REAL ESTATE

Strategic Move: Strategic Mortgage Services in Costa Mesa has announced that it will perform appraisals at cost for people in the areas affected by the Jan. 17 Los Angeles earthquake.

SMS, which touts itself as the nation’s largest appraisal firm, said its personnel can provide both interior and exterior inspections, as well as a survey of the neighborhood, for people purchasing or refinancing homes.

“We understand the added burden of uncertainty an event like this creates for those in the process of buying or refinancing,” said Steve Currit, president of the appraisal division for SMS.