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Buying property in Florianópolis: is it worth it now?

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Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Brazil Property Pack

property investment Florianópolis

Yes, the analysis of Florianópolis' property market is included in our pack

Property taxes in Florianópolis are surprisingly manageable for foreign investors, with rates typically ranging from 0.6% to 1% of assessed value.

Understanding the IPTU (property tax) system is crucial for anyone considering buying real estate in this Brazilian coastal city. The tax structure includes several components beyond the base property tax, and savvy buyers can secure significant discounts through strategic payment timing.

If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Florianópolis, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.

What's the current property tax rate in Florianópolis?

The property tax rate (IPTU) in Florianópolis ranges from 0.5% to 1.5% of the property's assessed value as of September 2025.

For most residential properties, you can expect to pay between 0.6% and 1% annually. The exact rate depends on your property's location, size, and characteristics within the city.

The municipal government applies graduated rates based on the assessed value and property type. Higher-value properties and those in premium neighborhoods typically face rates closer to the upper end of this range.

It's something we develop in our Brazil property pack.

How is the assessed value calculated for tax purposes?

The assessed value (valor venal) is determined by Florianópolis city government using official valuation tables called "Plantas de Valores Genéricos."

The calculation considers several key factors: the size of your land and building, the specific neighborhood location, construction type and quality, and current market conditions in your area.

The assessed value is typically lower than the actual market value, especially when the city's valuation tables haven't been updated recently. This works in your favor as a property owner since you pay taxes on the lower assessed amount rather than full market value.

These valuations are updated periodically by the municipal government, with the most recent adjustment in 2025 including a 4.8% monetary correction for inflation.

What's the average annual property tax for a R$500,000 home?

A home assessed at R$500,000 will pay between R$2,500 and R$7,500 annually in IPTU, with most properties falling in the R$3,000 to R$5,000 range.

Using the typical rate of 0.7%, your annual IPTU would be R$3,500. However, you can reduce this significantly through early payment discounts of up to 20%.

The final amount depends on your property's specific location within Florianópolis and whether you qualify for any municipal discounts or exemptions.

Are there tax brackets or thresholds for residential properties?

Florianópolis applies graduated tax rates rather than fixed brackets, meaning rates increase gradually with property value.

The system considers property use (residential versus commercial), assessed value ranges, and sometimes specific neighborhood classifications. Residential properties generally receive more favorable rates than commercial or vacant land.

Higher-value properties and secondary homes may face slightly increased rates, though the progression isn't as steep as income tax brackets.

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What additional municipal fees apply beyond base property tax?

Beyond IPTU, property owners pay two main additional fees: solid waste collection (TCRS) and public lighting (COSIP).

These fees are separate charges that appear alongside your property tax bill or on your electricity statement. They're mandatory for all property owners regardless of whether you actually use these services.

The total additional fees typically add R$550 to R$1,300 annually to your property ownership costs, depending on your property size and location within the city.

How much is the annual garbage collection fee?

The solid waste collection fee (TCRS) ranges from R$400 to R$900 per year for a standard residential property in Florianópolis.

The exact amount depends on your property size, location zone, and the level of service provided in your neighborhood. Larger homes and those in premium areas typically pay higher fees.

You can pay this fee in full or split it into up to 10 equal monthly installments throughout the year, though no discount is offered for lump-sum payment.

What's the yearly cost for public lighting fees?

The public lighting fee (COSIP) costs between R$150 and R$400 annually for most residential properties as of September 2025.

This fee typically appears as a monthly charge on your electricity bill rather than a separate annual payment. The amount varies based on your property classification and the area's infrastructure needs.

Higher-consumption properties and those in areas with more extensive lighting infrastructure generally pay toward the upper end of this range.

Are tax rates different for primary versus secondary homes?

Florianópolis doesn't explicitly charge different IPTU rates for primary residences versus secondary or vacation homes.

However, some discounts and payment incentives may only apply to residents who own just one property in the municipality. Foreign investors with multiple properties might face slightly different treatment regarding certain municipal benefits.

The base tax calculation remains the same regardless of whether the property is your primary residence or an investment property.

It's something we develop in our Brazil property pack.

infographics rental yields citiesFlorianópolis

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Brazil versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

Is there a discount for paying property tax in full?

Yes, Florianópolis offers up to 20% discount on IPTU for property owners who pay the full annual amount by January 6th.

Lesser discounts of 10% or 5% apply if you pay later in the year but still in a single payment. No discounts are available if you choose the installment payment option.

This early payment discount can save you hundreds or even thousands of reais annually, making it one of the most effective ways to reduce your property ownership costs in Florianópolis.

What penalties apply for late property tax payments?

Late IPTU payments incur both fixed penalties and daily interest charges based on Brazil's SELIC interest rate.

The typical penalty structure includes a fixed fine of 2% of the amount due plus daily interest that compounds over time. Additional administrative fees may apply for significantly overdue payments.

Prolonged non-payment can result in property liens and legal collection actions, making timely payment essential for property owners.

What would total yearly tax bills be for different property values?

Property Value IPTU (0.7% rate) TCRS (Garbage) COSIP (Lighting) Total Annual Cost With 20% Discount
R$300,000 R$2,100 R$500 R$200 R$2,800 R$2,380
R$500,000 R$3,500 R$700 R$300 R$4,500 R$3,800
R$750,000 R$5,250 R$800 R$350 R$6,400 R$5,350
R$1,000,000 R$7,000 R$900 R$400 R$8,300 R$6,900
R$1,500,000 R$10,500 R$900 R$400 R$11,800 R$9,700

How often are property values reassessed in Florianópolis?

Property value reassessments in Florianópolis don't follow a fixed annual schedule but occur every few years based on city council decisions.

The most recent update in 2025 included a 4.8% monetary correction to account for inflation, but comprehensive reassessments happen less frequently. This means your assessed value might remain stable for several years before significant adjustments.

The irregular reassessment schedule can work in your favor if property values in your area have increased significantly since the last official update, as you'll continue paying taxes on the older, lower assessed value.

It's something we develop in our Brazil property pack.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

  1. E-Sales International Brazil Property Market Report
  2. Global Citizen Solutions Brazil Property Guide
  3. The Latin Investor Brazil Land Purchase Guide
  4. ND Mais Florianópolis IPTU 2025 Report
  5. BNDES Street Lighting Infrastructure Report
  6. GIZ Low Carbon Infrastructure Study
  7. H2 Foz IPTU Correction Report
  8. Oliveira Lawyers Real Estate Tax Guide