Once you have residence in Florida on January 1, the clock is ticking to register for the Homestead Exemption. Window to register closes March 1. You can’t take a Homestead Exemption if you live in another state. If your AirBnb neighbor took a Homestead it would be illegal.
Best part is this law:
What is the 'Save Our Homes' law? 'Save our Homes' is an amendment to the Florida constitution that took effect in 1995. It limits the annual increase in the assessed value of homesteaded properties to 3% or the change in the National Consumer Price Index (CPI), whichever is less.