Location: Borden County, TX | Metro: Borden County, TX
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $880 |
| 1 Bedroom | $900 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,150 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,410 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,720 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $1,995 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,234 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,413 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,534 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The market analysis for Section 8 investors in ZIP code 79738, located in Borden County, Texas, reveals a unique set of conditions that affect both rental income and property investment decisions.
The HUD Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area is set at $1,100 per month for FY 2026. This figure represents the maximum amount that can be charged to voucher tenants, making it a critical benchmark for landlords and small-portfolio investors. However, the lack of available data on current market rents means that we cannot directly compare the HUD FMR to what non-voucher tenants might be paying. In such cases, voucher tenants typically cashflow at the FMR rate, meaning the income covers operating costs but leaves little room for profit margins beyond basic expenses.
The median home value in ZIP 79738 is also not available, which makes deriving an exact rent-to-price ratio challenging. Nevertheless, the absence of this data does not significantly impact the decision-making process for investors focused on the rental market. The primary concern for Section 8 investors should be ensuring that the rental income meets or slightly exceeds the cost of ownership, including mortgage payments, maintenance, insurance, and taxes.
Given the limited information on local market dynamics, the analysis leans heavily on the HUD FMR as the guiding figure. Since voucher tenants are expected to pay the FMR without additional premiums, investors should focus on properties that offer stable cashflows rather than high-profit margins. The stability of cashflow is particularly important in areas where market rents are uncertain or not well documented.
The strongest investor angle in ZIP 79738 is likely stability. With the HUD FMR providing a reliable baseline for rental income, investors can count on consistent cashflows from voucher tenants, making this area suitable for those seeking a predictable and low-risk investment strategy.
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.