Location: Taos County, NM | Metro: Taos County, NM
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $820 |
| 1 Bedroom | $970 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,160 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,440 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,940 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $2,250 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $2,520 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $2,722 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $2,858 |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The analysis of ZIP code 87512, located in Taos County, New Mexico, reveals several critical points for landlords and small-portfolio investors.
The first question addresses whether the rent math works. The Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the metro area in fiscal year 2026 is set at $1,050. However, the market rent data is currently unavailable, which makes it difficult to compare the FMR against actual market rates. This lack of data could indicate that the rental market in this area is not well-documented or highly competitive, potentially leading to significant variations in actual rents charged.
The second question concerns the affordability of property acquisition. The median home value in the area is also not available, nor is the typical number of days on the market (DOM) or the percentage of homes that require price reductions. Without these specific figures, it's challenging to assess how affordable it would be to acquire properties in this ZIP code. Landlords should proceed with caution and seek additional local insights before making any investment decisions.
The third question examines tenant demand. The population of ZIP 87512 is 372, and the renter share is 0.0%. This suggests an extremely low demand for rental properties, indicating that very few residents in this area are renters. This could pose a significant challenge for landlords seeking to fill units and maintain occupancy levels.
Verdict: The ZIP code 87512 presents a challenging environment for landlords and small-portfolio investors due to the lack of comprehensive market data and an exceptionally low renter share. With only 372 people in the area and zero percent of them being renters, securing tenants is likely to be difficult. Additionally, without reliable figures on median home values and the typical days on the market, assessing the cost of property acquisition remains speculative. The Fair Market Rent figure of $1,050 provides some guidance but is insufficient without context from current market rents. In conclusion, while the potential for rental income exists, the risks and uncertainties associated with this ZIP code make it a less favorable option for investment.
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.