This is just the same grift with a different spin geared toward lending. 

I'm interested in purchasing out of state but haven't the foggiest about how to get started other than pick a place, go there and then buy there.. but I feel its a little like spinning the globe blindfolded and just heading to where your finger lands..

I've been spinning my wheels, along with my lender, to figure out a solution to a problem similar to yours.

So here I am, head spinning about issues with investment strategy, trust, and which direction to go. 

If it is not going to be considered part of the 1031 it is always best to pay these outside of closing so as to not mingle them with 1031 funds.In the event that is not possible your accountant can still spin these costs out of the exchange when filing your taxes next year and make them boot even if they are on the settlement statement and paid for with 1031 funds initially.

Some horrible event could happen tomorrow that could put us in a tail spin.

Not sure how you can try and spin that statement.

I can't tell you how many spin classes I've been to on weekend mornings. 

I once spent 6 months spinning my wheels on a property, potential first flip, that was in contract, had an opportunity to sue.

Most important thing when starting is to make sure you look appealing to a lender. if not you are spinning your wheels.