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.

If you have a property manager that is local or close to the area, you could establish CB or other radios at the location and at your property managers so there was a means of communication. 

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.

At least that's the setup I prefer, others may do something different.