A new trade organization, the National Association of Mortgage Professionals Inc. (NAMP), was launched today to aid the mortgage industry and better its professionals. NAMP is dedicated to raising industry standards, boosting customer trust and confidence in members' abilities, ethics and professionalism. The group provides mortgage information, tools for managing finances, and support to those who seek information. In addition, the group's seal, the Mortgage "M" is intented to serve as "the gold stamp of approval" for the business.

NAMP offers a program that will qualify mortgage and loan professionals and ensure consumers are adequately informed when obtaining loans. The Mortgage "M" requires association members to pass a series of credential checks to verify each professional:

• Has a valid license
• Is a member in good standing
• Is continuing his education in the field
• Abides by and promoted the group's code of ethics
• Passes the background check

Credenitals will be confirmed annually, and membership in contingent on all items.

"Consumers have lost faith in the lending industry as a whole, and we need a solution in place that will improve the way people experience the loan process—NAMP does just that," explained Michael Lefevre, NAMP Founder and CEO. "By joining and promoting yourself as a Mortgage "M" professional, you will be assuring your clients a level of professionalism and trust that can only come when people in our industry adhere to the moral code of conduct required for membership in this organization."

Association members receive benefits such as being listed as a certified mmeber in the organization's directly. They also receive weekly tops and news on how to advance their careers, training and continuing education options, networking events, and more. The annual membership fee is $695; but for a llimited time, founding members can join for $495. These members will enjoy the reduced annual fee for the duration of their membership.