Homestead Exemption. The deadline to submit a homestead and all exemption applications is March 1 following the year of your home purchase.You must file with the county or city where your home is located. Each county has different applications and required documents. You must file the Transfer of Homestead Assessment Difference Form DR-501T with the homestead application Form DR-501 for your new home. Homestead exemption applications may now be filed online! Contact your local property appraiser if you have questions about your exemption. File the signed application for exemption with the county property appraiser. Complete the form online and select the state's e-file option.