Most states offer some sort of exemption for home owners who live in their homes. In Brevard they are called homestead exemptions. This exemption is available to all home owners for their primary residence.
The standard exemption is a $25,000 reduction on the value of their home for tax purposes. This leads to a significant reduction in your yearly home owner taxes. For instance if you purchase a home at $250,000 your assessed value for taxes would be $225,000.
There is an additional $25,000 exemption which reduces the value of your home for tax purposes. That $250,000 home is now assessed at $200,000. Thus reducing your home owner’s taxes even further.
There are additional reductions of $5,000 each for widow/widowers, the blind, and the disabled.
There is also an exemption for senior citizens living on a limited fixed income. The amount of the exemption is determined by the level of income the senior has.
There are also exemptions for veterans and first responders that vary depending on the circumstances.
Finally, if you are totally and permanently disabled you are exempt from home owner taxes entirely.
Each of these exemptions are not automatic and must be applied for. You can apply online at https://www.bcpao.us/homestead/
By mail by filling out the application found here https://www.bcpao.us/docs/forms/BCPAO_CSC_02_Homestead_Exemption.pdf and sending it Brevard County Property Appraiser P O Box 429 Titusville, FL 32781-0429
Or visiting any Property Appraisers office found here https://www.bcpao.us/ContactUs.aspx?t=1.3
You must have moved in by January 1 of the year you are applying and submit your application by March 1st to qualify.
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About the Author
Debbie Caldwell
When you first meet Debbie Harris-Caldwell, you are immediately drawn to her charming Welsh accent and the twinkle in her eye. The well-traveled transplant from Wales is quick to set you at ease and time spent with her promises to be time well spent.
Debbie has been a real estate agent for 40 years and takes great pride in her customer service skills. "I make myself available to my customers when they need me, whether it's on a Sunday Evening or after their long day at work. I make my schedule fit theirs. I also keep my customers updated on everything happening with their listings or purchase, I am their conduit for information." She has built a business following her key principles of clear communication, attention to detail, client advocacy, and comprehensive knowledge of the area. Debbie comes to every new transaction with positive energy, determination, a strong understanding of the currents driving the market, and the expertise that comes from a lifetime of experience. She knows the importance of marketing and whether a home is for sale for $200,000 or for $2 million, she always has professional photography done and creates a listing presentation that best shows off her customer's home.