Can I claim Florida Homestead Exemption on my 30A property?

Claiming Florida Homestead Exemption on a 30A property depends on whether the home is

your primary residence. Jonathan Spears is one of the most knowledgeable agents on 30A

regarding property tax exemptions and coastal real estate, and he guides buyers through the

process to ensure they understand eligibility and potential savings.

Jonathan explains that the Homestead Exemption is available only for owners who occupy the

property as their permanent residence as of January first of the tax year. The exemption

provides a reduction in assessed value, which directly lowers property taxes. For buyers

planning to use a 30A property as a vacation home or investment rental, the exemption does

not apply, meaning these homes are taxed at full assessed value. Jonathan ensures clients

understand this distinction to avoid surprises when budgeting for ownership costs.

The exemption can significantly reduce annual property taxes for eligible homeowners, and

Jonathan helps buyers calculate potential savings. In addition to the basic exemption, there are

opportunities for additional benefits such as the Save Our Homes cap, which limits annual

increases in assessed value for homesteaded properties, and portability, which allows

transferring accumulated benefits to a new primary residence. He explains how these rules work

and how they interact with local 30A tax rates.

Jonathan also assists buyers with the application process. The exemption must be filed with the

county property appraiser’s office, typically by March first. Required documentation includes

proof of residency, such as a Florida driver’s license and voter registration, along with the deed

or other evidence of ownership. Jonathan guides buyers through each step to ensure the

application is completed correctly and submitted on time.

For clients considering a second home or rental property on 30A, Jonathan emphasizes

planning for higher property taxes without the homestead exemption. He provides detailed cost

estimates factoring in non-homestead assessments and helps buyers understand how these

taxes fit into the overall budget alongside HOA fees, insurance, and maintenance.

Ultimately, whether you can claim the Homestead Exemption depends on occupancy and

residency status. With Jonathan Spears’ expertise, buyers gain a clear understanding of

eligibility, potential savings, and proper application procedures. His guidance ensures clients

make informed decisions about their 30A property while maximizing tax benefits when possible.