Choosing Your Tax Plan Just Got Easier

With all the talk about the proposed "Super Exemption" being placed in front of Florida voters in January, there are a lot of misconceptions, and a down-right lack of understanding. I have been writing about the proposed plan for a while now, but for some of you, it just got a lot easier with property appraiser websites.

There is a new feature on the Hillsborough and Pinellas County Property Appraisers websites that allow you to calculate your taxable property value under the Super Exemption plan. While both sites are similar, there are a few minor differences. Essentially they allow you to compare the current Save Our Homes tax limitation against the proposed Super Exemption plan side by side to help give you an idea as to which plan may benefit you.

Before you go to either site, keep in mind a little professional opinion. In an "average", "stable" market, a 4% increase per year in market value is common. This will all make sense once you go to the Appraiser's site.

For Hillsborough County:
Go to the Hillsborough County Property Appraiser's Property Record Search page, linked here. Enter your name (last name, space, first name) and hit the search button. Once you find your property, click on it. Once on the page with your property info, just below the "Value Summary" you will see "Super Exemption Calculator". Click on it and a new page will pop up. The assessed value, market value and exemptions (if any) related to your property will automatically be filled in.

Now, from the drop down menu you will be asked to select a "Real Estate Appreciation" percentage. This is what I was referring to earlier. Personally, I think 4% is realistic. That's my opinion. Talk to a professional in your area for their opinion. Next, select the number of years into the future you would like to compare the plans, and hit "Calculate".

What you will see is the current Save Our Homes taxable value of your home on the left, year by year and the Super Exemption taxable value of your home on the right.

For Pinellas County:
Go to the Pinellas County Property Appraiser's main page, linked here. Less than half way down the page you will see "Super Exemption Calculator now available! Click here for complete information". After clicking that link, follow the easy instructions for finding your property. From there, this site is very similar to the directions I just gave you for Hillsborough County.

Was this information useful? Has it helped you come closer to deciding which plan is best for you? I want to here about it. Click on "Post A Comment" (below) and give me your 2 cents.