I believe overall the HELOC would be much cheaper than a cash-out refinance, especially given the current 3.25 30yr VA note I have, to get access to that equity.

Since this is a cruise, I won't have access to my cell phone and limited internet access(I get 30 minutes free for the trip and can pay for more as necessary).

Specifically, Eugene and Springfield.My current fulltime employment gives me wholesale access to interior finish materials and all of the right contacts for sub contractors in the area.  

Neighboring Mishawaka has one of the largest concentrations of retail stores in the state, and the entire region boasts affordable housing, over a dozen institutions of higher learning, easy transportation access and convenient commute times that average 20.2 minutes.

Title report I have access to shows it's a duplex but everyone involved is telling me its a Tri.

Do you have access to show it before it's yours?

If you pay a little more for location can you earn more in overtime or by performing better in your day job, or will it help you access your business markets and clients because of your house hack location?

What is the condition of the crawl space now - is it a tall crawl with easy access or is it pretty small?

Having access to your private lender is awesome and sounds like you got some excellent terms.

Also, cash is king in hard times where you can use cash at will rather than relying on changing bank standards to gain access to your equity.