As the April 15 tax deadline approaches, a new survey from HomeServe, a leading provider of home repair solutions, reveals a powerful trend: many American homeowners are planning to invest their tax refunds directly into their homes. The poll of 568 homeowners indicates that three-quarters of homeowners (76.4%) anticipate receiving or have received a refund this year. Of those expecting a refund, nearly six in ten (59.68%) plan to use their refund on home-related expenses, making it the most popular use of tax returns, ahead of paying down debt, travel or personal shopping.
Key Takeaways from the HomeServe Poll:
- A Significant Windfall: More than 60% of respondents expect a refund of at least $1,000, providing substantial capital for projects.
- The Home Is the Top Priority: Nearly 60% of homeowners receiving a tax refund plan to spend it on their home, making it the most common use of the funds.
- Projects Get the Green Light: The most common home uses for refund money include starting or completing home improvement projects (51.06%), refreshing or redecorating living spaces (35.39%) and tackling long-delayed repairs (35.39%).
- Cost Is the Biggest Barrier: A lack of budget was cited by 46% of respondents as the primary reason for delaying home improvements, positioning tax refunds as a crucial opportunity to move projects forward.
“This data confirms what we at HomeServe see every day: homeowners are incredibly passionate about maintaining and improving their homes, but budget is often the biggest obstacle,” said Tom Rusin, CEO of HomeServe. “Tax season has become a pivotal time for home investment, providing a dedicated financial boost to tackle everything from long-overdue repairs to exciting new projects.”
What is the Biggest Hurdle in Home Improvement?
If you have been delaying a home renovation or a critical repair, you are far from alone. According to the HomeServe polling data, the number one factor holding homeowners back is a simple lack of budget. Roughly 46% of respondents cited cost as their primary roadblock, far outpacing concerns like finding a reliable contractor (18.13%) or not knowing where to start (6.69%). When essential repairs and desired upgrades are stalled by tight household budgets, tax season provides a unique opportunity to act.
Rather than letting projects languish, proactive homeowners are strategically deploying their tax refunds to break through the budget barrier sooner rather than later. A combined 53% of respondents say they’ll begin their project(s) within three months. The HomeServe poll also reveals that putting a refund into the home surpassed paying down debt (52.46%), going on vacation (26.58%) or buying new gadgets (12.85%).
Where Exactly Is the Money Going?
Homeowners are using these funds for a wide range of important tasks. The HomeServe data shows a strong focus on maintaining and enhancing their primary asset – their home:
- 51.06% will start or complete a home improvement project (e.g., remodeling).
- 35.39% will refresh or redecorate a living space.
- 35.39% will finally tackle a home repair they’ve been putting off.
- 14.61% will invest in smart home or energy-saving upgrades.
Survey Methodology: The survey was conducted by HomeServe on April 9, 2026, capturing responses from 568 individuals who identified as homeowners who anticipate receiving a tax refund.
To learn more about HomeServe, a leading home repair solutions company serving more than 4.6 million customers across North America, visit www.HomeServe.com or visit us on social media via Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn.
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260414974755/en/
Media gallery
