1. The EDGE Information and news that gives you an edge in the real estate business In This Week’s “The EDGE” HAR Safety Alert Tuesday, March 1 is Election Day Have a Say in Your Community Houston Market Movements Calling All Leaders! “The Edge” is a weekly tool for managers to use to inform their agents and stay current and up-to-date with important real estate industry issues. Brought to you by the HAR Communications Department.

2. The EDGE Information and news that gives you an edge in the real estate business HAR reminds you to keep valuables secured and out of sight at all times. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a theft from the offices of RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring that took place on Tuesday, February 23, around 1 p.m. The suspect is a thin, white male in his late 20s, about 6 feet tall with dark hair and a think line of facial hair. The suspect entered the office saying he wanted to buy two properties, then excused himself to use the rest room and went through every open office with a purse visible. He stole one purse and one wallet and fled in a 2014 Audi Q5. If you have any information, please contact the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office at 936.760.5800. We have more information and surveillance footage HERE.HERE We have also heard from a few female HAR members who received obscene texts from phone numbers outside the Houston area, so we want to make you aware of that as well. As always, please exercise caution during open houses, showings and throughout your work day as a real estate professional. HAR cares about your safety! HAR Safety Alert

3. The EDGE Information and news that gives you an edge in the real estate business Early Voting ended last week and if you didn’t take advantage, it’s now time to head to the polls to vote in the 2016 Primary Election on Tuesday, March 1. For information about the election, including a complete rundown of the HAR recommended candidates, please visit HAR Connect. HAR Connect Tuesday, March 1 is Primary Election Day

4. The EDGE Information and news that gives you an edge in the real estate business HAR reminds you that City of Houston Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) public meetings have begun. These meetings, held in each of the eleven city council districts, provide Houstonians with a chance to participate in the CIP process by offering comments and suggestions about needed services and improvements. The CIP includes large, long-term projects such as parks, buildings, roads and libraries. HAR encourages all REALTORS® who live or are property owners in Houston to take advantage of this important opportunity to get involved in your community and hear from our elected representatives. Houston City Council Members, Mayor Sylvester Turner and department heads will attend most of these meetings, which take place from 6:30-8:30 p.m. The complete 2016 CIP meeting schedule is available on HAR Connect.HAR Connect Have a Say in Your Community

5. The EDGE Information and news that gives you an edge in the real estate business The U.S. dollar is increasing in strength, and along with it, home sales from both domestic and foreign buyers. While homes currently on the market are performing well overall around the country, housing starts have seen a slight drop since entering 2016. In the Houston region, for the week ending February 21: New Listings increased 13.1% to 2,538 Pending Sales increased 16.9% to 1,884 Closed Sales decreased 10.8% to 975 Houston Market Movements

6. The EDGE Information and news that gives you an edge in the real estate business 2016 Texas REALTORS ® Leadership Program (TRLP) Application Deadline is March 18! Due to its overwhelming success, HAR is once again offering the opportunity to take part in an extensive eight-month leadership program. Each session equips REALTOR ® members with the tools necessary to grow both personally and professionally. Topics Include: Business Planning ∙ Time Management & Life Balance ∙ Spokesperson Training ∙ Leading Across Differences ∙ Understanding Your Leadership Style ∙ Conflict Resolution/Risk Management & Future Planning ∙ Team Building (Overnight Retreat) ∙ Law, Legislature & Leadership (Austin bus trip) Applications for the 2016 TRLP are available HERE, below the video player. You may also contact Rita Blevins at (713) 629-1900 ext. 263 or via email at rita@har.com to request an application.HERE rita@har.com Calling All Leaders!