For example, they lost a fairly major battle when they tried to argue that only licensed professional can manage short term rental properties. 

Consult with Experts: If you're uncertain, seek advice from a financial advisor or mortgage professional who can help you evaluate the specifics of your situation and give tailored recommendations.By following these steps, you can make a well-informed decision about whether refinancing while considering prepayment penalties is a good financial strategy for you.

Other than "talk to tax professional".

I have confirmed what @Garrett Brown shared -- my best option is an SBA disaster loan with a lower than normal interest rate to pay off our mortgage and then I can also hope for / pursue with others a land buyback program for those of us who have floodplain property that FEMA won't reinsure.

Based in San Diego, I’m looking to connect with local professionals, share insights, and learn from others in the community.

Using a Heloc utilizes the equity that is sitting dormant, it provides tax relief (once again check with your tax professional) as it is interest income, you can typically get a reasonable rate andlastly there is no out of pocket money.

Consulting with a tax professional can help clarify how and when to maximize tax benefits based on your plan.

Hi Katie, do the tax benefits apply to just Real Estate professionals or could it also apply to regular full-time W-2 employees?

Readers should seek professional advice.

Readers should seek professional advice.