Department: Assessing Department
Overview: The Assessing Department helps to ensure the town’s financial stability by fairly and equitably assessing all real and personal property at its full and fair market value, as of January 1st of each year, for the purpose of taxation. The Department, a team of five employees, maintains and administers all property tax, mapping records, motor vehicle, boat excise taxes, personal, motor vehicle tax abatements, betterments and tax exemptions. The Department implements the policy decisions and direction of the Board of Assessors.
Frequently Asked Question:
Question: “Why did my assessed value increase when I did not do anything to the property?” This is easily the most frequently asked question for the Assessing Department.
Quick Answer: The assessed value represents the estimated market value of the property.
In-depth answer: The real estate market changes constantly. The assessment for Fiscal Year 2024 represents the estimate of market value as of January 1, 2023. This estimate of market value is determined by examining sales of properties from calendar year 2022. Although there may not have been any physical changes to the property, buyers may be paying more, or less, for properties than they were in previous years. The assessment changes reflect the changes in the purchase prices of comparable homes in the neighborhood. The assessments do not predict market value. They reflect (or report) market value. The real estate market can change dramatically from year to year. So, assessments reflect what buyers and sellers are doing as of the assessment date.
Highlight: Senior Means-Tested Tax Exemption
Now in its 4th year, this program looks to provide targeted property tax relief to Hingham Seniors who are homeowners and who might need help to continue to be able to afford to live in Hingham. This is a fabulous opportunity for qualified Seniors to save on their real estate taxes. The Department’s staff are more than happy to go over the details with anyone who thinks they may qualify and invite Hingham Seniors to stop in and discuss this program.
Link: Senior Means Tested Tax Exemption
Employee Spotlight
Meet Kerri Coughlin! Kerri is in her 5th year as a Data Quality Inspector in the Assessing Department.
Kerri handles a variety of tasks including reviewing permits and making sketches. She splits her time between the office and the field, ensuring permit compliance and documentation accuracy in construction projects. Her versatility and attention to detail are key to maintaining quality work in the community.
What’s Kerri’s favorite part of her role in the Assessing Department? “I really enjoy inspecting homes and meeting new people. There's something fascinating about exploring each house's details, and the bonus of connecting with different folks makes it even more enjoyable.”
As part of our efforts to make Town Government more accessible to residents, Hingham will spotlight each Town department throughout the year. Our goal is to educate citizens about the inner workings of their local administration and the many responsibilities it holds.