Landlord questions

[DG H.]

[b]Texas small town here. I can't figure out what's going on. I've had rentals for 5 years and this past year has been puzzling. I have had two tenants move two weeks ago BOTH had a one year lease and only stayed 6 months. I'm wondering if a year lease is worth it. I want them to think they HAVE to stay but most just break the lease.
Usually I advertise in many places and my phone rings off the hook. Not this time. They listen to the voicemail and hang up. My properties are clean blue collar priced in the mid-range. It's only been two weeks but two houses vacant and no one wanting to even look is very disturbing.
I don't want nor can I lower my rent more than about $20.00 a month. The deposit is what no one has right now.
How are others dealing and overcoming the rental pool right now. I'm also seeing a low quality in the rental pool.
Any ideas to rent the properties faster to better quality tenants?
It's amazing. Most of the tenants now expect everything but have no problem lying, not paying, breaking contracts, tearing up the property..... Where did the honest tenants go?