To claim the exemption, the homeowner must make a one-time filing with the county assessor where the property is located. Complete a homestead declaration form.We declare that we are joint owners of the following property located in the City of. How do I file a declared homestead? I just acquired my home and the prior owner already had a Homeowners' Exemption on the property. Judgment (ex: mortgages) plus (2) the amount of the homestead exemption. Eligibility. You must be a property owner, co-owner or a purchaser named in a contract of sale. New owners automatically receive an exemption claim form in the mail; there is no cost to file for the exemption. A new owner will automatically receive an exemption claim form in the mail and there is no cost to file. This is a California Counties and BOE website.