Location: Dade County, MO | Metro: Barton County, MO
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $720 |
| 1 Bedroom | $790 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $980 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,350 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,566 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,754 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,894 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,989 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The potential pitfalls of investing in ZIP 64759 through Section 8 housing include significant tenant turnover, which can be costly. The market rent of $818 is notably below the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $910 for the metro area in fiscal year 2026, suggesting that tenants might leave for better deals. This discrepancy increases the likelihood of frequent turnover, thereby raising costs associated with finding new tenants.
Vacancy exposure is another concern. The average number of days on market (DOM) is not available, making it difficult to predict how long properties might remain vacant. A prolonged vacancy period can significantly impact cash flow and profitability. Additionally, the deferred maintenance risk is substantial given the typical home value of $186,292 and a median income of $50,000. Landlords must be prepared to invest in property upkeep to meet Section 8 standards, which can strain finances if the rental income does not cover these additional expenses.
Despite these challenges, the high renter share of 35.7% in ZIP 64759 indicates a robust demand for rental properties, including those that accept Section 8 vouchers. This dense rental market often translates into higher competition among tenants, leading to increased interest in Section 8 properties and potentially reducing vacancy periods. Furthermore, the strong demand can stabilize the overall investment, as there will likely be a consistent pool of qualified applicants.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
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.