Here is my take on each of them:1) HELOC: a reusable amount of credit with a variable rate.2) Home Equity Loan: a 2nd mortgage on my home, only for the equity, with a fixed interest rate3) Cash out Refinance: replacing the current mortgage on my home with a new mortgage for 75% - 80% of the current value, and receiving the extra equity in cash.My specific question is, which is these is the preferred method when using the capital gained to begin investing with the BRRRR strategy?

Long-term rentals preferred, but potential for branching into short- or medium-term rental options to serve the market.

She should be able to get a 30 year fixed mortgage on either house, which is preferred.  

I'm leaning toward house hacking it and would prefer to get an FHA loan for the lower up front down payment since it will be my primary residence.

I can then use Dealcheck, or whatever system you prefer, to analyze the properties to provide comps.

I have a couple of questions that I was hoping someone with more experience might be able to answer for me.When you are looking for a potential BRRR or possibly a fix and flip, do you prefer off-market deals or have you ever worked with a buyers agent?

For long term access I prefer to refi into fixed rate 30 year loans.  

Plus it places us in our preferred investment area.

I prefer to go the HELOC route because you can use it like a checkbook and only use it when you need it. 

I prefer being 5-10% below market.