As you can see from the cover of this month’s magazine, we are honored to announce the recipients of the “20 Under 40 Rising Stars in Real Estate Awards.” The winners were selected from nominations that were submitted and were based on each real estate professional’s sales, leadership and community service.  You could not excel in only one category and make the list.  It took truly well-rounded individuals to make the cut. You may see who the honorees are and read brief bios about each of them here.

You might have heard about HAR-ETS or you might just know it as the HAR transaction management system. Either way, this HAR member benefit is becoming one of the most valuable tools for our members. Just read the comments from a variety of members  to see what their experiences have been like with the system. The overall HAR-ETS system includes the transaction management platform, powered by SureClose, as well as the ability to integrate the electronic signature from DigitalInk (a current REALTOR® benefit) or DocuSign. The early adopters represent nearly 4,500 agents with a total transaction volume of $5.4 billion in 2011. I strongly encourage you to read more about it and visit www.har.com/ets for pricing and signup information.

Each year at this time, we ask our members to volunteer for the various advisory groups and area networking meeting leadership teams.  It is a way to give back to the industry in which we each so firmly believe.  It also helps to shape where the association goes and to make a difference in the lives of so many REALTORS® and consumers alike. Go to www.har.com/GetInvolved to apply today.

As this publication goes to print, early voting has already begun and continues through Friday, November 2.  Election Day is Tuesday, November 6 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.  There are a large number of races on the ballot, including President, U.S. Senate, U.S. House, Texas Senate, Texas House, judges and more. There are also a variety of bond issues and referendums from the Metropolitan Transit Authority (METRO), City of Houston, Houston Community College System, and the Houston Independent School District.  You may find out more about HAR’s recommendations here or by visiting HARConnect.com for a complete list that you may print out and take with you to the polls.

Lastly, our monthly MLS market statistics report continues to provide insight into the greater Houston real estate landscape. Inventory continues to be depleted, with a months’ inventory figure of only 4.7 months! Sales are higher, as are sold prices, and pendings are up, which hopefully bodes well for more closings in next months’ report.

Until next month,

Wayne Stroman
2012 HAR Chairman