Florida’s Property Tax Amendment: What’s Actually on the November 3 Ballot

The short version: On November 3, 2026, Florida voters will decide on Amendment HJR 1F, the “Save Our Homes from Excessive Property Taxes” amendment. If at least 60% of voters approve it, the homestead exemption would rise from $50,000 to $150,000 on January 1, 2027, and to $250,000 on January 1, 2028. Nothing has changed yet. Property taxes in Florida are exactly the same today as they were last year.

This article is general information for buyers, sellers, and agents — it is not tax, legal, or financial advice. Agent Plus Realty is a licensed Florida real estate brokerage, not a tax advisor. The details below are current as of the date shown above; we will update this page after the election.

What is HJR 1F?

HJR 1F is a proposed amendment to the Florida Constitution. The Legislature passed it during a special session on June 2, 2026 (House 75–26, Senate 30–9), consolidating nearly a dozen competing property tax proposals into a single measure. Because it amends the Constitution, lawmakers cannot enact it on their own. It goes to voters, and it needs a 60% “yes” vote — not a simple majority — to take effect.

What would change if it passes?

The amendment would expand the homestead exemption for primary residences in two steps:

• January 1, 2027: homestead exemption rises from $50,000 to $150,000
• January 1, 2028: homestead exemption rises to $250,000
• The exemption would be indexed to inflation beginning in 2029

The expanded exemption applies to the non-school portion of your property tax bill — the part that funds cities, counties, and special districts. School district taxes would continue to be assessed. The amendment also carries a few related provisions worth knowing: it would lower the annual assessment-increase cap on non-homestead property (such as rentals and commercial) from 10% to 5%, and it would phase in the larger exemption for people who become Florida residents on or after January 1, 2027 (they would receive the current $50,000 exemption during an initial residency period before qualifying for the full amount). It also directs the Legislature to develop a framework for further reducing homestead property taxes over time, but that future schedule is not set by the amendment itself.

What would NOT change?

• Property taxes are not being eliminated. School taxes remain, and non-homestead property (rentals, second homes, commercial, vacant land) is not covered by the expanded exemption.
• Nothing changes until voters approve it. If the amendment falls short of 60%, current law stays in place.
• Nothing changes in 2026 even if it passes. The first step takes effect January 1, 2027.
• You still need to qualify for homestead. The property must be your permanent residence, and you must apply with your county property appraiser.

Why is this a big deal?

A $250,000 homestead exemption would be one of the largest property tax cuts in Florida’s history. Legislative analysis estimated the statewide revenue impact at roughly $4.6 billion in the first year (2027–28), growing to about $8.4 billion per year once the second step is fully phased in (2028–29). That is why local governments — cities, counties, and rural communities in particular — have raised concerns about funding for services like fire departments, parks, libraries, and public works. There has also been litigation over the ballot summary language. Expect a heavily contested campaign between now and November.

What does this mean if you’re buying a home in Florida?

It depends on timing and residency, and it depends on the vote.

• If you plan to make Florida your primary residence, the amendment would only benefit you if you own and occupy the home as your homestead and have filed for the exemption. The application deadline for a given tax year is generally March 1.
• If you’re buying an investment property or a second home, the expanded homestead exemption does not apply to you.
• If you’re deciding whether to wait: there is no way to know the outcome before November 3. Anyone telling you the tax cut is a sure thing is guessing.

We are not tax advisors. Before you make a purchase decision based on this amendment, talk to a Florida CPA or tax attorney and confirm the details with your county property appraiser. If you’re also weighing a move, our guide to relocating to Florida covers the practical steps.

What does this mean if you’re selling?

If the amendment passes, homestead buyers would have a stronger incentive to purchase and establish residency, particularly ahead of the 2027 and 2028 effective dates. If it fails, the market continues on its current path. Either way, a well-priced home with a clear picture of its total carrying cost — taxes, insurance, and any HOA or condo assessments — is what buyers are looking for in today’s market. For a broader read on conditions, see our 2026 Florida market outlook for agents.

Frequently asked questions

Has Florida eliminated property taxes?
No. Despite what you may have seen online, no property taxes have been eliminated. The amendment is a proposal that voters will decide on November 3, 2026.

Does the amendment cover school taxes?
No. The expanded exemption applies to non-school taxes. School district taxes would still be assessed.

Does it apply to rental properties or second homes?
No. The expanded exemption applies only to homestead property — a primary residence with an approved homestead exemption.

When would it take effect?
January 1, 2027 for the first increase, January 1, 2028 for the second, if approved by at least 60% of voters.

Do I need to do anything now?
If you own your primary residence in Florida and haven’t applied for the homestead exemption, apply with your county property appraiser. That is true regardless of how the vote turns out.

What if it doesn’t pass?
Current law stays exactly as it is: a $50,000 homestead exemption and the 3% Save Our Homes cap on annual assessment increases.

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, legal, or financial advice. Agent Plus Realty, LLC is a licensed Florida real estate brokerage, not a tax advisor. Consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation. Facts current as of the date shown above; we will update this page after the November 3, 2026 election.

Agent Plus Realty, LLC · Licensed Florida Real Estate Brokerage · CQ1048144 · Deerfield Beach · Fort Myers

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