Phoenix Newbie trying to start with 1031 exchange

[Ry Eikleberry]

I'm in a unique situation (like most) and have began seriously considering real estate investing as revenue source for my family. I'm a professional racehorse jockey and often so busy with that life I seldom have had the time to consider real estate as an income.I feel iv'e had my head in the sand after coming across bigger pockets. Covid has been eye opening to realize how much I depend on my higher income to keep my families way of life constant. With my profession, my income could end with one fall, or many other reasons as I have seen with some of my friends over the years . I want to retire on my terms unlike many older riders I see still forced to ride even though there bodies are not cut out for it any longer .And I'm tired of seeing my young daughters cry every time dady has to leave home for sometimes months at a time.  I want to be there for them. Enough sob story

I have a rental property in Phoenix ( my former home) that is worth approximately 500k after buying it for 350 in 2010. I'm hoping this can be my in to the world of real estate investing. I also have a mother who is a rental property manger and aunt and uncle who are brokers all in Phoenix. Obviously I will be using there advice but I want some opinions that if I do a 1031 for better cash flowing properties what would be the best rental property types in Phoenix. With covid would duplex or small apartment complex be a better bet than single family properties against a real estate down market? Would cheaper single family homes fair better or worse?  Is it a wise time to make a change now? Any opinion what property might take the biggest hit if there is a drop in prices. I'd like to get my foot in the door but have only had 2  single family rentals in the past. I'm one one who jumps in with both feet so I'm trying to be smart about this. The house is paid off so I think I have to invest aprox 450k equity into the new property or properties. Any ideas or thoughts would be great!

[Alyssa Dyer]

@Jason Gilmore might be able to provide some insight and help strategize! He's a real estate professional in the Phoenix area and I'm personally aware of his investment know-how.