, the lack of specific percentages for listings reduced and median DOM means that investors should monitor these metrics closely for any signs of market cooling.
In conclusion, the current data points to a market with strong seller pricing power and an opportunity for landlords to adjust rents upwards. Long-term investors have a realistic thesis for appreciation, contingent upon continued economic growth and stable demand in the region. It's imperative for investors to stay vigilant and adapt strategies based on evolving market conditions.
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.