I've reached out to a web-based crowed funder that will loan us money, but not in rural areas.

You bet.

We do not plan on living here for 30 years and I know not to bet on appreciation so I will do some value add to the house over time and expand it to a 4 bed 2.5 bath with less than a 40k investment, the layout will support it.

Woodcroft is always a safe bet but many of the houses are a dark/rustic style that is hard to update. 

Is the best bet to turn my back to all of the properties listed, and ignore them?

Get some education before betting your life savings. 

A cash buyer, known to the wholesaler, who has successfully closed several deals with them previously, is a much safer bet than someone who is applying for a mortgage loan.

Once you have a few local investments under your belt and have some hands on experience, then and only then should you consider out of state, but by that time I'd bet you would come to the same conclusion I did which is that there are plenty of profits to be had locally and there is no reason to venture out of state.

BUT, I'd bet on Real Estate before betting on any 401(k). 

I've been searching around BP and the web and haven't found one yet.