Florida’s Property Tax Proposal: DeSantis’ Push Creates Stir

Governor DeSantis’ Push for Property Tax Reform

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is advocating for a phased elimination of property taxes aimed at benefiting local homeowners. This initiative excludes seasonal travelers and out-of-state investors, who are facing higher fiscal burdens. During a property tax roundtable in Brevard County, DeSantis addressed the taxation of wealthy individuals purchasing properties in Florida, stating, “I don’t care if they get taxed. Why would I care about giving them a tax cut? I want to help Floridians with that.”

The Impact on Snowbirds

This policy could affect the equilibrium of Florida’s seasonal economy, as it might lead to an accelerated departure of snowbirds from the state. Rising home insurance rates, homeowners association fees, and local surtaxes have already led many to sell their properties. For instance, Canadian and Northern snowbirds are selling their Florida properties, driven by these fiscal challenges.

Details of the Proposed Tax Reform

DeSantis has been pushing for the elimination of homestead property taxes in Florida since last year. Though the Florida House passed a bill for gradually increasing the homestead exemption, exempting homesteads from non-school taxes by 2037, it failed to progress in the Senate. House Joint Resolution 203 is currently stalled as a special session on property taxes has not been convened.

DeSantis’ Plan: Prioritizing Floridians

The governor aims to ensure long-term Floridians are prioritized. This includes preventing out-of-state transplants from immediately qualifying for homestead exemptions and preserving funding for law enforcement and education. DeSantis stated, “I don’t want every Tom, Dick, and Harry from out of state moving and rushing to buy a home here because they get a tax benefit.”

Effects on Residents and Fiscal Considerations

The potential elimination of property taxes would cause an increase in Florida’s general sales tax rate to compensate for revenue loss. Property taxes have surged nationwide, driven by escalating home values. Florida’s property taxes have doubled since 2019, yet the state maintains a mid-tier ranking for property tax burden. A recent survey revealed support for property tax relief among Florida voters, though an increased sales tax rate is less favored.

The Outlook for Snowbirds and Investors

If property tax reforms target non-homestead properties, maintaining second homes and investment properties in Florida will become more costly. Some snowbirds are selling their properties due to financial strain, like New Yorker Colleen Terry, who opted for Arizona after experiencing soaring taxes and fees in Florida.

The Shift Among Canadian Snowbirds

Canadian snowbirds are reducing their Florida visits. A 2025 survey indicated a decline from 82% to 70% in planned U.S. winter stays, with destinations like Mexico, Panama, and Greece becoming popular alternatives. Canada’s Royal LePage found that over half of Canadians considered selling their Florida homes, as they faced a sluggish market.

The exodus of snowbirds could disrupt Florida’s economy, affecting its tourism sector significantly. The Consul General of Canada noted the substantial tax contribution Canadian snowbirds make, emphasizing their economic importance.

Local Reaction and Potential Consequences

DeSantis’ proposal has sparked varied local reactions; some suggest that increasing taxes on non-homestead properties may lead landlords to pass costs onto tenants. Economist Joel Berner warned that the measure could favor wealthy Floridians while disadvantaging non-homeowners.

The proposal remains uncertain, with the requirement of a 60% supermajority vote to amend the state constitution. If property taxes for non-residents increase, it may challenge Florida’s image as a low-tax haven.