U.S. Government Services
A PROUD RELOCATION MANAGEMENT PROVIDER TO THOSE SERVING OUR COUNTRY
Since 1984, Sirva, dba BGRS, Inc. (“BGRS”), has been a trusted advisor and partner to the nation’s top federal agencies. Our decades-long history of serving the U.S. government is backed by our unparalleled experience in conforming to both the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Federal Travel Regulation (FTR) and our deep understanding of the General Services Administration’s (GSA’s) stringent relocation policy requirements and guidelines.
Since the award of our first Government contract in 1984, we have supported 40+ federal and quasi-governmental agencies and managed more than 147,500 U.S. federal moves. We have also expertly handled 280,000 moves for the Canadian Government over the past 15 years.
OUR EXPERIENCE HAS YOU COVERED
As the relocation industry’s leading federal contractor, we offer complete, reliable relocation services in full compliance with the GSA Schedule 48 and all U.S. government contracting requirements. We value our long-standing relationship with the U.S. government and take our responsibility to the federal agencies and employees we serve seriously.
Highlighting our experience and leadership in serving the government sector, we have proudly played a key role in the following federal community forums for many years:
- Senior Executives Association (SEA) Corporate Advisory Council: Serve as an advocate for our government clients’ relocation interests to federal leaders.
- Government Relocation Advisory Board (GRAB): Served as an active member focused on transforming the relocation provisions of the FTR.
Our agency clients are governed by the highest ethical standards and quality control elements:
GOVERNMENT-TRAINED AND GOVERNMENT-CLEARED PERSONNEL:
All dedicated team members are U.S. citizens and hold or are in the process of obtaining Position of Public Trust security clearances.
STRINGENT SECURITY PROTOCOLS:
All systems, facilities, personnel, and data accessibility are U.S-based and carefully constructed to adhere to government standards and protect the sensitive information entrusted to us.
SECURE RELOCATION MANAGEMENT PORTAL:
Adheres to the highest global standards for data security with multi-factor authentication, biometrics, and user-level validation.
PROPRIETARY GCERTIFIED™ PROGRAM:
All dedicated government team members and service partners are required to participate in a Sirva, dba BGRS-developed course to learn FTR/FAR requirements and understand government culture.
Sirva, dba BGRS, Inc., stands as a steadfast and proud relocation service partner to the U.S. government. With a commitment to excellence, efficiency, and unparalleled service, we have consistently demonstrated its ability to meet the unique needs and challenges of government-sponsored relocations. Through innovative solutions, rigorous adherence to compliance, and a dedicated team of professionals, we ensure that every relocation undertaken in partnership with the U.S. government is executed with precision and care.
MORE THAN A MOVER
In addition to providing relocation management services, we play a pivotal role in supporting U.S. federal government agencies in crafting relocation strategies that seamlessly integrate with overarching talent management objectives. By leveraging our expertise and experience in mobility solutions, we ensure that relocation initiatives align closely with broader talent management goals.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION (DEI):
We help our government clients create mobility programs that prioritize DEI through services like cultural training, which is designed to introduce employees to the customs, traditions, and social norms of their new destination, helping them navigate disparate environments and foster inclusive interactions with colleagues and community members.
SPOUSE AND PARTNER ASSISTANCE:
We provide personalized services to help facilitate integration into the new community, such as mentor and support networks and career assistance, which may include resume writing and interviewing, introductions/networking opportunities, and traditional job placement services in the destination location.
CAREER ADVANCEMENT:
We support a mobile employee's career advancement through a range of relocation service solutions and policies designed to facilitate professional growth and development. We enable mobile employees to seamlessly transition to new roles and opportunities while supporting their long-term professional success within the organization.
Employee Retention:
We contribute to our government clients’ employee retention by facilitating smooth transitions and providing personalized support throughout the relocation process, enhancing job satisfaction, maintaining loyalty, and safeguarding institutional knowledge.
By connecting relocations with these critical goals, Sirva, dba BGRS, not only facilitates efficient moves but also actively contributes to the long-term success and effectiveness of U.S. federal government agencies' talent management strategies.
As we look towards the future, we remain unwavering in our dedication to facilitating seamless transitions for government employees and their families, thereby upholding our shared commitment to service, integrity, and excellence.
RELOCATION SERVICES
We have been authorized by the GSA to provide the following relocation services to the federal government under Schedule Title: Transportation, Delivery & Relocation Services; SIN 531 (Schedule 48); Contract number: GS-33F-001HA.
The following Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) outlines the Special Item Numbers (SINs) we are approved to provide to the U.S. government:
653-1 Home Sale
653-4 Entitlement Counseling
653-1B Marketing Assistance
653-5 Agency Customizes Services
653-5 Property Management
653-7 Move Management
For a complete history and listing of services, please refer to our GSA-Approved Catalog.
SUPPORTING RELOCATING EMPLOYEES WITH THE HOME BUYING PROCESS
For relocating employees, buying a home can be an exciting time, but it can also be an overwhelming part of the relocation process that requires careful planning and consideration. In this blog, we'll take a closer look at the basic process of buying a home for relocating employees and break it down into manageable steps. Whether a relocating employee is a first-time homebuyer or an experienced homeowner, these steps can provide you with valuable insights and tips to help your relocating employees navigate the process with confidence.
