In Florida, intangible tax on new mortgages is:
Audio Lesson
Duration: 2:58
Question & Answer
Review the question and all answer choices
$0.50 per $100
Answer A is incorrect because $0.50 per $100 represents a higher tax rate than Florida actually imposes. This might be confused with tax rates in other states or with documentary stamp taxes on mortgages, which are different.
$0.35 per $100
Answer B is incorrect because $0.35 per $100 does not match Florida's specific intangible tax rate. This might be a distractor based on outdated information or rates from other jurisdictions.
$0.20 per $100 (2 mills)
Not required
Answer D is incorrect because Florida does require intangible tax on new mortgages. This misconception might arise from confusion with states that don't impose this tax or from thinking certain mortgage types are exempt.
Why is this correct?
Answer C is correct because Florida law specifically imposes an intangible tax rate of 2 mills on new mortgages, which equates to $0.20 per $100 of the mortgage amount. This rate is unique to Florida and must be memorized for exam purposes.
Deep Analysis
AI-powered in-depth explanation of this concept
Understanding Florida's intangible tax on new mortgages is crucial for real estate professionals as it directly impacts transaction costs and client budgets. This tax represents a significant closing cost that must be properly disclosed and accounted for in real estate transactions. The question tests knowledge of Florida-specific tax rates, which differ from many other states. To arrive at the correct answer, one must recognize that Florida imposes a specific intangible tax rate of 2 mills on new mortgages. A 'mill' equals one-tenth of a cent, so 2 mills equals $0.002 per dollar or $0.20 per $100. This question is challenging because it requires precise knowledge of Florida tax law and the ability to convert between mills and dollar amounts. Understanding this tax connects to broader knowledge of closing costs, mortgage financing, and state-specific real estate regulations that agents must navigate daily.
Knowledge Background
Essential context and foundational knowledge
Intangible tax is a Florida-specific tax imposed on certain intangible assets, including new mortgages. This tax was established to generate state revenue from financial transactions. For mortgages, the tax is calculated based on the amount of the mortgage debt. The rate has remained at 2 mills ($0.20 per $100) for many years, making it a consistent closing cost in Florida real estate transactions. This tax is typically paid at closing and is usually the responsibility of the borrower, though it can be negotiated in the contract.
Picture a dollar bill with a tiny '20' written in the corner, representing $0.20 per $100. Imagine this tiny number applies to every group of 100 dollars in the mortgage amount.
When you see 'intangible tax' on a Florida question, visualize that tiny '20' to remember the $0.20 per $100 rate.
For Florida intangible tax questions, remember '2 mills = 20 cents per $100.' If you see 'intangible tax' and 'Florida' together, this rate applies.
Real World Application
How this concept applies in actual real estate practice
A buyer is purchasing a $300,000 home in Miami with a $240,000 mortgage. As their agent, you must calculate the intangible tax for their closing costs. At $0.20 per $100, the tax would be $240,000 ÷ 100 × $0.20 = $480. During the transaction, the title company confirms this amount, and you explain to your client that this is a required Florida tax on new mortgages that must be paid at closing. This knowledge helps you provide accurate closing estimates and properly disclose all costs in the purchase contract.
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