Location: Van Zandt County, TX | Metro: Anderson County, TX
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 | $890 |
| 1 Bedroom | $980 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,200 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,570 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,770 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,053 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,299 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,483 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,607 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $1,570 | $340,220 | 0.46% | F |
| 4BR | $1,770 | $558,894 | 0.32% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
A skeptical investor might raise several concerns about investing in ZIP 75752 (Athens, TX).
Objection 1: Will Fair Market Rent (FMR) of $1,100 (metro FY 2026) cover the mortgage on a $345,618 home?
The current 30-year fixed mortgage rate is 6.30%, as of April 16, 2026. Based on this rate, the estimated monthly mortgage payment for a $345,618 home would be approximately $2,100. With an FMR of $1,100, it is unlikely that the rent alone would cover the mortgage payment.
Objection 2: Is there enough renter demand at 11.5%?
The average rent in ZIP 75752 is $990 per month, which represents a lower-than-expected demand given the 11.5% renter share. However, the renter share itself is not a direct indicator of demand; it must be considered alongside the median income, which is $62,135. This suggests that the rental market could be challenging due to the relatively low income levels.
Objection 3: Will vouchers keep pace with $1,086 market rents?
The data does not provide specific information regarding voucher amounts or their adjustment over time. However, the current average rent of $990 is below the market rent of $1,086, indicating that even without vouchers, there is a gap between what the market demands and what is currently being offered. This suggests that landlords may struggle to cover costs solely through rental income.
In summary, while ZIP 75752 offers a solid renter share, the challenges of covering mortgage payments and the potential mismatch between market rents and voucher amounts present significant hurdles. Experienced landlords with local relationships may find the market workable, but thorough research and negotiation skills are essential.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.