In This Week’s “The EDGE” The EDGE Information and news that gives you an edge in the real estate business In This Week’s “The EDGE” • Houston Employment Figures Remain Strong at Mid-Year • Houston Market Movements • Homebuyer Assistance Made Easier • YPN Rising Stars Awards Deadline is Fast Approaching • Learn the Essentials “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.

Houston Employment Figures Remain Strong at Mid-Year The EDGE Information and news that gives you an edge in the real estate business Houston Employment Figures Remain Strong at Mid-Year The Houston area economy added 56,100 new jobs over the last year, one of the strongest employment reports since job growth tailed off in 2015, according to the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC). The report covered a 12-month period ending June 30. Five sectors accounted for the bulk of the gains: healthcare, education, fabricated metal products, restaurants and bars, and employment services (temporary help agencies), according to Patrick Jankowski of the Greater Houston Partnership (GHP). Houston now has 3,058,900 employed people, a new record high.

Houston Market Movements The EDGE Information and news that gives you an edge in the real estate business Houston Market Movements The primary selling season tends to begin slowing around the country at this time of year. That does not necessarily equate to less competition for available housing stock. While total sales and inventory may be lower than earlier in the year, those still looking for homes tend to match up with those willing to list. Call it a back-to-school effect or call it an active and healthy residential real estate market, no matter the season. In the Houston region, for the week ending July 16: • New Listings increased 4.2% to 3,357 • Pending Sales increased 15.6% to 2,184 • Closed Sales decreased 2.4% 1,765

Homebuyer Assistance Made Easier The EDGE Information and news that gives you an edge in the real estate business Homebuyer Assistance Made Easier The goal of the Housing & Community Development Department’s Homebuyer Assistance Program (HAP) is to provide financial assistance to qualified low-to moderate-income first-time homebuyers by covering eligible down payment and closing costs.  By providing this service, the HAP also aims to increase homeownership sustainability, positively impact the City of Houston tax base and encourage complete communities. 

YPN Rising Stars Awards Deadline The EDGE Information and news that gives you an edge in the real estate business YPN Rising Stars Awards Deadline is Fast Approaching Are you a rising star in real estate or do you have one in your ranks? This year marks the 8th Annual Young Professionals Network (YPN) ‘20 under 40 Rising Stars in Real Estate’ awards. This prestigious honor goes to 20 HAR members, aged 40 or younger, who have demonstrated excellence in sales, leadership and community involvement. For more information and an application, please visit http://ypn.har.com. The deadline to apply is Tuesday, August 8!

Matrix & MLS Platinum Tools at Houston Community College The EDGE Information and news that gives you an edge in the real estate business Learn The Essentials Matrix & MLS Platinum Tools at Houston Community College Sign up today at www.har.com/edu Questions? Call 713.629.1900 ext. 6