Lately, Florida’s buzzing with talk of Governor DeSantis’s proposal to end property taxes statewide—a bold idea that’s fast becoming the headline in every real estate conversation. As someone who’s called North Florida home for nearly two decades and built my life and career here, I can’t help but approach this proposal with a mix of excitement and healthy skepticism.
Why Everyone’s Talking About It
From dinner tables to local coffee shops, the question is everywhere: “What if we didn’t have to pay property tax?” On paper, it’s a game-changer. For years, property taxes have been the bill that keeps showing up, no matter how long you’ve owned your home. In Palm Coast, the average homeowner pays about $4,000 a year in property tax if they claim a homestead exemption—and for non-homesteaded properties, the annual bite can jump to around $6,500. The thought of finally shaking off that expense feels liberating—especially for first-time buyers or retirees looking for a little extra financial breathing room.
The Upside for the Market
Let’s be real: If property taxes vanish, demand for Florida real estate could skyrocket. Lower carrying costs mean more people can buy homes, invest, or upgrade their living situations. Out-of-state buyers—already flocking to the Sunshine State for our no state income tax—may come in even greater numbers. I’ve helped growing families, retirees, and remote professionals plant their roots here, and this proposal just might widen the door for even more folks to experience what makes our community special.
Investors and house flippers would also see new opportunities. Reduced holding costs mean potential for more projects and an uptick in new listings and neighborhood revitalization. That’s great news for property values—owners might see their equity grow faster than ever.
But Here’s the Thing: We All Pay One Way or Another
It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement, but we have to be honest about the trade-offs. Property taxes fund our schools, emergency services, and local infrastructure. If we cut that revenue, the money for these essentials must come from somewhere—likely higher sales taxes or new state-level fees. That could mean every trip to the store (or buying paint for your new house!) costs a little more. It’s a shell game: the tax burden isn’t erased, just shifted around.
As a homeowner (and a dad with kids who’ll eventually ride those school buses and play in those parks), I want to believe our leaders will find creative, balanced solutions. I know firsthand the value of strong local services—not just as a dad or a real estate broker, but as a former rescue worker serving our community.
My Take: Opportunity, With Eyes Wide Open
On balance, I see the proposal as a huge positive for real estate—lower entry barriers, increased home values, and a likely flood of new interest in Florida homes. But let’s also keep a watchful eye on the fine print and make sure our community’s heart—our schools, our parks, our first responders—stay strong in the process.
If you have questions about how the changing landscape might affect your next move, let’s connect. I’m always here to help you navigate the market with the experience of a neighbor, not just an agent.
Here’s to Florida’s future—a place we all want to call home, no matter how we fund it.
Written by David Stanley, Broker Associate, Palm Coast, FL — Guiding you home with expertise, heart, and a strong cup of coffee.
