Location: Tillman County, OK | Metro: Lawton, OK HUD Metro FMR Area
Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $730 |
| 1 Bedroom | $770 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $940 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,290 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,798 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,014 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,175 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,284 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,290 | $198,849 | 0.65% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
A skeptical investor considering ZIP 73552 might raise several valid concerns regarding the financial viability of investing in properties there, particularly under the Section 8 program. Here's how the data addresses these points.
Objection 1: Will Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $910 cover the mortgage on a $157,433 home?
The FMR of $910 per month does not automatically guarantee that it will cover the mortgage payments on a property valued at $157,433. Mortgage costs depend heavily on interest rates and loan terms. For example, if we consider a typical 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with an average interest rate of 5%, the monthly payment on such a loan would be approximately $850. This means that the FMR could indeed cover the mortgage payments, but it leaves little room for other expenses like maintenance, insurance, and property taxes. An investor should carefully calculate their total costs to ensure profitability.
Objection 2: Is there enough renter demand at 8.6%?
The rental vacancy rate of 8.6% in ZIP 73552 suggests a moderate level of demand for rental properties. While this rate is higher than what might be considered optimal for maximizing occupancy, it still indicates that there are renters looking for homes. A vacancy rate above 5% can be seen as a warning sign, but it does not necessarily mean that there is insufficient demand. The data does not provide specific figures on the number of Section 8 eligible tenants, so it's important to research further into the local housing market and tenant demographics to understand the true demand landscape.
Objection 3: Will vouchers keep pace with $964 market rents?
The question of whether vouchers will keep up with the market rent of $964 is crucial. In ZIP 73552, the FMR is set at $910, which is slightly below the market rent. This gap means that landlords participating in the Section 8 program might face a shortfall compared to market rates. However, the Housing Choice Voucher Program adjusts its FMR annually based on economic conditions and local market dynamics. If the area experiences rising rents, it is likely that the FMR will also increase over time. Nonetheless, the data does not predict future adjustments, so investors must monitor local trends and government announcements closely.
In summary, while the data provides some insight into the challenges and opportunities in ZIP 73552, it is essential for investors to perform detailed calculations and due diligence to make informed decisions. The current FMR can cover mortgage payments but may not account for all expenses, the rental vacancy rate suggests moderate demand, and the voucher amount is slightly below market rents, requiring careful consideration of potential long-term adjustments.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). 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.