Amendment One

I purchased a condo in 1994 and lived in it until I sold in October of 2005.

Now flushed with cash and a depressed real estate market, I wishto buy another home.

As I understand it, under Amendment One I am exempt from portability because of the timeline guise of said said amendment.

Is there any relief for me as a former homesteader. Under the proposed new buyer amendment being placed on the next ballot initiative, I am again out of luck.

What is a long time Florida resdent and willing homebuyer to do?

John,

I feel for you pal. You are right, there isn't much that a 'former' homesteader can do. The proposed amendment won't help, and like you said, portability is out of the equation. I would buy the home, and challenge the assessment with the County Property Appraiser based on today's value, not market value, but just or assessed value of the neighboring homes. You can also re-challenge a year or two from now if the market continues to decline. Persistence and a bit of luck may help big time in regards to the tax bill. Let me know if I can help.

John

http://www.floridahomesteadservices.com