Year-End Financial Tips for Florida Homeowners

Hey there Florida Homeowners! As the year starts winding down and the ocean breeze gets just a tiny bit cooler (you know, like 78° instead of 82°), it’s the perfect time to take a look at your home finances before the calendar flips. A few smart moves now can save you some serious cash next year. Grab an iced tea or maybe a mojito and let’s dive in. 

1. Check Your Homestead Exemption

If your Florida home is your primary residence, you could be eligible for the Homestead Exemption, which can lower your property taxes—sometimes by thousands.

Here’s your to-do:

• Make sure your deed and driver’s license show your Florida address.

• File or renew your exemption with your county property appraiser’s office by March 1 for the upcoming year.

• If you’ve moved recently, double-check that your new home has the exemption applied.

A few minutes of paperwork now = more cash for next year’s beach trips. 🏖️

2. Property Tax Reminders

Florida property taxes come due in November, and the earlier you pay, the bigger your discount:

• 4% off if paid in November

• 3% in December

• 2% in January

• 1% in February

So if you’ve been meaning to send that payment, it might be worth doing it sooner rather than later. Think of it as your holiday gift to future you. 🎁

3. Review Your Home Insurance

Hurricane season may be behind us, but your homeowner’s insurance still deserves a quick check-up before renewal time.

Ask yourself:

• Does your coverage still reflect your home’s true value?

• Have you added a new roof, solar panels, or made upgrades that could lower your premium?

• Are you taking advantage of all wind mitigation credits?

Florida’s insurance scene can be a bit of a rollercoaster, but staying proactive keeps you ahead of the wave.

4. Go Green with Energy-Saving Upgrades

Did you know certain energy-efficient home improvements can qualify for federal tax credits? Yup—saving the planet and trimming your tax bill sounds pretty good.

Consider upgrades like:

• Solar panels or solar water heaters ☀️

• Energy-efficient windows or doors 🪟

• Smart thermostats or new insulation to keep that cool air in

• DYK- Keys Energy offers rebates for energy efficient appliance upgrades?

Not only will your utility bills drop, but you’ll feel great knowing your home’s a little greener and more hurricane-resilient, too.

Before you swap spreadsheets for flip-flops and head to a sunset celebration, give your finances a little end-of-year TLC. A few small tweaks now can make your home life breezier (and your wallet happier) in 2026.

Here’s to sunshine, savings, and smooth sailing into the new year! 🌞⚓