Zillow’s newest report shows that about 87% of DFW homes saw estimated value declines in the past year, compared with 53% nationwide. At first glance it looks like a step backward, but most Dallas owners are still more than 50% above their purchase prices thanks to one of the strongest five year runs in the country. The cooling has been modest compared with the deeper pullbacks in metros like Austin and Phoenix, and far more dynamic than the slow growth markets in the Northeast. Inventory is now higher than it has been in years, mortgage payments have eased slightly, and buyers finally have room to negotiate. For long term investors, especially those focused on rental or Section 8 properties, this reset is creating healthier prices and better deals across North Texas. In a ten year horizon, the Dallas recalibration looks far more like an opportunity than a risk.

Every year, we re-run the numbers to make sure our strategy still holds—and this year, Dallas once again came out on top. In our latest multi-metric analysis of the 10 largest U.S. real estate markets, Dallas ranked first overall for long-term investor potential. We looked at population growth, rent yields, housing stock, appreciation, and landlord policy—and Dallas delivered across the board. But beyond the metrics, it’s the city’s consistency, resilience, and investor infrastructure that set it apart. If you’re looking for a data-backed reason to invest with confidence, this is the post you’ll want to read.

Before I check the news or pour my first cup of coffee, I’m already scanning new listings. In just a few minutes, I can usually tell whether a property is worth diving into—or whether it’s better left alone. Over time, I’ve built a quick, reliable process for evaluating investment potential at a glance: from rent-to-price ratio and property condition to flood zones, big-ticket systems, and HOA red flags. This isn’t theory—it’s the same real-world screen I use every morning to identify the best deals for our investors. Here’s how it works—and why it might change how you hunt for your next rental.