The average tax refund in 2026 is $3,521, but rising home prices mean it now takes about 12.66 refunds to cover a 10% down payment on a median-priced home, up from 6.86 in 2009. Lower down payment programs reduce this number significantly, though closing costs remain. Using high-yield savings accounts and combining savings methods can shorten the time needed to afford homeownership despite higher upfront...