Is Florida Really Going to Eliminate Property Taxes?

 

Is Florida Really Going to Eliminate Property Taxes?

Short answer:

Maybe… but not yet — and not automatically. It’s still in process.

Current proposals do not instantly wipe out property taxes. They’re aimed at changing the system through a constitutional amendment that voters must approve before anything takes effect.

What’s Happening in Tallahassee Now

Right now, the Florida Legislature has been debating several joint resolutions that could change property taxes for homesteaded (primary residence) homes. Some of the most talked-about ideas:

✔ Completely eliminate non-school property taxes for homesteads
✔ Gradually phase out those taxes over years
✔ Provide exemptions for seniors or first-time buyers
✔ Adjust how homestead benefits transfer when moving
✔ Slow assessment increases for homesteaded properties

One major proposal — HJR 203 — would remove non-school property taxes on homesteaded homes as soon as January 1, 2027, if approved by voters.

But here’s the catch:

👉 This isn’t law yet.
👉 It still has to pass the Senate.
👉 Then it must appear on the November 2026 ballot.
👉 And it must win at least 60% voter approval.

So the proposal is moving — but it isn’t guaranteed.

What Does This Really Mean for You?

🧠 For Current Homeowners

If an amendment makes it to the ballot and passes…
• You might pay far less in property taxes starting 2027.
• But most proposals focus on non-school tax — meaning school taxes would still be collected.
• Local services (police, fire, roads) depend heavily on property tax revenue, which is why municipalities are watching this closely.

Bottom line: Real reductions are possible, but it’s not a done deal yet.

For Buyers

• Don’t assume tax bills will disappear by the time you buy — nothing is official until voters approve it.
• Still plan your budget with current property tax expectations.
• If the amendment passes, tax savings could boost (or even inflate) home values.

For Sellers

• If tax bills do roll back, demand in some neighborhoods could increase because buyers see lower cost of ownership.
• But timing matters — you don’t want to price based on speculation.
• Always plan around current, confirmed tax realities — not “if this might happen.”

Should Homeowners/Would-Be Buyers Worry?

No — but stay informed.

Right now:
• The plan is possible
• Not yet guaranteed
• And not signed into law
• Nothing affects tax bills until voter approval and implementation after 2026

That means the safest financial plan today is to base decisions on current tax rates, not future proposals — while keeping an eye on changes that may take effect in 2027 or beyond.

Wrap-Up

✅ Lawmakers are actively debating major property tax reform.
✅ The most aggressive proposals could dramatically reduce non-school property taxes.
❌ Nothing has become law yet.
📅 Voters will decide in November 2026.
🏡 Changes wouldn’t take effect until 2027 at the earliest.

Before you make a move based on what might happen, let’s look at what is happening.

Real estate decisions deserve clarity, not speculation.

Reach out anytime.

Desiree Lancaster
Keller Williams Reserve

561-716-7273