Location: Seattle-Bellevue, WA | Metro: Seattle-Bellevue, WA HUD Metro FMR Area
Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,810 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,890 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,210 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,880 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $3,430 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,979 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $4,456 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $4,812 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $5,053 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-07-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,890 | $332,883 | 0.57% | F |
| 2BR | $2,210 | $453,064 | 0.49% | F |
| 3BR | $2,880 | $520,343 | 0.55% | F |
| 4BR | $3,430 | $616,067 | 0.56% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
The real estate market in ZIP 98251, Gold Bar, WA, presents a unique set of conditions that landlords and small-portfolio investors should consider. The median home value stands at $480,033, indicating a stable housing market. However, the absence of data on the percentage of listings reduced and the median days on market (DOM) suggests a lack of volatility in the recent past, which can be interpreted as a sign of consistent demand and supply equilibrium.
On the rental side, the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 98251 in fiscal year 2024 is projected to be $2210, while the current market rent, according to the Census American Community Survey (ACS), is $1,791. This gap signals potential upward pressure on rental rates, aligning with the broader trend of increasing rental costs in many parts of the country. Landlords and investors who can position their properties competitively will likely see an increase in rental income, making it a favorable time to enter or hold onto the rental market.
For long-term investors, the setup in ZIP 98251 implies a realistic appreciation thesis. The combination of a stable median home value and the potential for rising rental rates suggests that property values could appreciate as demand for both ownership and rental properties increases. This scenario is particularly appealing given the low percentage of listings being reduced, which indicates a strong seller's market where homes are generally selling close to their asking price.
However, it's important to note that the lack of specific data on listing reductions and DOM does limit the ability to forecast precise changes in the market. Investors should monitor local economic indicators and any shifts in the broader housing market to adjust their strategies accordingly. Despite these limitations, the current conditions in ZIP 98251 support a positive outlook for those looking to capitalize on both ownership and rental opportunities.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-07-31). 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.