.: I would go HELOC for sure that would be best as others were saying the lower cost for the money changes between paying a higher rate for a personal line and typically personal lines they want a higher monthly charge as well independent from the interest rate.  

Well if you go together it could split it and get basically nothing - spend $2-3k file a lawsuit and get a judgment you are first in line… Also in many instances you can slap that judgment on his personal residence as well and foreclose on that.

Yesterday I found out that my old neighbor who moved away to take care of her father, inherited the house next door upon his death. 

My goal with the property is to house hack and rent out two fully furnished rooms ($700/800 each room). 

Not sure if they have upgraded to desktop appraisals but if they are still doing in person appraisals , make sure you get everything (scope of work, good faith deposit, social, LLC docs, insurance, proof of prior experience, financial statements) in ASAP.

Probably not a good person to hire, maybe let your bosses know. 

He personally screened every tenant, handled every maintenance request, and even showed up to mow the lawn at his properties when the landscapers were running late.His phone rang constantly—contractors, tenants, vendors—all needing his immediate attention.

Pittsburgh has to be one of the best markets for house hacking so we are definitely blessed.

In person is better than over the phone if possible, as I have been told by annoyed or lazy clerks "NO STR allowed" as that was the easy button to get me off the phone, or if they are anti STR. 

@William Weston You don't have to house hack, but if you could fit your family of 5 in a 3BR unit, would this work: https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-detail/8104-Chesw...?