JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis paid a visit to Jacksonville Friday morning, speaking on how he wants to help Florida homeowners save money when it comes to property taxes.

“If you’re thinking about a family of four affording when the median home price is purchased in Florida, that’s a pretty hefty tax bill right after buying a home,” DeSantis said. “And when you consider what the average is throughout the United States of America, the math just doesn’t add up.”

Frustrated that the Florida House is pushing against his plans for property tax reform, the governor came to Jacksonville side by side with homeowners, discussing the rising property taxes throughout the state.

“People flooded down here, and we’ve had a massive spike in real estate value,” he said. “As people are buying homes in particular, you have higher tax bases to pay property taxes.”

DeSantis was joined by Senator Blaise Ingoglia, speaking on how they believe a property tax cut will better serve Florida residents.

“You should never be in the situation where you have to give up your home because you can’t afford the taxes,” the governor said.

DeSantis added that many property values around the state have gone up three times their original purchase price as early as five years ago. With the Florida median home price now averaging $400,000, the increased property taxes and insurance costs are hindering those on a fixed income.

“This is supposed to be your private property, but you could own your home for 50 years and you still have to pay the government to live on your property,” DeSantis said.

To bring short-term relief, the governor is proposing sending out tax rebate checks of $1,000 to full-time homeowners.

“[This is] making sure people can own their homes free and clear, not being in a situation where they can’t afford it and potentially lose their property,” he said.

Also, the governor looks to put a tax reform amendment on the 2026 ballot that targets eliminating property taxes for lifelong homeowners.

Ingoglia mentioned how local government budgets have expanded their budgets by 60 to 120% just by collecting tax revenue.

“To say someone who’s been in their home for 30 years has to keep ponying up money, you don’t own your home if that’s the case,” DeSantis said. “If you’re going to tax something, do it at the transaction and then let people enjoy their private property.”

If backed by the Florida legislature, DeSantis said the tax rebates would be sent out by the end of 2025.