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What do you think of the proposed Florida property tax reform?

By
Real Estate Agent with DWELL Real Estate

I would be interested in hearing what people think about the proposed Florida property tax reform. I have not read the knitty gritty details but it sounds like the bill will allow homestead portability which I am in favor of. I have also read that the new bill will put a greater tax burden on 2nd home owners, landlords and businesses which I disagree with. I do think the snowbirds or 2nd home owners get the shaft when it comes to property taxes. They are usually only here 3 or 4 months in the winter but pay proportionately more in taxes.

The state needs retirees and snowbirds to come buy property. Florida is becoming less and less attractive to snowbirds with high property taxes and insurance rates. It simply just does not seem fair to make a part time resident who uses the government services 3 or 4 months a year to pay more than a full time resident who uses them for 12 months. 

Until I read the details of the tax plan I am unsure whether to support it or not. I have read the FAR(Florida Association of Realtors) plans on supporting it. 

Any opinions? 

Becky Troutt
No longer practicing real estate as of 2008. - Bradenton, FL

I think the investors and snowbirds are still getting screwed.  They need to do something that will allow a greater tax reduction for the investors and snowbirds as well.  Otherwise, they will sell their properties here and go to other states.

In the big picture, it sounds like a good thing, but when you really look at what they are doing, they are still screwing people!  Everyone needs a fair tax break, whether they live here year round or own that property as investment, they should still get the lower taxes.  Just because they own several homes, doesn't make it fair for them to have to pay more.

The system is still flawed BIGTIME!!

Jun 16, 2007 12:50 AM
Marc Rasmussen
DWELL Real Estate - Sarasota, FL
Sarasota Real Estate
I agree with you. If what I have read in the newspaper is accurate then it is really unfair. It sounds like the lawmakers did what was best to get re-elected. Many speculate that the bill will never get passed.
Jun 16, 2007 12:53 AM
Nalliah Thayabharan
Expert Building Inspections Ltd - Markham, ON
Home Inspector - Commercial Building Inspector Toronto

Hi Marc!

Thanks for the great post.

It is always nice to have good info. Thank you, and keep posting.

Nalliah Thayabharan

Commercial and Residential Building Inspector

Expert Building Inspections Ltd

Jun 16, 2007 01:09 AM