However we don't want to lose the property either since we've already rented out our place and are moving cross country today with no place to live now.

I'd suggest checking out Patch of Land as they have a innovative crowd funding platform and they evaluate each deal to ensure they believe it will be successful (another set of checks and balances especially for a new flipper).  

Wife and I are just crossing our fingers for owners to offer to good neighbors ha!

I'm in the process of acquiring a two family brownstone that is both beautiful but very tired--fingers crossed. 

Thank you to everyone on this platform that has shared their wisdom!  

Hopefully our paths cross sometime in the future.

@Octavian Cross   @Brian Gibbons gave some solid advice as well as @Joe McCall  (I thought you were overseas dude!)

I had major obligations that he originally he crossed off, until I found out the story had $903 in a bank. 

Does anyone know about a crowdfunding or other platform where investors can invest smaller amounts ($5,000, $10,000, $25,000) in quality apartment investments for decent returns?  

It never crossed my mind and could be an interesting option.I am interested in meeting up with experienced investors in Brooklyn or NYC, so if anyone in the area is up for a coffee or lunch, hit me up ;)