Location: Sharp County, AR | Metro: Fulton County, AR
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $870 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,120 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,230 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,620 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,730 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,007 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,248 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,428 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,549 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 72554 presents several challenges for potential Section 8 landlords. Firstly, tenant turnover is likely to be higher due to the significant gap between the market rent of $425 and the Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $900 for FY 2026 in the metropolitan area. This discrepancy can lead to difficulties in retaining tenants who might prefer non-subsidized housing options that better match their financial capabilities.
Vacancy exposure is another concern. With the days on market (DOM) being listed as N/A, it's unclear how quickly properties in this area are typically rented. This uncertainty can pose a risk, as prolonged vacancies can result in lost rental income and increased expenses for property management.
Deferred maintenance is also a risk factor, especially considering the typical home value of $168,484 and the median income of $42,851. The lower median income suggests that many residents may struggle to afford necessary repairs and maintenance, which can lead to higher costs for landlords who must ensure properties meet the required standards set by the Section 8 program.
However, these risks are tempered by the high concentration of renters in the area, with 10.8% of the population being renters. High renter density generally correlates with a greater demand for housing vouchers, which can provide a steady stream of tenants willing to pay the required portion of their income towards rent. This can mitigate the risk of vacancy and ensure consistent cash flow for landlords participating in the Section 8 program.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
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.