Florida Board of Realtors puts $10M in support of Amendment 3 for property tax relief
LEE COUNTY, Fla. —
Florida voters are divided over Amendment 3, a proposal to raise the homestead exemption to $150,000 next year, with millions of dollars being spent on campaigns ahead of the November election.
The Florida Board of Realtors has committed $10 million to support the amendment, arguing that property tax relief could make homes more affordable. “Florida Realtors supports Amendment 3 because it offers voters an opportunity to provide meaningful property tax relief while strengthening Florida’s commitment to attainable homeownership,” the organization said in a statement.
Debbie Quinn, a voter from North Fort Myers, expressed optimism about the proposal. “That’s really huge. Not just for us but for the economy of Florida,” Quinn said.
However, some voters are concerned about the financial implications. “I mean, it sounds great, but where are they going to make it up if we don’t pay taxes,” said MaryAnn Almeida, another voter from North Fort Myers.
Lee County Property Appraiser Matt Caldwell warned that local governments could impose fees to offset revenue losses. “There is nothing in the amendment that stops local governments from increasing other taxes,” Caldwell said.
Governor Ron DeSantis announced his support for Amendment 3 last week, stating, “I would just say the only sure thing for relief on the ballot will be Amendment 3 for property tax.” He is joined by other supporters, including U.S. Senator Rick Scott and Congressman Byron Donalds.
Opposition to the amendment includes both Republicans and Democrats, such as Republican Jeff Brandes, Democrat Al Lawson, and labor organizations.
Realtor Karen Montgomery noted that homebuyers are already showing interest in the possibility of lower property taxes. “With the prices down and the possibility of taxes going away, they are already interested,” Montgomery said.
A recent poll from Sachs Media shows 63% of voters support Amendment 3, which needs 60% approval to pass. Debbie Quinn shared her decision, saying, “We are definitely voting yes.”
Voters have a few weeks to decide before ballots start arriving in mailboxes.
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