The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word ESTIMATES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
E
S
T
I
M
A
T
E
S
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "valuations" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case valuations = estimates.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does ESTIMATES mean?
ESTIMATES noun- A rough calculation or assessment of the value, size, or cost of something.
- (construction and business) A document (or verbal notification) specifying how much a job is likely to cost.
- An upper limitation on some positive quantity.