Location: Hutchinson County, TX | Metro: Hutchinson County, TX
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,060 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,480 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,780 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,065 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,313 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,498 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,623 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 79078 presents several challenges for landlords considering Section 8 investments. First, tenant turnover can be problematic due to the discrepancy between market rents and the Fair Market Rent (FMR) set at $980 for FY 2026. This could lead to difficulty in attracting tenants willing to pay the higher market rates, especially if they qualify for subsidized housing. Second, vacancy exposure is a significant concern as the days on market (DOM) are not available, indicating potential unpredictability in how quickly properties can be rented out. Third, deferred maintenance exposure is high because the typical home value and median income figures are not provided. Without these details, it's challenging to assess the financial capacity of homeowners to maintain their properties adequately, which can affect the condition of rental units.
Despite these risks, there is a silver lining in the form of a high renter density. The 1.8% renter share in ZIP 79078 suggests that there is a relatively concentrated population of renters, which often translates into a higher demand for Section 8 vouchers. This increased demand can stabilize occupancy rates and reduce the risk of prolonged vacancies.
In summary, the investment risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord in ZIP 79078 is moderate. While there are notable challenges such as tenant turnover and vacancy exposure, the presence of a high renter density provides a counterbalance that supports a stable rental market.
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.