Inspiration and/or Advice

[Scott Davidson]

Maybe this isn't the correct category to put this.  As I type this out, maybe I'm more so looking for a mentor that could give me some solid advise.  I've made multiple purchases (2 separate primary houses and 2 more vacant land) but I'm currently selling my first property.

I'm currently selling a property in Washington and just went under contract.  I've reached out to a 1031 exchange facilitator and looking to reinvest rather than pay about $65K in capital gains.

My main issue is that my wife and I have put in several offers over the last year and a half in the Phoenix market (which is insane!) with no success.  I know that the biggest obstacle so far has been not being there in person as we're trying to invest from Alaska.  My question is...should I be changing my strategy and look in a different market such as local or continue as I have been?  Or should I look at this as if I'm successful and get a place, then great...if not, then just pay the taxes and be happy with my accomplishment rather than being upset that I had to hand over so much money.