The Dallas rental market is still a great place for real estate investment in 2025. However, with many properties available, just listing your rental won’t ensure interest. Landlords who don’t actively generate leads risk extended vacancies and lost income. 

For example, if your property earns $2,000 each month, one week of vacancy costs $500. If the unit is empty for two months, that means $4,000 in lost income. And this doesn't include costs like renovations, utilities, and marketing.

With the stakes this high, it’s essential to be proactive to ensure your property remains occupied and profitable.

In this guide, you'll learn the best ways to generate leads for rental properties in Dallas. This includes improving your online presence, exploring offline avenues, and maybe even hiring a property management company in Dallas.

Let's dive in!

Understanding the Dallas Rental Market

The Dallas rental market continues to grow, fueled by the numerous job opportunities and steady influx of new residents. Dallas is second only to New York City for rental demand. It filled 28,000 units from February 2024 to February 2025. Average rent for a two-bedroom house sits at $2,378, while one-bedroom apartments go for $1,409. 

Despite strong rental demand, vacancy rates remain elevated at 10.6%. Analysts expect this trend to reverse in the second half of 2025 as new supply declines. Developers will complete only 38,000 new units in 2025, nearly half of the 64,000 added in 2023. With fewer new rentals available, demand will likely increase, giving landlords more control over pricing. 

Some areas experience fewer vacancies than others. That's largely because of the types of renters they attract.

For example, North Dallas suburbs like Frisco, Plano, and McKinney are popular with families. They have great schools, low crime rates, and enviable amenities.

Young professionals prefer downtown Dallas for its short commutes, nightlife options, and number of conveniences within walking distance.

Denton and Arlington, home to UNT and UTA, see strong demand from college students looking for off-campus housing. 

From May to August, rental demand in Dallas peaks as families move after the school year ends and job relocations increase. College students also begin their housing search for the fall during this time, leading to faster leasing and higher rental rates.

Vacancies are then harder to fill from September to April. This makes it important for landlords to change lease terms and prices as needed. Doing so can help avoid the off-season slump and keep occupancy high.

Online Lead Generation Strategies

Most renters start their search online, so optimizing your listings on platforms like Zillow, Apartments.com, and Trulia is key.

Good photos and engaging descriptions are important for your listing, as those with bright, clear photos get 61% more views.

Getting the word out about your property on social media is also crucial. Instagram, Facebook Marketplace, and local community groups are just a few places to start. 

Offline Lead Generation Strategies

Dallas is home to major employers like AT&T, American Airlines, and Texas Instruments. This makes it one of the best cities in the country for job relocations.

Many professionals moving to the area work with real estate agents to find housing. So, building relationships with local agents and relocation companies is a good idea. These connections can help you bring in high-quality renters at a steady pace. 

Satisfied tenants may prove to be among the best marketers for your rental property. Giving rewards, such as a gift card, cash, or a month of free rent, to current tenants can motivate them to refer friends. This encourages tenants to spread the word. 

You also shouldn't overlook more old-school marketing techniques. Consider posting flyers in high-traffic areas where renters are likely to spend time, such as:

• Gyms: John Reed, Lifetime Fitness, Barry’s, Equinox

• Coffee Shops: Houndstooth, Halcyon, Ascension, White Rhino

• University Housing Boards: Southern Methodist University, University of Texas - Arlington, University of North Texas

Small local businesses and community centers can be other great places to advertise your property.

Compliance with Dallas Rental Regulations

Before you start lead generation for rental properties, be aware of the laws in Dallas, including:

• Landlord/Tenant Law: Texas’ landlord/tenant law covers entry rights, evictions, and living space requirements, among other specifics. 

• Fair Housing Laws: Dallas landlords cannot discriminate based on race, gender, disability, religion, family status, or national origin. Avoid phrases like “perfect for young professionals” or “no children allowed” in your listing descriptions. 

• Application Fees and Security Deposits: Texas law requires landlords to clearly disclose all fees upfront. Landlords must return security deposits within 30 days of the move-out date. 

• Legal Lease Agreements: Make sure your lease agreement follows Texas laws. This protects you and your tenants. The lease agreement should cover pet fees, rent due dates, and lease terms. 

Keeping up with all the Dallas rental laws can be overwhelming, especially if you manage more than one property. A Dallas property management company can help make sure your rental process follows the law. They can assist with listing and marketing the property, tenant screening, communication, and more.

Hiring a Dallas Property Management Company to Manage Lead Generation for Rental Properties

Although it’s possible to manage lead generation for rental properties on your own, it can be time-consuming. One of the biggest advantages of letting a Dallas property management company take over is faster tenant placement.

These companies have established marketing networks, real estate connections, and relocation contacts to attract tenants. They also coordinate professional property listings, social media marketing, and paid advertising, ensuring your listing reaches the right people. Once someone shows interest, they check backgrounds and credit. This helps locate great tenants.

When picking a property management company in Dallas, check their license. Also, investigate how much local market experience they have. Knowledgable, experienced, and local companies will probably be your best bed.

These companies typically charge 8-12% of the monthly rent. There may be extra fees for maintenance or leasing. So be sure to review their services and contracts carefully before you decide.

Wrapping Up: Lead Generation for Rental Properties in Dallas

Minimizing vacancies and maximizing your ROI in Dallas requires a mix of online and offline lead generation strategies.

Good rental listings and social media marketing are a good first step in attracting quality tenants. Don't overlook the value of offline marketing methods, either. Posting flyers in busy areas or networking can go a long way, too. 

Seasonal price changes and referral rewards can further lower vacancies.

Ultimately, combining both online and offline tactics gives you the best chance at keeping your unit occupied. But it’s equally important to stay compliant with tenant/landlord and fair housing laws throughout the rental process.

Managing everything by yourself can be stressful and tedious, though. Dallas property management companies like Evernest specialize in lead generation for rental properties. Beyond that, we provide tenant screening, placement, and everyday tasks like maintenance. Contact Evernest today to fill your vacancies quickly and keep your passive income coming in.