I would start by getting a look at what you're working with - paying for an inspector to visit isn't a bad idea, but depending on how much hoarding was done, it may be wise to remove some of the junk items first so they can give you a more accurate report. 

just be cautious when it comes to using these. ensure you've got a plan to pay that balance back in a relatively quick fashion as most HELOC rates can fluctuate which could make the numbers suddenly not work. i've leveraged mine in instances where i'm doing a BRRR and i want the deposit for a private money loan. i'm not using it as my downpayment and leaving it out there for a long period of time. 

It depends on your goals and usage.  

I'd recommend researching areas to see that they have:- Low unemployment- High demand for housing - relatively low inventory- local job creation/booming local economy- high avg/median income- increasing population- low average days-on-market (DOM)- history of rent and property value increases YOY- low crime- highly-rated schools (or above average)I'd compare the target neighborhood to surrounding neighborhoods and/or nearest metro areas. 

-Safety and crime rates.

Keep in mind - a good response rate is between 0.5%-1%.

I co host around 100 properties in Utah and have used VAs who are not as capable and some who are extremely capable (depending on your budget).

Additionally, other lenders are offering either a 70% LTV or unfavorable rates at 80%.

The answer to your first question is, of course, it depends.

Whether you should rent vacation rental (short term) or long term depends on your goals.