If you bought a home in 2010, listen up.  Its time to file your homestead exemption. 

What's a homestead exemption?

A homestead exemption removes part of the value of your residence from taxation and lowers your property taxes.  Now, that's something you don't want to miss out on. 

How do I qualify for a homestead exemption?

You qualify if you owned your home as of January 1, 2011 and use your home for your prinicipal residence.

How do I get the homestead exemption?

You file an application for the residential homestead exemption with your appraisal district.  Once you receive the exemption you do not need to reapply unless the cheif appraiser sends you a new application. 

Where do I get the application?

You can print a copy of the exemption form from your appraisal district's website or you can click here for the Jefferson County Application for Residential Exemption. 

What if I live in Orange County or Hardin County?

Don't worry.  You can print the exemption forms from The Hardin County Appraisal District Website and from The Orange County Appraisal District Website. 

The deadline to file is April 30, 2011. 

If you didn't buy a home in 2010, listen up.  There will be no better time to buy a home this year than the first quarter of 2011.  Prices are still low, there is plenty of inventory which means motivated sellers and interest rates are about to start going up so don't delay or you might be kicking yourself this summer. 

Contact me when you are ready to start your home search.