Location: Roberts County, TX | Metro: Hansford County, TX
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $990 |
| 1 Bedroom | $990 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,300 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,550 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,870 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,169 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,429 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,623 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,754 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 79081 presents several challenges for landlords considering Section 8 investments. Tenant turnover is a significant concern, as the market rent stands at $1,109 compared to the Federal Market Rent (FMR) of $1,150 for fiscal year 2026. This slight disparity can lead to higher turnover rates since tenants might seek properties that offer the full FMR subsidy. Additionally, vacancy exposure is a critical issue due to the lack of data on days on market (DOM), which indicates uncertainty about how quickly units will be filled once they become vacant.
The deferred maintenance exposure is another risk factor. With a typical home value of $134,524 and a median income of $68,542, homeowners may struggle to keep up with necessary repairs and upgrades, potentially leading to issues that could affect property values and desirability. The financial strain on residents can also result in increased wear and tear on rental properties, necessitating more frequent and costly maintenance.
However, these risks must be weighed against the high renter share in the area, which is 18.0%. High renter density often translates into a robust demand for rental properties, including those that accept Section 8 vouchers. This demand can help mitigate some of the risks associated with tenant turnover and vacancy exposure, as there is a larger pool of potential tenants who may be willing to move into Section 8 properties.
In conclusion, the risks in ZIP 79081 are moderate for a first-time Section 8 landlord. While tenant turnover and vacancy exposure pose challenges, the strong renter base provides a counterbalance that can support successful management of Section 8 properties.
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.