Location: Hood County, TX | Metro: Fort Worth-Arlington, TX 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 | $1,480 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,500 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,770 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,320 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,910 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,376 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,781 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,083 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $4,287 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3BR | $2,320 | $371,654 | 0.62% | D |
| 4BR | $2,910 | $465,486 | 0.63% | D |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
ZIP 76044, located in the Hood County, TX metro area, offers a strategic fit for a Section 8 portfolio due to its characteristics as a cash-flow anchor. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a one-bedroom unit in this ZIP code for fiscal year 2024 is set at $1,390. This figure closely aligns with the market rent of $1,466, indicating a minimal spread of only $76 per month. Given the median home value of $432,022, this suggests that the area has a stable housing market with rents reflecting the local economic conditions.
The tight alignment between FMR and market rent means that landlords can expect steady cash flows without significant gaps between what they receive through Section 8 vouchers and what the market demands. This stability is crucial for maintaining a balanced portfolio, especially when dealing with subsidized housing programs where rent amounts are fixed based on government guidelines.
While ZIP 76044 does present opportunities for appreciation, with a price-cut share of just 0.3% and a Days on Market (DOM) of 84 days, these factors are less compelling compared to the cash flow benefits. The low price-cut share indicates that homes are selling close to their asking prices, and the relatively short DOM suggests a brisk sales pace. However, these do not overshadow the primary role of the ZIP code as a cash-flow anchor within a Section 8 portfolio.
The median income in ZIP 76044 stands at $122,715, which is higher than many areas where Section 8 properties are typically found. This higher income level can provide some buffer against potential economic downturns, as there is a greater likelihood of residents maintaining employment and income stability.
In conclusion, ZIP 76044 is best suited as a cash-flow anchor in a Section 8 portfolio strategy. The close match between FMR and market rent ensures consistent income, while the high median income offers additional security in an otherwise stable and predictable investment environment.
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.