To qualify for a homestead, you must: Own a property, Occupy the property as your sole or primary residence, Be a Minnesota resident. Be a Minnesota resident.To apply for the residential homestead classification, you must: Complete a manufactured homestead application (PDF). This Video Shows you How to Complete an Application for Homestead Exemption. You only have until December 31st to apply for homestead for the 2023 tax year. Permanent Florida residency required on January 1. Another piece of the puzzle is the homestead reduction on your property taxes. The exempted property can't exceed one lot within a city or 40 acres in a rural area. What is a Homestead Exemption? Go the the appraiser's office.