To qualify for a homestead, you must: Own a property, Occupy the property as your sole or primary residence, Be a Minnesota resident. Homestead status can save you money on your property taxes.Individual taxpayer identification numbers now qualify property owners for homestead exclusion. For example, claiming an Illinois homeowner's exemption on the property would be saying you used that home as your primary dwelling place. Be a Minnesota resident. To apply for the residential homestead classification, you must: Complete a manufactured homestead application (PDF). Be a Minnesota resident. To apply for the residential homestead classification, you must: Complete a manufactured homestead application (PDF). To apply for the homestead classification for your residence, you must fill out a homestead application. To qualify for the homestead classification you must:.