The Taxpayer Relief Act provides for property tax reduction allocations to be distributed to school districts through a "homestead or farmstead exclusion." How to apply for the Homestead Exemption to reduce your Real Estate Tax bill if you own your home in Philadelphia.The Homestead Exemption reduces the taxable portion of your property assessment if you own your primary residence in Philadelphia. To receive a homestead or farmstead exclusion, a Pennsylvania resident must submit an application to the county assessor prior to March 1. The mission of the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) is to foster opportunities for businesses to grow and for communities to succeed. There is no application fee. Applications. Homestead applications may be filed from December 15 through March 1 (or the next official business day should March 1 fall on a weekend). Fill in your name and the name of other owners such as your spouse or a co-owner of the property.