Larry Cragun is at it again…reading thousands of posts and determining which one’s cut the mustard to be nominated for his monthly Magnificent 7.   At the end of the year, he has the gynormous task of reviewing his monthly nominees from 2008 and narrowing all 84 post down to the Magnificent 7 of 2008.   I’m thankful he does this because, as much reading as I do, Larry always seems to find important consumer focused articles that I’ve missed.

It’s always an honor to be considered one of the Magnificent 7 and for June Have You Co-Signed For a Mortgage? was recognized.

Do check out my fellow nominees by visiting Real Estate Undressed…and please thank Larry for his dedication.

Hat to Dan Green of The Mortgage Reports for pointing out Blog dot Blog: a domain name created just for bloggers.  This is a chance to drive more traffic to your blog with this new url.  For example, I am registering www.mortgageporter.blog.   

Check it out–domain names will go quickly!  You can register your blog at blogdotblog.com today.

Recently I was invited to write posts on The Mortgage Cicerone.   What the heck is a Cicerone?

Cicerone – cic•e•ro•ni (-nē)

A guide for sightseers or person who is eloquent in sharing knowledge.

I’m really excited about this because I’m often asked by fellow Mortgage Professionals for help or guideance with their mortgage practice. 

The Mortgage Cicerone consists of a team of Mortgage Professionals with various backgrounds, viewpoints and opinions…all combined…just may help the fellow Mortgage Professional out during these rocky times. 

Tony, thanks so much for the invite…I’m flattered and look forward to where the Cierone may guide me.

Check it out.

With all the turmoil and continued tightening in the mortgage industry…some days can  seem a little dreary.  I especially welcome Larry Cragun’s Magnificent 7 articles for a nice diversion.  Truth be told, I always look forward to seeing what article’s Larry is recommending at Real Estate Undressed (it’s too bad he doesn’t include HIS incredible consumer articles).   He’s crawls the web and finds excellent blogs that are new to me…and maybe new to you too!

For February 2008, I’m honored to have been recognized with my post: Bait and Switch Mortgage Advertisements

In addition to my post, Larry is recommending the following consumer focused articles:

Carol Williams of Carol’s Wenatchee – Not All Home Inspections are Created Equal

Dan Melson of Searchlight Crusade – How to Get Out of Prepayment Penalties

Dan Rafter of Property Crossroads – The worst of the predators: Going After the Elderly

Jennifer Kirby of Minneapolis Real Estate Blog – Home Owners Want to be Lied To

Jeremy Hart of NRVLiving – Real Estate. Simplified. – There is Blood in the Streets – What are You Going to Do?

Nigel Swaby of Salt Lake Real Estate Blog – FHA Wants to Help You Refinance

Take a break, check out these posts and be sure to thank Larry for his time and efforts in bringing these articles and blogs to our attention.