Location: Lawrence County, AR | Metro: Independence County, AR
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $710 |
| 1 Bedroom | $760 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,000 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,660 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,926 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,157 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,330 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,447 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 72572 within Lawrence County, AR metro, reveals several key points regarding its viability for Section 8 real-estate investments.
The rent math does not work favorably. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,020. However, the absence of market rent data makes it difficult to ascertain whether this figure aligns with what tenants can afford or if it accurately reflects the rental market's conditions. This uncertainty could pose challenges for landlords aiming to balance profitability with compliance.
Regarding acquisition affordability, the lack of specific data on median home values, days on market (DOM), and the percentage of homes that require price cuts hinders a precise assessment. Without these figures, it is unclear how competitive the housing market is or if the prices are within an acceptable range for potential investors. This ambiguity could deter investment decisions due to the high risk associated with unknown costs and market dynamics.
Tenant demand is present but limited. With a total population of 360, 28.4% of which are renters, the number of potential Section 8 tenants is relatively small. This suggests that while there is a need for affordable housing, the market size is constrained, potentially leading to fewer opportunities for landlords to fill vacancies.
In summary, ZIP 72572 presents a challenging environment for Section 8 investments due to the unfavorable rent math and limited tenant demand. The lack of comprehensive data on home values and market conditions further complicates the decision-making process, increasing the risk for investors seeking stable returns.
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.