As I step into my role as the 2026 Chair of the HAR Global Advisory Group, I want to begin by sharing something that truly reflects how I see this year: I am here to work for you. My hope is to serve, support, and walk alongside our members as we explore what global real estate can bring to our businesses.

Whether you have been part of the global community for years or you’re just beginning to explore it, there is space for you here. And I want this journey to feel inspiring, welcoming, and full of opportunity.

Houston is one of the most diverse cities in the world, and that diversity is one of our greatest strengths. Because of that, global real estate isn’t a niche — it naturally becomes part of our everyday work. Throughout our careers, many of us have helped clients from across the globe purchase homes and investment properties here in Houston. And as REALTORS®, we do far more than simply complete a transaction. We help people acclimate to a new city, understand our neighborhoods, discover the uniqueness of each area, and feel connected to the community they are joining. We become their first point of trust, introducing them to Houston’s warmth, diversity, and opportunities. That is global real estate — and it’s something we already do with passion.

Leadership That Inspires and Uplifts

A John Maxwell quote that truly resonates with me is:

“The best leaders are the ones most willing to empower others.”

This reflects exactly how I want to lead this year. Leadership is not about being the expert or having all the answers — it is about lifting others up, creating opportunities, and giving people the confidence and support they need to grow. As your Chair, my goal is to empower our members by opening doors, sharing knowledge, and helping each person discover how global real estate can enhance their business. When we empower others, we strengthen our entire community.

My Vision for 2026: Learning Together and Growing Together

HAR has an extraordinary network of members who have built thriving global businesses. Some have developed partnerships around the world, listed properties internationally, or guided clients through buying abroad. What inspires me most is how eager these professionals are to share their knowledge.

This year, my focus is to make that knowledge more accessible. I want every member to feel welcome to learn, ask questions, and build on the relationships HAR has spent years cultivating across the globe. Together, we can unlock opportunities we may not have realized were already within reach.

Quarterly Global Dinners: Opening Minds and Building Connections

Another highlight of 2026 will be our continuation of the TREPAC Global Dinners, which have been offered for a few years. These dinners are open to any member who wants to attend, and my hope is to make more people aware of them and feel genuinely invited.

Each dinner will shine a light on a different country — exploring its culture, values, lifestyle, and most importantly, how to build meaningful business relationships with clients from that region. After 27 years of working with international clients, I’ve seen how vital cultural understanding is for creating trust. My own business has recently begun expanding across borders, and it has been an exciting chapter. I want others to experience the same excitement and possibility.

What You Can Look Forward to in 2026

North American CIPS Institute – Starting February 12

A five-week online course open to members statewide and beyond. Learn more at www.har.com/edu under CIPS.

Global 2.0 Day – May 14

A day of education, international insights, and networking, followed by our Global Reception.

Quarterly Global Webinars

Featuring active global practitioners discussing markets, marketing, financing, and cultural best practices. Dates to be announced.

Monthly “Global Minute” Videos

Subscribe to the Global Business Network and receive the global minute of short updates shared each month.

The Global Information Exchange (GIE)

A powerful, free tool for all HAR MLS subscribers — an incredible way to expand your global reach. Sign up HERE.

A New Look for the HAR Global Page

Revising it in 2026 for easier access to global tools and information.

Why It All Matters

Global real estate is one of the most exciting avenues for expanding your business, broadening your network, and discovering new sources of income. And you do not have to do it alone. That’s what our committee, our community, and this year are meant to provide.

Global is local. And if you are a Houston REALTOR®, you are already part of this global story. I cannot wait to learn with you, grow with you, and help you discover the opportunities waiting far beyond the borders of your everyday business — and sometimes, even right in your own backyard.