Real Estate Investing in Alma, West Virginia (26320)
Everything the listing leaves out — vacancy, rent trend, cap rate, landlord climate. All free.
Should you buy in 26320 (Alma, WV)? Our answer, based on the numbers below.
Mixed — values have been flat. OK for long-horizon buyers, less attractive if you may need to sell soon.
A cash-flow market — rent-to-price math works from day one, though value growth is modest. Great for income-focused investors.
- High vacancy: 42.1% of homes vacant — above national norms.
- Flat appreciation: Values have barely moved over 5 years (0.7% CAGR).
• Limited market data — this is a very small market; averages are built from few observations and can swing widely. • Modeled rent — no observed market rent for this ZIP; the figure is estimated from HUD fair-market rent.
What’s happening in Alma, WV (26320)?
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Market Analysis: 26320 Alma
Not every below-median market is a bargain. Alma's 26320 ZIP reflects signals that favor experienced operators who can absorb the risk $93K pricing implies.
If the plan assumes clean turnover, on-time rent, and low maintenance on a $93K asset, 26320 is the wrong submarket. If the plan prices in friction, the yield can still work.
Statewide comparisons place 26320 among WV's softer markets. That context does not make the ZIP uninvestable, but it does raise the bar for due diligence.
The 26320 ZIP's population of 705 has faced economic pressure over the last decade. That pressure shows up in rent delinquency patterns that stands at the need for careful underwriting.
The 26320 ZIP fits a narrow investor profile — hands-on, patient, and willing to accept that the cap rate on paper is not the cap rate in reality.
Here's what matters if you're considering buying a home in Alma:
Market Trends
Home Value History (with trend line)
📊 How Does 26320 Compare?
| Metric | 26320 | Alma | West Virginia |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home Value | $93,283 | $93,283 | $169,372 |
| 5-Year CAGR | 0.7% | 0.7% | 6.1% |
| Avg Rent | $819 | $819 | - |
| Cap Rate | 6.9% | 6.9% | - |
Similar ZIPs Within 25 Miles
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Landlord Ground Truth
Real numbers from people who own or manage rentals in ZIP 26320 (Alma, WV). Anonymous, moderated, never written by AI.
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📊 Market Snapshot
| Home Value | $93,283 |
| Monthly Rent | $819 |
| Price-to-Rent | 9.5:1 |
| 1% Rule | ✗ Fails |
💰 Return Metrics
| Gross Yield | 10.5% |
| Cap Rate | 6.9% |
| 5-Year IRR | 7.5% |
📈 Home Appreciation
| 1-Year | +9.9% ▲ |
| 3-Year CAGR | -0.5% ▼ |
| 5-Year CAGR | +0.7% ▲ |
| 10-Year CAGR | N/A |
🏠 Rent Trends
| 1-Year | N/A |
| 3-Year CAGR | N/A |
| 5-Year CAGR | N/A |
The current 30-yr mortgage rate (6.8%) is close to the estimated cap rate (6.9%). Financing this market at current rates produces a cash-on-cash return near the cap rate. Appreciation and tax benefits may still support the investment.
⚠️ Risk Signals
Composite view of factors that can impact a ZIP's stability and your downside risk.
Demographics in 26320
Population: 705
Crime & Safety
Crime & Safety Data Coming Soon
We're integrating comprehensive crime statistics including violent crime rates, property crime, and safety scores to help you make informed investment decisions.
Expected: Q1 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do rents currently stand in Alma, WV?
Investors in Alma, WV typically see rents near $819/mo per month against $93K home values - a solid setup for rental cash flow.
What is the smart move for investors in Alma, WV?
Most investors in Alma, WV run a careful cash-flow rentals with hands-on management strategy. It aligns with the 3.0/5 investability profile and the market fundamentals.
What is the typical vacancy rate in Alma, WV?
Occupancy in Alma, WV runs consistent with elevated vacancy. Well-priced units at $819/mo lease on reasonable timelines.
Is Alma, WV landlord-friendly?
WV law landlord-friendly for landlords, and Alma inherits those rules. Investors should still review local ordinances for rental licensing.
What is the typical home price in Alma, WV?
Homes in Alma, WV typically sell near $93K. Prices have moved at a 0.0% 5-year CAGR, which measured long-term demand.
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