Location: Holt County, NE | Metro: Boyd County, NE
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $770 |
| 1 Bedroom | $810 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,060 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,310 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,770 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,053 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,299 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,483 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,607 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 68777, located in Holt County, NE, reveals several key points regarding its viability for Section 8 real-estate investments.
The first question to address is whether the rent math works. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area, set at $1,000 for fiscal year 2026, exceeds the current market rent of $754 according to the Census ACS. This indicates that landlords could potentially receive higher rental income through Section 8 compared to the prevailing market rates.
Secondly, the acquisition affordability must be considered. With a median home value of $178,486, the cost of entry into this market is relatively low. However, the lack of data on days on market (DOM) and the percentage of homes that required price cuts suggests a less active housing market, which might impact the speed and ease of acquiring properties. Landlords should be prepared for a slower process and possibly negotiate lower purchase prices.
Lastly, tenant demand is a crucial factor. The ZIP code has a total population of 614, with 22.4% of residents being renters. While the overall population is small, the proportion of renters indicates a steady demand for rental units. However, the limited number of potential tenants means that competition among landlords could be fierce, especially if the housing stock is limited.
In conclusion, ZIP 68777 presents an opportunity for Section 8 investments due to favorable rent math and affordable acquisitions. Despite the small population, the demand from renters is present. However, the lack of recent sales data implies caution in property acquisition strategies, and landlords should expect a competitive environment for attracting tenants. The combination of higher FMRs and lower median home values makes this area worth considering for those who can navigate the challenges of a less liquid real estate market.
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.