Check List – Fill out the Homestead Declaration Form completely, sign it and have it notarized. As a property owner in Florida, homestead exemption is one way to reduce the amount of real estate taxes you pay on your residential property.In order to qualify for homestead exemption, permanent Florida residency must be established as of January 1. The deadline to submit a homestead and all exemption applications is March 1 following the year of your home purchase. Ask the Clerk for a Declaration of Homestead form. Is Homestead automatic in Massachusetts? Complete Part A of Form DR-501SC, providing all of the information requested for each person residing in your homestead. State law requires that all owned or leased vehicles must be registered in the county where the owner claims homestead exemption. Proof of Ownership: In general, the recorded Deed or Co-op Proprietary Lease must be held in the name(s) of the individuals applying for Homestead.