Wesp ...dont listen to the grumpy old men.
The same guys were full of enthuisiasm a few months ago when someone was going to start there own buisiness in the carribean flying tourists around.He had no helicopter flying experience and most were telling him to go for it.
I think you've done your homework well.You've decided on training in the US....good call as it gives you the best chance to secure your first job instructing and build hours.You've narrowed the schools down to the J1 guys ...again to give yourself the best chance of leaving the country with at least 1000 hours.It takes the military guys about 4 years to get those hours (certainly in the UK ).
Police pilots only fly a few hours a week in the UK.
Then off to Australia ,its not good there at the moment,hard work to get a good break in Oz,even with 2000 hrs.You might consider doing the JAA license at HAI.The the JAA course didn't exist when I was there 7 years ago but the school had a good reputation then as it does now.
Everyone is concerned about your age and your family.Only you can judge that.
All the best
Bladerunner