@Marcia M that note applies to HELOCs and other equity loans. This was a refi.
However, I can't find anything to substantiate @RichardK 's reference to "rental portion of the loan" The rental property is owned free and clear now and was not used to secure the loan. Additionally, funds from the loan (as far as I can tell) were not used to improve the rental property either. Based on my understanding of the tracing rules, the mortgage interest can not be claimed on the SCH E. It's a SCH A deduction subject to the SALT limits.
