Is Florida about to cut (or even eliminate) homestead property taxes, and does it benefit homeowners?

Yes. Governor Ron DeSantis has called a special session to advance a proposal that would significantly expand homestead property tax relief, though it’s still a proposal and not a law yet. (Florida Governor's Office)

On May 27, 2026, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced a special legislative session during the week of June 1 to consider a constitutional amendment focused on property tax relief for homestead homeowners. The proposal would exempt the first $250,000 of a homestead’s value from taxation and outlines a path toward broader elimination through future law, if it clears the Legislature and then wins voter approval. A key timing detail: people establishing Florida residency after January 1, 2027 may need to maintain residency for up to five years before receiving the increased exemption.

Big Florida real estate update: a new push for property tax relief

Florida homeowners, and anyone planning to buy a primary residence here, should have this on their radar.

On May 27, 2026, Governor Ron DeSantis announced a proposal titled “Save Our Homes from Excessive Property Taxes” and called for a special session of the Florida Legislature during the week of June 1 to consider a constitutional amendment aimed at broad property tax relief for Florida homestead owners. Why the urgency? The Governor’s office points to a major rise in local property tax collections, stating revenue has increased from $32B to $60B in the past seven years, with projections reaching $83B by 2032.

What the proposal says (in plain English)

According to the Governor’s announcement, the framework includes five major components:

1) A much bigger homestead exemption (immediate impact)

• The proposal would exempt the first $250,000 of a homestead’s value from taxation and calls for a schedule to move toward full elimination through general law. 

2) “Core services” funding guardrails

• Remaining property tax revenue would be limited to “core public needs” such as public safety, education/schools, infrastructure, and natural resources. 

3) Small business protections

• The plan would limit future property tax assessments on businesses to create a more stable local tax environment. 

4) Fairness + timing rules for new residents (a major planning point)

• If you establish Florida residency after January 1, 2027, the proposal requires maintaining Florida residency for up to five years before receiving the increased homestead exemption.

5) A state trust fund concept

• A trust fund would provide grants to local governments to help continue core local services. 

The “timing” takeaway for future primary-residence buyers

If you’re relocating, retiring, or planning to make Florida your primary home in the next 12–18 months, the potential post–January 1, 2027 residency-duration requirement is the piece to watch closely as language evolves. 

This doesn’t mean you should panic, or rush a purchase that isn’t right, but it does mean it’s smart to start planning early so you’re not caught off guard if a final measure includes deadlines or qualification windows.

What happens next (and what must occur before anything changes)

This is still early-stage. Even supporters note it has multiple steps before becoming real policy.

• The proposal is being positioned for consideration in the special session (week of June 1). 
• Because it’s tied to Florida’s Constitution, it would need to reach voters and then pass with 60% voter approval to take effect. (CBS News)

Bottom line

Florida’s homestead benefits have long been a major financial advantage for primary homeowners, and this proposal, if approved, could expand that advantage dramatically. For buyers planning a Florida primary residence, the biggest opportunity right now is simple: stay informed and plan your timeline strategically as details emerge.

If you’re thinking about buying, relocating, or converting a home into your primary residence, we can help you map out the best timing and a smart purchase strategy in today’s market.

Hunt Brothers Realty
46 N Washington Blvd, Ste #3, Sarasota, FL 34236
(941) 388-7017 | info@huntbrothersrealty.com