Location: Sharp County, AR | Metro: Lawrence County, AR
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $650 |
| 1 Bedroom | $690 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $910 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,210 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,470 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,705 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,910 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,063 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,166 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The potential risks for a Section 8 landlord in ZIP code 72459 are significant and should be carefully considered before investing. Tenant turnover is a critical issue, with the market rent set at $730 compared to the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $880 for fiscal year 2026 in the metropolitan area. This discrepancy suggests that tenants may leave when they find higher-paying jobs or better housing options, leading to frequent vacancies.
Vacancy exposure is another concern. The days on market (DOM) data is currently unavailable, which makes it difficult to predict how long a property might remain vacant between tenants. Vacancies can lead to lost rental income and increased management costs, affecting the overall profitability of the investment.
Deferred maintenance is also a notable risk. While the typical home value data is not available, the median income in ZIP 72459 is $39,167. This relatively low income level implies that tenants may struggle to cover the cost of maintaining the property beyond basic living expenses. Landlords must be prepared to handle any necessary repairs or upgrades without relying on their tenants' financial contributions.
Despite these risks, the high renter share of 21.3% in ZIP 72459 indicates a robust demand for rental properties, including those that accept Section 8 vouchers. A high concentration of renters often translates into a higher number of voucher holders looking for affordable housing, which can stabilize occupancy rates and reduce the likelihood of extended vacancies.
In conclusion, the risks associated with becoming a first-time Section 8 landlord in ZIP code 72459 are moderate. While challenges such as tenant turnover and deferred maintenance exist, the strong renter market provides a counterbalance that can mitigate some of these issues.
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.