Property taxes: a guide for our readers

Property tax reform is one of the major issues before the state Legislature this year. Here are answers to frequently asked questions. Click on the title link for answers.

What is the problem with the property tax system in Florida?

What is Save Our Homes?

What's wrong with that?

How are property-tax rates determined?

What is millage?

What is a homestead exemption?

My house is valued at $200,000 and my millage rate is eight. But my taxes are a lot higher than $1,600. Why?

My county has lowered the millage rate. Why are my taxes still going up?

How much money will the tax reform proposals save me?

Why are counties and cities opposed to the House Republican plan?

How likely is it that we would do away with property taxes?

Why does it take a constitutional amendment?

School districts rely on property taxes. What impact would the House sales tax plan have on schools?

I have seen figures that show commercial property owners benefit the most under some plans. Why?

What impact does the House Republican plan have on snowbirds and owners of second homes?

Will local governments increase other taxes and fees to make up for the lost tax revenues?

What does the governor think about all this?

Why doesn't the Senate have a plan?

What about the proposal to make the Save Our Homes savings portable to another home?