As the saying goes, “Communication is key”—and at the Houston Association of REALTORS® (HAR), that principle drives everything we do. The Communications Department is committed to keeping members informed, engaged and connected by delivering timely, relevant information across a wide range of platforms.

Whether it’s a feature in the Houston REALTOR® magazine, an email update, a post on the Members Only Portal (MOP) or a discussion during #MemberFocusMonday, our goal is always the same: to ensure you have the information you need to succeed.

Keep reading to learn how HAR Communications keeps you “in the know.”

YOUR DIGITAL MAGAZINE EXPERIENCE

If you’re reading this, you’re already familiar with the Houston REALTOR® magazine—one of HAR’s cornerstone communica­tion tools. Since transitioning to a digital format in April 2020, the magazine has evolved into a more interactive and flexible experience.

Members can choose between a desktop reader version for enhanced navigation or a downloadable PDF for convenience. Each issue includes embedded videos and clickable links that take you directly to additional resources, making it easier than ever to engage with content and take action.

A POWERFUL SOCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE

HAR maintains a strong presence across multiple social media platforms, including Facebook, X (Twitter), Insta­gram, YouTube and LinkedIn. These channels keep members informed about the latest Association news, events and indus­try updates while also highlighting member achievements and opportunities.

One of HAR’s most popular social features is #MemberFocus­ Monday, streamed live on Facebook every Monday at 9 a.m.

This weekly segment is hosted by HAR Director of Social Media and Sponsorships Cristina Schaefer. It spotlights timely topics, important updates and conversations relevant to your business.

STAY CONNECTED ON THE GO WITH PODCASTS

HAR makes it easy to stay informed—even when you’re on the move.

  • HAR On the Move Podcast: New episodes drop every Wednesday morning, covering timely topics, trends and mem­ber insights.
  • Insights Podcast: Released every Friday, offering deeper dives into industry trends and market expertise.

Miss an episode? No problem—both podcasts are archived on HARConnect for easy access anytime.

HARCONNECT: AN INFORMATION HUB

HARConnect is HAR’s all-in-one information portal, designed to keep everything you need within reach. Here, you’ll find ac­cess to the Houston REALTOR® magazine and updates on mem­ber tools.

HARConnect also serves as a valuable archive for resources like important HAR announcements and past podcast episodes.

DELIVERING UPDATES STRAIGHT TO YOUR  INBOX

Email remains one of the most effective ways HAR communi­cates with members. Each week, you’ll receive valuable up­dates through emails such as the 5 Minute REALTOR®, The EDGE and René Galvan’s Industry Insights, along with monthly communications like MLS releases and the Houston REALTOR® magazine.

Additionally, the Communications Department supports other HAR divisions—Events, Professional Development, TREPAC, MLS and Technology—by creating and distributing targeted email campaigns to keep you informed across all areas of the Association.

If you’re not receiving these emails or need to update your preferences, be sure to subscribe to stay connected and never miss an important update.

MEDIA OUTREACH & INDUSTRY VISIBILITY

HAR’s Communications Department plays a vital role in ex­tending your reach beyond membership through strategic media outreach. The HAR Online Newsroom serves as a cen­tral hub for real estate news distributed locally, nationally and globally.

Here you’ll find our various weekly, monthly and quarterly housing reports—resources trusted by journalists, members and consumers alike.

HAR also maintains a strong presence in traditional media:

  • Weekly real estate columns written by HAR’s Chairman ap­pear in the Houston Chronicle, covering topics such as working with a REALTOR®, mortgage pre-approval and homeownership tips.
  • Additional columns by HAR leadership are featured in re­gional publications like the Galveston County Daily News.

PROMOTING REALTORS® THROUGH ADVERTISING

HAR promotes the value of working with a REALTOR® through strategic advertising efforts. These include placements in trade publications, a weekly ad in the Houston Chronicle and mul­tiple billboards across the Greater Houston area—all designed to elevate consumer awareness and reinforce the REALTOR® brand.

REAL-TIME UPDATES ON THE MOP

The Members Only Portal (MOP) is another essential communi­cation channel, providing timely and critical updates. Members can find “breaking news” such as security alerts, technology updates, obituaries and other important announcements—all  in one convenient place.

YOUR PARTNER IN COMMUNICATION

From digital publications and HARConnect to podcasts, social media, email campaigns and media outreach, HAR’s Commu­- nications Department is dedicated to keeping you informed, connected and empowered.

By leveraging these tools, you can stay ahead of industry trends, engage with your peers and continue building your success in today’s fast-paced real estate market.