Davie Florida Homestead Exemption: How to Apply

Davie homeowners apply for the Florida homestead exemption through the Broward County Property Appraiser by filing Form DR-501 before March 1. The exemption reduces taxable value by up to $50,000, according to the Florida Department of Revenue. You must own and occupy the home as your permanent residence as of January 1 of the tax year you are claiming.

If you bought a home in Davie recently and this is your first filing, this guide walks you through every step. If you missed a prior year, late filing may be possible in limited circumstances.

What You Will Need Before You Start

Gather these before opening the Broward portal. Missing one document is the most common reason applications stall.

Ownership proof (one of the following):

• Recorded deed
• Co-op proprietary lease

Florida residency proof (two or more of the following):

• Florida driver’s license or state ID with your Davie address
• Florida vehicle registration
• Florida voter registration card
• Recent utility bill showing your name and property address

Additional information:

• Social Security numbers for all owners and spouses
• Non-U.S. citizens must provide proof of permanent residency or qualifying immigration status per Broward County Property Appraiser requirements

How Do I Apply for Homestead Exemption in Davie, FL?

Davie homeowners file for homestead exemption through the Broward County Property Appraiser, not the Town of Davie. You can apply online through Broward’s exemption portal, by mail, or in person at a Broward County Property Appraiser office. The deadline is March 1 of the tax year you want the exemption to take effect.

The Broward County Property Appraiser online portal is available for applications. Create an account, upload your documents, and submit. You will receive confirmation of your submission.

If you prefer to file in person or by mail, contact the Broward County Property Appraiser for office locations and hours. The Town of Davie does not process exemption applications.

What Is the Filing Deadline for Davie Homestead Exemption?

March 1 is the deadline to file for homestead exemption in Florida, according to the Florida Department of Revenue. The deadline applies statewide, including all Broward County properties. Late filing may be possible in limited circumstances if you can show good cause.

Contact the Broward County Property Appraiser directly if you missed the March 1 window to discuss your options.

How Much Does Homestead Exemption Save Davie Homeowners?

The exemption reduces your taxable value by up to $50,000 total, according to the Florida Department of Revenue. The first $25,000 applies to all property taxes, including school district taxes. The second $25,000 applies only to non-school taxes and only if your assessed value exceeds $50,000.

Here is what that looks like in practice. If your Davie home is assessed at $450,000 and you qualify for the full exemption, your taxable value drops to $400,000. The reduction in taxable value directly lowers your annual property tax bill.

The exemption amount is adjusted annually for inflation using the Consumer Price Index when the CPI is positive. That means your savings can grow slightly each year without any action on your part.

For a full picture of what ownership costs look like in Davie, including taxes, insurance, and closing costs, see the buying a home in Davie, Florida guide.

Step-by-Step: How to File Online Through Broward County

Step 1: Confirm you qualify.

You must own the property and occupy it as your permanent Florida residence as of January 1 of the tax year. Provide proof of ownership and residency through the documents listed above.

Step 2: Open the Broward County online exemption portal.

Go to bcpa.net and open the online homestead exemption application. Create an account if you do not have one.

Step 3: Complete Form DR-501.

The portal walks you through the official Florida Form DR-501. Enter ownership information, Social Security numbers, and residency details for all owners and spouses.

Step 4: Upload your documents.

Attach your recorded deed and at least two proof-of-residency documents. Non-U.S. citizens attach immigration status documentation at this step.

Step 5: Submit and save your confirmation.

Save your confirmation number. This is your proof of timely filing if any question arises later.

Does Homestead Exemption Renew Automatically in Broward County?

Once approved, your Broward County homestead exemption renews automatically each year as long as your ownership and residency remain the same. You do not refile unless something changes. If you sell, refinance into a trust, or change your primary residence, you are required to notify the property appraiser.

Automatic renewal creates a blind spot for some homeowners. If you move out and rent the property, the exemption must be removed. In my work with Davie owners, I see this happen most often when someone relocates for work but holds the property as an investment.

What If My Property Is Held in a Trust?

Trust ownership adds a layer of review. The Broward County Property Appraiser may require trust documentation to confirm the beneficiary occupies the home as a permanent residence. Standard deed proof alone may not be sufficient.

If your Davie home is in a revocable living trust, have the trust agreement or a certificate of trust ready when you apply. An attorney familiar with Florida property law can confirm whether your trust structure qualifies before you file.

Can I Apply for Homestead Exemption on a Condo in Davie?

Yes. Condos, co-ops, and single-family homes all qualify for homestead exemption in Florida, according to Broward County Property Appraiser guidance. Co-op owners use the proprietary lease as proof of ownership in place of a recorded deed.

You must occupy the unit as your permanent Florida residence as of January 1.

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FAQ

Can I apply for homestead exemption if I just bought a house in Davie in 2026?

Yes, if you closed before January 1, 2026, and occupied the home as your permanent Florida residence on that date. You file by March 1, 2026. If you closed after January 1, 2026, you qualify for the 2027 tax year.

Do I need a Florida driver’s license to apply?

A Florida ID or driver’s license with your Davie address is strong residency proof. Broward accepts combinations of other documents, such as voter registration and a utility bill, if your license shows a prior address. Update your license as soon as possible after moving.

What happens if I miss the March 1 deadline?

The exemption does not apply for that tax year. Late filing may be granted in specific hardship situations at the property appraiser’s discretion. Contact the Broward County Property Appraiser immediately if you missed the deadline to discuss your options.

Does homestead exemption affect my school taxes?

The first $25,000 of the exemption applies to all property taxes, including school district taxes. The second $25,000 applies only to non-school taxes. Your school tax bill is reduced by the first $25,000 only.

Can I apply if I rent out part of my Davie home?

Partial rental may affect eligibility depending on how much of the property is rented and whether you still occupy the home as your primary residence. Disclose the rental arrangement when you apply so the property appraiser can assess your specific situation.

Buying a home in Davie and want to understand the full cost picture before you close? The Davie closing costs guide and the Davie cost of living breakdown cover what to expect. For neighborhood-level context on where buyers are focused in 2026, the Davie neighborhoods guide is a good starting point.

If you want a second set of eyes on your purchase before you file anything, book a free strategy call and we will walk through it together.

Anthony Spitaleri is a real estate advisor in Davie, Florida specializing in the equestrian and luxury communities of western Broward County.