Jamie:
I have acquired several areas since I started our business 10 years ago; now in two states. I would like to offer the following recommendation. First, I would not recommend farming, advertising, promoting, networking or working an area you don’t own. As an operator, you would also be working outside your contract and I would not want to go that route.
If this area is close to you and has potential, go for it! As an operator it is much easier to purchase/acquire additional territories. Then you can focus on networking, flyers, shows, etc. You are in control of your schedule so you can set aside 1 or 2 days a week to work this area. This will allow you to possibly use the same manpower without interfering with your current business.
I continue to operate our CA office from UT and have been doing this for 1.5yrs now and can share good & bad experiences during this transition. Call me or email if you have specific questions.