LLC operating out of state

[Matthew Rutledge]

I have an LLC that I started with my now ex-wife. I got the LLC in the divorce. I plan to use this LLC to hold/manage rental properties long term, and basically take care of all my real estate dealings that are not for personal use. My next business move is to buy properties out of state.

I'm at a point where I don't know what I don't know.

Do I need to register with the state in which I plan to be doing business?  Do I need to file a tax return there?

I'm going through the bookkeeping threads.  I'll try to hold those questions until I'm up to speed, but at what point can I start considering my trips up there to be a tax write off?  Scouting, networking, team building trips?  Trips to close on properties?  Trips to sign leases?  Trips to check on properties and talk with tenants? 

What else don't I know to ask?

Thanks all!