Brokerages are always looking for young, hungry people to impart knowledge to, however, I suggest you try to ADD VALUE to them by way of volunteering your time.

If you don't have a RE knowledgeable tax pro, I do advise you to look in your locale for a Certified Tax Coach.

Even if we use a more modest 2% (inflation) appreciation model, you end up with $1.9 million, which is a $100k "loss" versus a $1.9 million loss.Of course there's lots of other factors - can you stay there for 30 years?

I go and stay in our place when we are making improvements, so it's not a big deal to me either way, but if I had to make money on my house to keep it, I'd be in trouble.

I then offered them a 3 day stay later in the year once the gentleman had recovered no charge.

Extra razzle dazzle - post up on FB groups and Airbnb for 30+ day stays. 

I'm from the area, so I'm very familiar with what areas to stay away from, and homes in high crime areas that were worth $100k 5 years ago are now going for $350k.

Almost impossible....double the interest rate and double the price....will make them stay put, except in the most extreme circumstances.

Did you know that short-term rentals only account for 15% of the stays for travelers?

Generally, the location isn't as important as finding a tax professional that is knowledgable.