Alix's Real Estate Ramblings & Resources: Homestead Exemption

Welcome!

I am an Atlanta native and made the decision in 2007 to leave my job as an architect/urban planner to get my real estate license. This was a difficult decision but has been great since my very first day in my new career and I am really enjoying it! It is so rewarding helping people find that perfect home, and it allows me to continue to satiate my love of good architecture and great neighborhoods!

I attended Georgia Tech (GO JACKETS!!!!) which is where I met my husband. For almost a decade we lived in one of Atlanta's fabulous in-town neighborhoods in a great 1920's Craftsman bungalow with our two dogs and two cats. Following the birth of our first child, we bought a foreclosure in the west Buckhead area and fully renovated it using an FHA 203k loan, which was a fun and sometimes daunting process. And just prior to the birth of our second child, we purchased and renovated a home in downtown Historic Roswell, completing our personal tour of some of Atlanta's best neighborhoods to live in!

I decided to create this blog in order to share useful information and resources about the real estate market and home buying process, as well as hopefully bring some humor and levity to what is often a complex and intimidating process. Enjoy!!!

Tuesday, January 6, 2015

Homestead Exemption

If you purchased a home prior to January 1, 2015 it is time to file for Homestead Exemption. This allows for a property owner to pay decreased property taxes on their Primary Residence. Many counties allow you to file for you exemption online; however, please consult your County Website to obtain specific directions.

Some documents required for filing may include: the recorded warranty deed, the Settlement Statement, a Utility Bill, Driver’s License Number and Car Tag information. The Homeowner can file for Homestead ANY time before the due date to get the exemption for that year. Most counties require that the homeowner own the property as of January 1^st to qualify for that year. If the property is located within City limits, the homeowner may be required to file with the City as well.

Gwinnett County – deadline is April 1, 2015

770-822-8800

http://gwinnetttaxcommissioner.manatron.com/Tabs/Property/HomesteadExemption.aspx

Fulton County – deadline is April 1, 2015

404-612-6440

http://www.qpublic.net/ga/fulton/homestead_inst.html

DeKalb County – deadline is April 1, 2015

404-298-4000

http://taxcommissioner.dekalbcountyga.gov/taxcommissioner/homesteadgen.html

Cobb County – deadline is April 1, 2015

770-528-8600

http://www.cobbtax.org/property/exemptioninformation