Additionally, we have equity of approximately $145,000.Now, we are faced with a dilemma: should we sell our current property and purchase in a more favorable neighborhood, or should we rent the house and let it pay for itself.We would greatly appreciate any advice you may have.

Additionally, their marketing was very compelling.

In addition, due to the 2 of 5 year rule there often is no need.  2) you cannot 1031 a property that has not been put into service to be an investment property 3) you cannot 1031 a flip.  

These are professionals with additional training and a stricter code of ethics.

Additionally, I have $100,000 in cash in the bank, and my monthly expenses for my home and family are around $3,500.My wife earns between $100,000 and $120,000 from her W2 job, while I've recently lost my job but found a new one that pays $65,000 a year.

Thanks for any additional input you have time to put forth. 

In addition, the debt of each state is crippling.

Additionally, the price point is still cheap enough to find the 1% rule and positive cash flow and there's amazing appreciation potential.

There are also additional costs of operating and maintaining an LLC, like separate bank accounts, annual report filings, tax filings, etc.2.

Here are additional comments:1) Buying out of state removes any local knowledge you have from assisting in your success, including knowing areas, people and costs. - We always recommend buying your first rental locally if possible and DIY managing to learn as much as possible before investing OOS.2) Lots of crooks and incompetents in the PMC world:( They both cost you money.- As already stated, you'll have a small portfolio.