Florida homeowners test property tax calculator as lawmakers weigh tax plan

FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK)— Florida homeowners can now see how much they could save under Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ proposed property tax plan with the launch of a new online calculator.

The calculator is part of the state’s new “Save Our Homes” website, which allows homeowners to enter their address and receive an estimate of potential savings under the governor’s proposal. The website also outlines the state’s case for property tax relief and responds to common concerns about how the plan could affect local governments and public services.

Many homeowners who used the calculator for the first time said they welcomed the possibility of relief amid rising property taxes, insurance costs, and other expenses.

Richard Below, a Lehigh Acres homeowner who has lived in Southwest Florida for more than two decades, said he believes homeowners could benefit from additional tax relief.

“Some relief would be good,” Below said. “So what DeSantis is doing in my eyes can only be positive for Florida, at least for homeowners.”

After entering his address, the calculator estimated he could save about $350 annually under the proposal.

While homeowners expressed interest in potential savings, many also raised questions about how local governments would replace revenue currently generated through property taxes.

“I would love to see it pass because I like any savings, but I’d just like to see where we’re going to make up any of our shortfalls from any of the money that was coming in taxes in the first place,” Below said.

Naples homeowner Wendy Fanaselle shared similar concerns.

“If you take away the property tax that pays for the services, then where’s the money going to come from to pay for the services?” Fanaselle said.

The state’s proposal would begin by exempting the first $250,000 of a homestead’s value from taxation, while creating a trust fund to support core services. The Save Our Homes website argues the proposal would prioritize spending on public safety, education, infrastructure, and other essential services while providing relief to homeowners.

At the same time, local government groups have raised concerns about the potential loss of revenue.

According to estimates compiled by the Florida Association of Counties, Lee County could see revenue impacts of approximately $129.7 million in fiscal year 2027-28 and $240.8 million in fiscal year 2028-29 if the proposed changes are adopted. Collier County could see impacts of approximately $62.9 million and $121.4 million over those same years, while Charlotte County could see impacts of approximately $59.2 million and $104.7 million. Hendry County could see impacts of roughly $4.8 million and $8.2 million; DeSoto County, approximately $3.7 million and $6 million; and Glades County, approximately $2.1 million and $3.3 million.

The calculator is giving homeowners a glimpse at what the proposal could mean for their own property. Whether the plan ultimately moves forward will depend on lawmakers and, potentially, Florida voters in the future.