The exemptions apply only to property that you own and occupy as your principal place of residence. See filing deadline info on page 2.To obtain the homestead tax exemption, application must be made in person at one of the Property Appraiser's offices. Permanent Florida residency required on January 1. Exemption applications can be downloaded from here. Be sure to check the laws of your specific state. Homestead property tax exemption forms are usually available from the tax assessor in your county. Advocate Law Groups of Florida, P.A. (M.