What to do about exemptions in your first year of ownership
The seller's exemptions do not become yours. Assume nothing carried over.
New owners often see a first bill that looks fine because it still reflects the seller's exemptions, then a second that does not.
Apply in your own name
File for the general homestead exemption for the year you occupy. Do not assume the closing handled it — closings prorate taxes, they do not transfer exemptions.
Watch for the seller's senior exemptions
If you bought from an older owner who held senior exemptions or the freeze, those end. Your bill can rise sharply for reasons that have nothing to do with your assessment. Budget for it in year two rather than being surprised.
Check what you inherited in the record
Read the property record card. You have just bought whatever errors it contains, and your purchase price is the best evidence you will ever hold for correcting them.
The first-year appeal
If you paid arm's length below the county's implied value, your first year is the strongest appeal opportunity you will have. Note the deadline the moment your first assessment notice arrives.