We’ve been digging into reader questions for our series on Central Florida’s affordable housing crisis, and the region’s quest to provide equal and attainable housing for all. So far, we’ve learned a lot about accessory dwelling units from Ashley Z’s question and the integral part they play in addressing our housing crisis.
Next up, we’re tackling Nancy C’s question on property taxes below.
“As property taxes increase yearly on non-homestead properties, landlords are forced to pass the increase to tenants. What can be done to lower the taxes on non-homestead properties?”
We asked Mark Brewer, CEO and president of Central Florida Foundation to help us out.
He said, “This is a policy issue that voters can address with their elected officials in each county. Local governments receive most of their funding through property taxes. Rates are assessed at the local level and vary by county. Property taxes in Florida are some of the highest in the country, although there are several exemptions, non-homestead properties are not currently on the list.”
Here’s a link to find the contact information of your local elected officials.
If you have a question about affordable housing, we’d love to hear it — just fill out this form.
In the meantime, check out our previous posts on why finding housing is such a big deal in Orlando, 5 staggering facts about affordable housing right here in Central Florida, what to do when your landlord increases your rent and everything you need to know about ADUs.
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