We have known for quite some time that there would be a point when the market would slow. The pace of 2021 and 2022 was impossible to maintain. According to the most recent MLS statistical report, we are still ahead of pre-pandemic levels but behind last year. You may read all about it here. Days On Market has also increased by 63.2% to 62 days for single-family homes. Even still, we have heard of some areas where homes are receiving multiple offers. It’s proof that real estate really is local.

From local to global. We launched the Global Information Exchange (GIE) recently to take the place of Area 82 in the MLS, which used to have all of the international listings. Due to more stringent MLS requirements that didn’t make sense for global listings, we converted to the GIE. It is free to use, but you have to sign a subscriber agreement since it is a different platform—but still accessible in Matrix. You may read more about the GIE here.

Beginning on May 10, 2023, any member will be able to apply to run for the 2024 HAR Board of Directors. You may find out all the information about it here. We have been fortunate to have a diverse and forward-thinking board that always keeps the member at the forefront of the conversation. If you have thought about running for the board, I strongly encourage you to do so. If you have questions about it, you may ask any current board member, who will be happy to speak with you, or our board staff liaison at rozlynn.crew@har.com.

I also want to congratulate HAR member and past HAR REALTOR® of the Year Chance Brown for being appointed to the Texas Real Estate Commission. We are fortunate to have three amazing HAR members on TREC, including Leslie Lerner and Mark Woodroof. You may read more about Chance here.

While the residential sales market is experiencing a slowdown, the rental market is still showing moderate strength. As we have previously said, we now break out the rental report from the sales report to highlight the rental market during this time. You may read the latest report here.

Even though our member surveys have shown that you prefer the convenience of virtual classes, we have heard from some of you that you would like in-person classes again. Well, I have good news. You may go here to find out what classes are coming up that will be taught in person. There are classes in Sugar Land, Richmond, and Seabrook this month. Look for more in the coming months.