Reaching out to potential clients is a big part of building a successful real estate business. But it’s important to make sure your outreach methods are both effective and compliant.

The Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) exists to protect people from unwanted calls, texts, and prerecorded messages. While the law has been in place since 1991, upcoming updates mean real estate professionals will need to adjust how they communicate with leads and clients.

Rather than seeing these rules as roadblocks, think of them as an opportunity to build trust with your audience. When you show clients that you respect their time and privacy, you set yourself apart as a professional who genuinely cares—and that can strengthen relationships in the long run.

What’s Changing in April 2025?

While the one-to-one consent rule (which requires consumers to name your business specifically when opting in) has been delayed until January 27, 2026, several key updates will take effect on April 11, 2025:

• Clients can opt out using any communication channel—whether by phone, text, or email.
• You must honor opt-out requests within 10 days to remain compliant.
• Penalties for non-compliance can reach up to $1,500 per violation.

For real estate professionals who rely on calls, texts, or automated messages for lead generation, this means adjusting your approach now to avoid costly mistakes later. Fortunately, staying compliant doesn’t have to be complicated when you have a plan in place.

How to Stay Compliant Without Losing Leads

If you use cold calling, auto-dialers, prerecorded messages, or text marketing in your outreach, it’s important to follow the right steps to ensure compliance:

• Get written consent before reaching out. Clients must actively agree to receive messages from your business.
• Make opting out easy. Every call, text, or email should include a simple way for people to unsubscribe.
• Check the Do Not Call (DNC) Registry before making calls. Contacting someone on this list without prior consent is a violation.
• Stick to legal calling hours. Cold calls are only allowed between 8 a.m. and 9 p.m. (local time for the recipient).

Taking these precautions not only protects your business from fines but also creates a smoother experience for potential clients. By making compliance a standard part of your outreach strategy, you can focus on building meaningful connections instead of worrying about penalties.

How to Check the Do Not Call Registry

Reaching out to engaged leads is always more effective than casting a wide net, and the Do Not Call Registry helps ensure you’re connecting with the right people. Here’s how to stay compliant:

1. Register your business at DoNotCall.gov to access the DNC database.
2. Check your contact lists at least once a month to ensure numbers are not on the DNC Registry.
3. Verify leads before calling or texting, even if you’re using a third-party platform or automated dialing system.

By making DNC checks a routine part of your process, you can avoid missteps and keep your outreach focused on people who actually want to hear from you.

Getting Consent Right (and Keeping a Record of It)

To stay compliant, written consent is the safest and best approach. Here’s an example of what that might look like:

Sample Consent Language:
“By providing your phone number, you agree to receive calls and texts from [Your Business Name] about real estate services. Consent is not required as a condition of purchase. Standard messaging rates apply.”

Where to Include It:

• Online Forms: Add this wording near the phone number field with a checkbox for consent.
• Sign-In Sheets: If you collect phone numbers at an open house, include a note stating that signing in means they agree to receive communications.
• Email Opt-Ins: If you request phone numbers via email campaigns, include the consent language near the submit button.

Just as important as getting consent is keeping a record of it. By maintaining clear documentation of who opted in, when, and how, you can easily demonstrate compliance if needed. This small but crucial step ensures you’re always prepared.

Alternative Ways to Reach Clients Without Breaking the Rules

If you’re looking for ways to connect with potential clients while staying within TCPA guidelines, consider shifting your focus to inbound marketing strategies:

• Email Marketing: Send helpful market updates, home-buying tips, and exclusive listings to those who have opted in.
• Content Marketing: Create valuable resources like neighborhood guides or homebuyer checklists to attract leads.
• Social Media & Online Ads: Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Google Ads let you reach the right audience without direct outreach.

These approaches don’t just help you stay compliant—they also create opportunities for deeper engagement. When clients come to you because they trust your insights, your business grows in a way that feels natural and sustainable.

Steps to Take Now

To make sure you’re ready for the April changes, here’s what you can do today:

1. Update your consent forms to ensure they’re clear and easy to understand.
2. Review your lead sources to confirm any purchased leads meet compliance standards.
3. Use a CRM to track permissions and manage opt-outs efficiently.
4. Train your team so everyone understands the new rules and how to follow them.
5. Audit your contact lists regularly to stay compliant with the DNC Registry.
6. Consult a legal expert if you’re unsure about any aspect of compliance.

A few simple adjustments now can save time, money, and potential headaches down the road. The more proactive you are, the smoother your transition will be.

Staying compliant with TCPA regulations doesn’t have to be complicated. By making a few key adjustments, you can continue reaching potential clients without risking penalties.

Now is the time to review your outreach strategies, update your contact processes, and ensure your team is on the same page. Taking these steps will help you stay compliant, protect your business, and build trust with your audience.