Exemptions can reduce the taxable value of the property. You may file up to 4 exemptions.In the event of a sale of homestead property, the homestead exemption shall remain in effect for the remainder of the assessment year of the sale. This can provide asset protection from creditors for at least some of house's value. (d) A person who will be 65 years of age during the current assessment year shall be eligible to apply for the homestead exemption during that assessment year. Federal law requires that you live in the property for at least 40 months prior to the bankruptcy. The General Homestead Exemption is granted automatically in most cases. Homestead exemptions can protect a home up to a certain value of the homeowner's equity in it. Note:This analysis controlled for the homestead exemption (i.e. Dutch Kills, Queens County, NY 86241 ( Oct 30).