Yarmouth Board of Assessors
Determining the fair cash value of all property in Yarmouth for equitable taxation — your property assessment starts here
Board Members
| Name | Role | Status |
|---|---|---|
| John Serijan | Member | Verify Current |
| Joseph Sullivan | Member | Verify Current |
| [Third Member] | Member | See Official Site |
Source: yarmouth.ma.us — Board of Assessors Directory | Assessors Department Page
What the Board of Assessors Does
🏡 Property Valuation
Determines the fair cash value of all real property (land and buildings) and personal property (business equipment) in Yarmouth annually. Values must be based on current market conditions and certified by the MA Department of Revenue every three years.
📋 Tax Classification
Sets the tax classification for different property types (residential, commercial, industrial, personal). Yarmouth may adopt a split tax rate, applying different rates to residential vs. commercial/industrial property — the Board recommends this annually.
🏅 Exemptions & Abatements
Administers property tax exemptions for qualifying veterans, surviving spouses, blind residents, and senior citizens. Also reviews and decides abatement applications from property owners who believe their assessment is too high.
📊 Annual Tax Rate Setting
Works with the Select Board and Finance Committee each fall to set the town’s annual tax rate based on the approved budget and total assessed valuation. The tax rate (per $1,000 of value) is certified by the DOR before tax bills are issued.
Active Issues & Current Focus
Yarmouth property values have increased dramatically in recent years due to the housing market. The Board reassesses properties to reflect current market values, which affects tax bills even if rates stay flat. Many residents have seen significant assessment increases.
The growth of Airbnb and VRBO rentals raises questions about whether short-term rentals should be assessed differently. The assessors monitor state guidance and DOR policy on how rental income affects residential property valuations.
With a large senior population, Yarmouth administers several exemption and deferral programs. The Board reviews eligibility thresholds and works with the Council on Aging to ensure qualifying seniors are aware of available relief programs.
Massachusetts requires full recertification of all property values every three years. Yarmouth’s assessors work with the town’s professional appraisal staff to complete market analyses and data reviews required for state approval.
Meetings, Appeals & Abatements
The Board of Assessors meets as needed throughout the year, particularly in the fall during tax rate setting season. Property owners who wish to appeal their assessment must file an abatement application with the Assessors’ Office within 30 days of the mailing of the first-half tax bill. Meeting agendas are posted on the town’s Agenda Center.
Property Owners: Know Your Rights
If you believe your property assessment is incorrect, you have the right to file for an abatement. Applications must be submitted to the Assessors’ Office within 30 days of the first-half tax bill. If the Board denies your abatement, you may appeal to the Massachusetts Appellate Tax Board. Exemption applications (veteran, senior, blind) are due by April 1 of the tax year. Contact the Assessors’ Office at Yarmouth Town Hall for forms and assistance.
Your Yarmouth property is reassessed every year, with a full revaluation every three years.