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Who pays last years taxes when I buy a house.?

I am buying a house in Florida here this month. Who pays 2009 taxes on the house? Please provide sources if possible. Thanks.

Public Comments

1. Real estate taxes are pro-rated, that is, they will be paid by the seller up to the date of sale.
2. 2009 property taxes should have already been billed to the current homeowner. They are responsible for paying the 2009 payment; you will be charged the prorated amount in escrow.
3. Who pays it & how much depends on when you close (transfer possession). The taxes are due on Jan 1, 2010, but can be paid with a discount now. If not paid until after closing the amount will be pro-rated throught the day before closing & credited to the Buyer & paid by the buyer. If the Seller pays before closing s/he will be credited for the pro-ration between the day before closing & Dec. 31. If you read your puchase contract you will almost certainly find a paragraph detailing the pro-ration method for taxes.