Americans received a slightly lower income tax refund this year.  Down about 1.5% from 2009, the average refund check for this year was $2895, in contrast to last year’s average of $2,940.  The IRS released statistical data including returns filed up to April 8th, 2011.  The refunds have totaled up to 234.2 billion, down 0.1% from the 2009 figures.  Higher refunds, an average of $3100,  were reported for individuals accepting direct deposits instead of a mailed check.

Individuals are more willing to e-file their returns, an increase of 8.1%.  Although the number of taxpayers preparing their own taxes is up this year, 9.8%, most Americans still choose to have their federal returns professionally handled.   Procrastinators were given a couple of extra days this year to delay filing, Emancipation Day fell on the Saturday following the traditional April 15th filling date, therefore pushing the filing date to the 18th so the holiday could be observed on Friday.

The Seattle based real estate information exchange site has filed for an initial public offering totaling $51.75 million.  The registration to the Securities and Exchange Commission was filed in April, though no word was released on the amount of shares or even what exchange it will be traded on.   Zillow intends to use the securities to expand it’s financial flexibility and market visibility.

The company’s site allows users to look at local market trends, evaluate home prices, and even find homes to rent.   They also connect clients with lenders via the Zillow Mortgage Marketplace.  With over 13 million users, the site has a prominent lead in the market and has a promising outlook.