Location: Polk County, AR | Metro: Polk County, AR
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $670 |
| 1 Bedroom | $780 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $940 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,120 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,270 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,473 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,650 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $1,782 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $1,871 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The median home value in ZIP code 71972, located in Vandervoort, Polk County, AR, is $130,350 as of 2023. This figure provides insight into the local real estate market and can be used to assess the potential for investment opportunities. However, the data regarding market rent for this specific ZIP code is not readily available, making it challenging to directly compare against the HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $950 for the metro area, which is effective for fiscal year 2026.
To understand the dynamics of rent versus buying, we need to derive a rent-to-price ratio. Assuming the median home value of $130,350, and using the HUD FMR as a proxy for rental costs, the annual rent would be approximately $11,400 ($950 x 12 months). This represents a rent-to-price ratio of roughly 8.7%, indicating that rental income could be modest relative to the purchase price of a property. However, without specific market rent data, this comparison is speculative.
The lack of precise market rent data suggests that voucher tenants may cashflow at the HUD FMR rate of $950, but only with premium units. This means that landlords might need to offer higher-quality properties to ensure that the rental income covers their expenses and generates a profit. Given the limited availability of detailed market rent information, it's crucial to consider the potential for vacancy and the necessity to attract tenants willing to pay the FMR rate.
The strongest investor angle in ZIP code 71972 is likely to be stability. With a median home value significantly lower than the national average, there is a strong potential for long-term, stable investments. The low cost of entry into the market, combined with the HUD FMR, ensures that even if appreciation is slow, the risk of significant losses is minimized. Investors should focus on maintaining properties to ensure they remain attractive to voucher tenants, thereby securing steady cash flow and long-term stability.
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.