It’s been five years since Proposition 19 changed the rules of the game in California, and in 2026, its impact on San Diego homeowners is more significant than ever. If you are over 55, disabled, or a victim of a wildfire, you have a “superpower” when it comes to property taxes, but only if you know how to use it.

 

Understanding Tax Portability Prop 19 allows you to sell your primary residence and transfer its low property tax base to a new home anywhere in California. In a high-tax county like San Diego, this can save you thousands of dollars every year.

 

Key Benefits to Remember in 2026:

 

• The Value Limit: You can now move to a home of higher value. While there is an adjustment to the tax base, you still keep the original “low” base from your old home as the foundation.

 

• Three-Time Use: You aren’t limited to a one-time move. You can use this benefit up to three times, allowing you to move closer to grandkids and then later into a more specialized care community without a tax penalty.

 

• The Inheritance Trap: Remember, Prop 19 also made it harder for children to inherit a parent’s tax base unless they move into the home within a year. This is why many families are choosing to sell and “gift” the equity now instead.

 

How I Help

 

I work closely with tax professionals and estate attorneys to ensure your move is timed perfectly to qualify for these benefits. Don’t leave money on the table by not understanding the current 2026 tax landscape.

 

Confused about how Prop 19 affects your specific move? Let’s do the math together in a complimentary consultation. We also offer Mobile Notary Service to ensure your tax filings are executed perfectly.