Looking to learn and get insights from the folks here.

Any insight is appreciated. 

They will define you more than your gains. 

A mortgage broker and potentially a real estate attorney can provide valuable insights into your specific situation and the best financing options available to you.

Utilizing platforms and tools that offer market insights (AirDNA, Rankbreeze, Wheelhouse, PriceLabs, Smart Pricing) and competitive analysis can help you price your property optimally throughout the year.

Biggest mistake of my life was not holding 50 or so more of the 500 I flipped, HUGE mistake  Thank you for the insight and wisdom Bob, you are right, better hold now than regret later!

BTW, that also gives me a bit of insight into their progress as they pack up and leave, and any damage they may have caused.

* We have heard that this is a way for the owner to avoid "Capital gains"?

Your refi will cost you 2 1/2 years of those improved gains to recoup the cost of the refi.  

While navigating these alternatives, you can gain STR market experience, build equity, and potentially generate income to improve your credit score over time.