One of the greatest benefits of living in Florida, aside from the beautiful weather, is the state’s strong homestead protections. These protections safeguard your primary residence from creditor claims and prevent creditors from placing a lien on the property. Homestead property also offers valuable tax benefits, such as an exemption from a portion of the property’s value for real property taxes and the “Save Our Homes” cap, which limits tax increases.

The protection doesn’t end while you’re alive. Homestead property can remain shielded from creditors after your death, as long as it’s passed on to the appropriate beneficiaries. Many homeowners seek to avoid probate on their homestead property by utilizing tools such as a lady bird deed or by placing the property into a living trust.

If you have questions about your homestead property or how to ensure these protections remain in place, our estate and elder law attorneys at Gibbons | Neuman are here to help. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how to safeguard your home.