Location: Buffalo County, NE | Metro: Buffalo County, NE
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,060 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,060 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,680 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,160 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,506 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,807 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,032 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,184 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors targeting ZIP code 68870 in Buffalo County, Nebraska, reveals several key points that are crucial for making informed investment decisions.
The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the Buffalo County metro area, effective for fiscal year 2026, is set at $1,210. This figure serves as the benchmark for determining the rental subsidy amount that voucher holders can use towards their housing costs. However, the market rent for the area is currently unavailable, which means direct comparison to typical rental rates is not possible. In such cases, it's important to consider the local real estate trends and consult with local property managers or realtors to gauge the actual market conditions.
Voucher tenants in ZIP 68870 will generally cashflow at the FMR rate of $1,210. This means that landlords can expect to cover all operating expenses and generate a profit without needing to rely on higher-than-market rents. The median home value in the area stands at $329,290, which can be used to calculate the rent-to-price ratio. Assuming an average mortgage payment of around $1,210, the rent-to-price ratio suggests that properties in this area are reasonably priced for the expected rental income.
The median days on market (DOM) and the percentage of homes that experience price cuts are not available for this ZIP code. Nonetheless, these metrics would be valuable in assessing the broader real estate market health and the balance between renting and buying. A low DOM indicates a strong demand for homes, while a high percentage of price cuts might suggest that the market is oversupplied or facing economic challenges.
The strongest angle for investors in ZIP 68870 is likely to be stability. Given the fixed nature of HUD subsidies, investors can count on consistent rental income, which provides a reliable cash flow stream. While appreciation and cashflow are also positive aspects, the predictability of the rental income makes stability a standout advantage in this 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.