1. 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”
• CFPB Orders $4 Million in Fines
• Houston Market Movements
• Help Promote Affordable Housing
“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. CFPB Orders $4 Million in Fines
The EDGE Information and news that gives you an edge in the real estate business
CFPB Orders $4 Million in Fines
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) has ordered two West coast brokerages and two lenders to pay nearly $4 million total for alleged violations of the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA).
RESPA prohibits both paying for and receiving payment for mortgage business referrals.
Re/Max Gold Coast, of Ventura, CA, allegedly required buyers to prequalify with Prospect Mortgage, of Sherman Oaks, CA, in order for their offers to be considered by home sellers -- even if they had already prequalified with another lender.
Keller Williams Mid-Willamette, of Corvallis, OR, allegedly gave its agents bonuses for referring consumers to Prospect.
The CFPB indicated that more than 100 real estate brokers had agreements with Prospect to obtain illegal payments for referrals. Whether the agency plans to fine any other brokers is unknown.
Learn more about this story from Inman News Select.

3. Houston Market Movements
The EDGE Information and news that gives you an edge in the real estate business
Houston Market Movements
While the winter months are typically a slower time for the U.S. housing market, the beginning of each new year tends to bring a renewed interest in moving or buying. The annual January resolution effect is in full swing so far in Prices are increasing, purchase agreements are being signed, and despite record inventory lows, demand remains strong.
In the Houston region, for the week ending January 29:
• New Listings increased 1.8% to 2,450
• Pending Sales increased 19.6% to 1,799
• Closed Sales decreased 32.6% to 1,067

4. Help Promote Affordable Housing The 2017 Dog House Extravaganza
The EDGE Information and news that gives you an edge in the real estate business
Help Promote Affordable Housing
The 2017 Dog House Extravaganza
The 2017 Houston Association of REALTORS®’ TRLP class presents the Dog House Extravaganza. The purpose of this event is to raise awareness of and donations for New Hope Housing of Houston.  New Hope Housing helps build lives by building beautiful, safe housing at affordable rates. Join us for a night to delight! View custom-made dog houses provided by local Houston donors and judged by celebrity judges! Enjoy complimentary hours d’oeuvres and a silent auction. This year’s TRLP class is excited to partner with New Hope Housing because we believe everyone needs a "woof" over their head.
Date: Thursday, March 30
Promo Video:
Event Website:
Questions? Call ext. 6