Location: Terry County, TX | Metro: Terry County, TX
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $770 |
| 1 Bedroom | $820 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,020 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,270 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,490 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,728 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $1,935 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,090 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,195 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The ZIP code 79378 presents several challenges for landlords considering Section 8 investments. Tenant turnover is a significant risk due to the disparity between the market rent and the $1,010 Fair Market Rent (FMR) for fiscal year 2026 in the metro area. This discrepancy can lead to higher turnover rates as tenants may seek more affordable housing options outside of the program. Additionally, vacancy exposure is a concern because the average days on market (DOM) is not available, which means landlords cannot predict how quickly they might fill vacancies. This uncertainty can be costly, especially if the property remains vacant for extended periods.
Deferred maintenance is another risk factor. The typical home value is not specified, but the median income in the area is $122,232. While this figure suggests that residents have a decent income level, it does not necessarily translate into a willingness or ability to pay for repairs and maintenance out-of-pocket. Landlords must be prepared to manage these costs themselves, which can impact overall profitability.
Despite these risks, there are mitigating factors that make Section 8 investments in ZIP 79378 potentially viable. The renter share of the population is 16.9%, indicating a high concentration of renters who may rely on vouchers to secure housing. This high renter density typically correlates with a robust demand for Section 8 properties, which can help stabilize occupancy rates and reduce the likelihood of prolonged vacancies.
Verdict: Moderate risk for a first-time Section 8 landlord.
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.