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Getting Mortgage PreapprovalMortgage preapproval involves getting a preliminary approval from a mortgage lender for a specific loan amount. It includes a thorough review of your employee’s financial information, including credit score, income, debt, and employment history, to determine how much money they can borrow to purchase a home. The lender will then provide a preapproval letter that outlines the loan amount and purchase price the employee is approved for and other helpful information and disclosures. This letter is crucial when making an offer on a home as it demonstrates to the seller that the relocating employee is a serious and qualified buyer. |
| Mortgage preapproval helps set the home buying budget based on what the employee can reasonably afford. It can also help identify any potential issues with credit or finances that may need to be addressed before applying for a mortgage. |
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Hiring a Home Finding AgentOne of the most valuable resources for relocating employees is a skilled real estate agent who can guide them through the home buying process. A real estate agent represents the buyer's interests, offering expertise and knowledge of the local market. They can help employees find properties that meet their specific needs and budget, while also providing insights into neighborhoods, schools, and other factors important to the decision-making process. |
| A real estate agent can help relocating employees navigate the home buying process and provide guidance and support throughout the entire transaction. They can assist with making offers, negotiating the purchase price, and reviewing contracts and legal documents to ensure everything is in order. |
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Exploring Specific NeighborhoodsFor relocating employees, it's important to focus on neighborhoods that align with their lifestyle and priorities. Different areas offer varying benefits, such as proximity to work, quality schools, and local amenities. Encouraging relocating employees to research and compare neighborhoods can help them find a location that best fits their needs. |
| Understanding the local real estate market in specific neighborhoods also provides a realistic view of available homes, their price ranges, and market conditions, making the home search more efficient and targeted and setting realistic expectations for budget and timeline. |
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Evaluating Homes in PersonTouring homes in person is crucial for relocating employees to get a true sense of the property and its condition. While online listings are helpful, they don't always capture the full picture. Visiting homes allows employees to evaluate the layout, size, and overall state of the property, which is essential for making informed decisions. |
| Attending open houses and touring properties also gives employees a better understanding of the local market. They can see what types of homes are available in their desired area, their price range, and how they compare to other homes in the neighborhood. |
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Making the Purchase OfferMaking a formal offer on a home is a critical step in the buying process which establishes the terms and conditions of the sale. The offer typically includes the proposed purchase price, any contingencies or other conditions of the sale, and a timeline for closing. The seller may accept the offer as is, reject it outright, or make a counteroffer with different terms or a different purchase price. Working closely with a real estate agent or attorney experience in relocation is vital during this stage to ensure that the offer is structured properly and meets all legal requirements. |
| The offer is a negotiation starting point with the seller, and it's essential for relocating employees to feel comfortable with the terms and confident in the support they receive from their agent or attorney. |
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Conducting Inspections and AppraisalsInspections typically involve hiring a professional inspector to assess the condition of the property and identify any issues or repairs that may need to be addressed. This can include things like the roof, foundation, plumbing, electrical systems, and more. The inspection report can provide valuable information to the buyer about the property's condition and help them decide if any repairs or renovations are necessary before finalizing the sale. Appraisals, on the other hand, involve determining the fair market value of the property. This is typically done by a licensed appraiser who considers factors like the location, size, condition, and comparable sales in the area. The appraisal report can provide valuable information to the buyer about the property's value and help them ensure they are not overpaying for the home. |
| Both inspections and appraisals are important because they can help your employees avoid potential issues and ensure they are getting a fair deal on the property. It is critical for your employees to work closely with their real estate agent or attorney to schedule these inspections and appraisals in a timely manner and carefully review the results to make an informed decision about the home purchase. |
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Receiving Final Mortgage ApprovalOnce an offer has been accepted, the final mortgage approval process begins. This stage involves a thorough review of the employee’s financial situation and the property to ensure that the mortgage is approved. The lender will verify income, employment, credit history, and conduct a final appraisal of the property if necessary. |
| Once everything checks out, the lender provides a commitment letter outlining the mortgage terms and any remaining conditions that must be met before closing. |
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ClosingThe closing is the final step in the home buying process, during which ownership of the property is officially transferred to your employee. During the closing, the employee will review and sign necessary documents, pay any associated costs, and complete the transaction. |
| It is important for employees to review all documents carefully and ask any questions they may have before signing. The seller will typically sign documents related to the transfer of ownership, including the deed and any necessary disclosures about the property. Once the paperwork is signed and the funds have been transferred, the sale is considered complete, and the employee officially becomes the new owner of the property. |
Whatever the financing needs of your transferees may be, Sirva Mortgage is here to help. With over 30 years of focus and expertise in relocation mortgage lending, we understand the important role home financing plays in the relocation process. Please visit our mortgage website to learn more or contact us at MortgageClientServices@sirva.com.
Smart. Helpful. Human. Responsible.
Sirva Mortgage is an equal opportunity lender engaged in the business of originating residential mortgage loans. We are licensed or authorized to conduct mortgage loan origination in all 50 states plus the District of Columbia. Sirva Mortgage is not a depository institution and does not act or represent itself as a full-service bank. Reference to the term “mortgage banker” is a common, accepted industry term referring to companies engaged only in the business of making mortgage loans. Various state laws and regulations and our license type(s) in various states refer to us as a mortgage lender, mortgage banker or mortgage broker. For our Privacy Policy and Affiliated business relationships disclosures please visit https://mortgage.sirva.com/about/about-sirva-mortgage. Please see the complete required license disclosure below. Call 800-531-3837 for more information.
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