However, as Dan pointed out Buildium is a property management software with an accounting module.These aren't your best options for accounting and tax software for real estate.

I also advise getting a second lawyers opinion as we all aren't lawyers. 

Otherwise, you probably will end up with a cheap, bad at communicating company who you will end up regretting hiring because they aren't actually getting anything done. 

It was very outdated so we are giving it a facelift and will be looking for a way to rent it out.We’ve considered retreats, STR, independent living, section 8, etc. what other options are out there that we aren’t thinking of?

Plus, keeping it as a rental helps you avoid any potential loan fraud issues—something worth considering based on your risk tolerance.The new house could be great for personal reasons, being closer to your parents, but with a higher rate and payment, the financials aren’t as sweet.

And most of the people that have regrets probably aren't on BP...

People aren't that dumb, they can see the potential.

Of course, your bid will be extremely important, but it would be a challenge to get to the point of executing a bid proposal if we aren't confident in much of the above items.  

Do not go and invest out of state because people come into the forum and try to convince you to work with them on these goals (so ridiculous), you aren't ready for that and you have a good foundation somewhat locally.Your best bet, if you can't move, is to keep investing outside of New Jersey and stay close to your current property.

The laws on smoke/CO2 detectors aren't going to get more lenient as time goes on.