For many Florida residents, property taxes have become one of the most stressful parts of owning a home. Between rising insurance costs, higher interest rates, and increasing home values, the monthly cost of simply staying put has climbed fast. That’s why Governor Ron DeSantis’ proposal to eliminate property taxes on primary residences has struck such a strong chord across the state.
If approved by voters, this would be a major shift , and for homeowners, especially longtime residents, it could feel like real relief. Keeping thousands of dollars a year in your pocket could make the difference between feeling stretched and feeling secure, particularly for families and retirees on fixed incomes across Florida.
What This Could Mean for Florida’s Real Estate Market, Buyers, and Sellers
In housing markets throughout the state where home values have surged over the past several years, the impact could be especially meaningful. Property taxes often represent a significant ongoing expense, and removing them would make owning a primary residence far more manageable on a month-to-month basis. That added affordability could help more residents stay in their homes while continuing to attract buyers who see Florida as a long-term place to live, not just a short-term investment.
From a Florida real estate perspective, this proposal could also help support the momentum of an already strong housing market. Lower ownership costs tend to boost buyer confidence, which often leads to steady demand and resilient property values. Sellers may benefit from continued buyer interest, while buyers could feel more comfortable committing to homeownership knowing their future tax burden may be reduced or eliminated.
Of course, the conversation doesn’t end with homeowners. Local governments would need to rethink how services are funded, and those discussions matter. But at its core, this proposal reflects a growing recognition that Florida residents are feeling financial pressure , and that keeping homeownership attainable is essential to the state’s future and its real estate market.
What are your thoughts? If you’re a homeowner, how much of a difference would this make in your monthly budget? Would eliminating property taxes make you more confident about buying a home in Florida?
At the end of the day, real estate is about people, not just numbers. Policies like this one affect how we live, where we stay, and what we can plan for. I look forward to continuing the conversation with Florida homeowners as these discussions move forward.
— Natali Smigiel