Location: Ravalli County, MT | Metro: Ravalli County, MT
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 | $1,120 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,190 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,460 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,020 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,440 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,830 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,170 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,424 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,595 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,190 | $475,037 | 0.25% | F |
| 2BR | $1,460 | $526,389 | 0.28% | F |
| 3BR | $2,020 | $624,499 | 0.32% | F |
| 4BR | $2,440 | $759,017 | 0.32% | F |
| 5BR | $2,830 | $858,630 | 0.33% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 59870 in Stevensville, MT presents several challenges for landlords considering Section 8 investments. Tenant turnover is a significant issue, especially when comparing the market rent of $1,100 to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,410 for fiscal year 2026 in the metro area. Landlords who set their rents below the FMR may face higher turnover rates as tenants seek properties that fully cover their rental costs with vouchers.
Vacancy exposure is another critical concern. The Days on Market (DOM) figure is not available, which makes it difficult to predict how long a property might remain vacant between tenants. This uncertainty can lead to financial strain for landlords, particularly if they are not prepared for extended periods without rental income.
Deferred maintenance poses an additional risk. With a typical home value of $615,625 and a median income of $80,325, there is potential for homeowners to delay necessary repairs due to financial constraints. This could result in properties falling below the minimum standards required by the Housing Choice Voucher program, leading to penalties or loss of tenancy.
However, these risks are somewhat mitigated by the high renter share of 15.4%. High renter density typically correlates with increased demand for rental properties, including those utilizing Section 8 vouchers. This suggests that while there are risks associated with tenant turnover and vacancy, the likelihood of finding qualified voucher holders is relatively strong.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
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.