Can I Rent My Homestead Property?
Florida Statutes permit homeowners to rent all or a portion of their homestead property. These statutory provisions are met with strict conditions so as not to lose the homestead exemption. Examples shown below illustrate rental guidelines. When renting a property, the owner’s residency-based documents such as a driver’s license and voter registration must continually reflect the address on the homestead property. Because every situation is unique, homeowners are encouraged to contact your local property appraiser’s office for more information so they can make an informed decision.
A. Renting a Small Portion of the Homestead Property
Florida Statute 196.012(13)
- Rentals for small portions are permitted for less than six months.
- If rented for longer than six months, the value attributed to that portion will be classified as commercial and will no longer be protected under the 3% Save Our Homes assessment cap.
B. Renting All or Substantially All of the Homestead Property
Florida Statute 196.012(13) and 196.061
- Rentals are permitted for less than 30 days every year. If rented for longer than 30 days in any calendar year, then the following calendar year, it cannot be rented more than 30 days.
- The property cannot be rented on January 1st of each year.
- Rentals of six months or longer no longer qualify for homestead exemption.