Homeowners should contact their county assessment office (position 48) for a copy of their county's homestead and farmstead application form. You must file a new application for your new residence.This can provide asset protection from creditors for at least some of house's value. To qualify for this exemption, the applicant must be a permanent resident of Florida as of January 1st of the application year. First a little background. You will need to do the following to become a Florida resident and obtain the homestead exemption. Permanent Florida residency required on January 1. Maximize property tax benefits tailored to your location. You will need to do the following to become a Florida resident and obtain the homestead exemption. Each state has its own laws surrounding exemptions.