Relocation (ERC) Appraisals

When an employer transfers an employee, the company or its relocation management firm often helps with the sale of the employee's current home — sometimes by guaranteeing a sale or buying the home outright. To make that buyout decision responsibly, the relocation company needs a credible, independent opinion of the home's market value. A relocation appraisal, sometimes called an ERC appraisal, is a residential appraisal prepared to meet the relocation industry's reporting expectations in addition to standard appraisal requirements.

Chartwell Valuations prepares relocation-format residential valuations for transferring employees and relocation companies across Northern Virginia and the surrounding communities communities. The appraisal is a supported opinion of value; it does not set the buyout price, which is determined by the relocation company and employer under their relocation policy.

How a Relocation Appraisal Differs

A relocation appraisal establishes market value like other residential appraisals, but it also typically addresses the home's most probable sales price and marketing considerations relevant to a corporate buyout. The report is structured for the relocation company's decision-making and may include a forecast of value over a defined marketing period, depending on the client's requirements. The intended user is the relocation company or employer, and the scope of work is shaped by that intended use. In most cases the relocation company orders the appraisal directly, so confirm with your relocation coordinator before arranging one yourself.

What the Appraisal Considers

The appraiser evaluates living area, lot size, condition, construction quality, bedroom and bathroom counts, and any renovations, then compares the home to recent comparable sales in the local market. Features that differ between the subject and the comparables are analyzed for their relationship to value, not assigned fixed amounts. Accurate condition and improvement documentation — dates and permits for major work — helps the appraiser reflect the home correctly and supports a credible value conclusion.

Information to Prepare

Documents that help include a list of recent improvements with dates and permits, HOA records where applicable, a survey or plat, and any listing history. If the home has been on the market recently, that history and any offers received are relevant to the analysis. Share whatever the relocation company requests along with standard property information.

Serving Northern Virginia and Surrounding Communities

Relocation values depend on local market activity, which varies across our region. We cover Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax County, Falls Church, Loudoun County, Prince William County, and Manassas, so comparable selection reflects the market where the transferring employee's home is located — whether an established neighborhood, a growing community, or a newer subdivision.

Request Your Relocation Appraisal Quote

If your relocation coordinator has asked for an appraisal, or you want to understand your home's value ahead of a transfer, we can help. Request a free quote online with your property details, or call 703-832-4845 to discuss the assignment with a certified residential appraiser.