Answers from broker Ryan C. Winslow
It lowers the taxable value of your primary residence by up to $50,000. The first $25,000 applies to all property taxes. The second $25,000 applies to value between $50,000 and $75,000 and excludes school taxes.
Once you have homestead, the assessed value of your home rises no more than 3 percent a year or the rate of inflation, whichever is lower. The benefit grows the longer you own the home.
You must own the home and live in it as your permanent residence on January 1. File with your county property appraiser by March 1. In Volusia County, apply through the Volusia County Property Appraiser. Tax rules change, so confirm current details before you file.
Written by Ryan C. Winslow, broker/owner of Winslow Homes. REALTOR® since 2009, 3,000+ homes sold, broker in FL, MA, CT and RI, U.S. Army retired. About Ryan.
Updated 2026-09-28. General information, not legal, tax or insurance advice.