Renting Out Your Home or Using Airbnb: Effect on Your Homestead Exemption

A homestead exemption is for the home you own and live in as your main residence. Renting all or part of it can reduce or end the exemption, depending on your state's rules.

Renting the whole home

If you move out and rent the whole home, it usually stops being your homestead. Most states require you to notify the assessor, and taking an exemption you no longer qualify for can trigger back taxes, penalties and interest.

Some states set a day limit

Some states, Florida among them, set out in law how long an entire homestead can be rented before it counts as abandoned. Ask your assessor or county property appraiser before you list the whole home.

Renting a room or a unit

Renting a room, or one unit of a duplex you live in, often keeps the exemption on the part you occupy. Some states prorate the exemption to the owner-occupied share. Your assessor decides.

Short-term rentals

Platforms like Airbnb don't change the rule; the question is whether the home is still your main residence and how many days it is rented. Keep records of the dates.

FAQ

Can I Airbnb my homestead?

Sometimes, within limits. Some states, including Florida, limit how long the whole home can be rented before the exemption is lost. Ask your assessor.

Do I have to tell the assessor if I rent my home?

Usually yes if the home stops being your main residence. Not doing so can lead to back taxes and penalties.

State details: Florida

This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Your county office decides eligibility. Last reviewed Oct 23, 2026.