Location: Sharp County, AR | Metro: Lawrence County, AR
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $790 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,030 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,430 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,690 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,960 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,195 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,371 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,490 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP 72482 in Sharp County, AR, reveals several key points for potential landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The first question concerns whether the rent math works. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $920, while the current market rent, according to Census ACS data, stands at $1,047. This indicates that landlords could potentially charge above the FMR, capturing a premium of $127 per unit. However, it also suggests that tenants might seek subsidized housing options, given the gap between market rates and what they can afford.
Regarding the affordability of acquisitions, the median home value in ZIP 72482 is $124,263. Unfortunately, the data does not provide insights into the number of days on the market (DOM) or the percentage of homes that required a price cut to sell. Despite these missing metrics, the relatively low median home value presents an opportunity for investors looking to enter a market with lower barriers to entry compared to more expensive regions.
The third point of interest is the tenant demand. With a total population of 1,226 and a 9.7% renter share, there are approximately 119 renters in the area. This small pool of potential tenants means that competition for rental properties is likely to be intense among those who can afford the market rate. Given the limited population size, the demand for rental units is modest, but steady.
In summary, the rent math in ZIP 72482 supports charging above the FMR, indicating a viable premium. Acquisition costs are affordable, making it easier for investors to enter the market. Tenant demand is present but limited due to the small population size. For investors, the key consideration will be the ability to manage a smaller portfolio effectively and to target the niche of renters willing to pay the market rate. While the numbers suggest a manageable investment environment, the success will largely depend on the investor's ability to navigate local market dynamics and offer competitive rental terms.
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.