285 - Silicon Valley to Mobile Home Rentals with Valentina Selskaya

285 - Silicon Valley to Mobile Home Rentals with Valentina Selskaya

 

In this episode of the Real Estate Investor Growth Network Podcast, Jen Josey sits down with REIGN member Valentina Selskaya, a former Silicon Valley IT leader turned powerhouse real estate investor. Valentina shares the unfiltered story of her first mobile home project—a deal that started with skepticism and ended with a cash-flowing rental, offering up a treasure trove of lessons for investors at every stage. The conversation is packed with actionable tips, candid reflections, and a healthy dose of humor about the realities of flipping and holding unconventional properties.

 

The episode opens with Jen’s signature “Badassery Bestowment,” highlighting the importance of keeping business and personal finances separate—a rookie mistake that can cause major headaches down the line. Valentina then takes listeners through her journey: from finding the deal through a wholesaler, to navigating a hoarder house filled with surprises (and fleas!), to overcoming financing hurdles and ultimately turning a challenge into a high-yield rental. Along the way, she shares the unexpected costs, the joys of working with great tenants, and the unique quirks of mobile home investing in Florida.

 

The conversation wraps with Valentina’s insights on mindset, systems, and the value of community. She discusses her approach to time management, the role of the REIGN Mastermind in her growth, and what success means to her now that she’s achieved financial freedom. Whether you’re new to real estate or looking for inspiration to tackle your next big project, this episode delivers practical takeaways and motivational wisdom in classic REIGN style.

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5 Key Takeaways

• Keep Your Finances Separate: Mixing business and personal funds can lead to confusion, legal issues, and tax-time headaches. Open dedicated business accounts and track every transaction from day one.
• Expect the Unexpected: Flipping a hoarder mobile home brought surprises—like four dumpsters of trash, hidden structural issues, and a flea infestation. Always budget extra for the unknown and bring a flashlight!
• Mobile Homes Are Different (and Profitable!): While mobile homes come with unique challenges, they can offer strong cash flow and easier permitting—especially in markets like Florida. Just be prepared for stricter lending limits.
• Trust Your Gut with Tenants: Valentina’s story highlights the value of trusting intuition when selecting renters. Her contractor tenant not only pays on time but improved the property, proving that good people make great investments.
• Community & Action Drive Success: Valentina credits her growth to taking action (not overthinking), leveraging mastermind support, and focusing on systems that fit her style. Financial freedom, for her, means spending time with loved ones and living life on her terms.

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Guest Bio: Valentina Selskaya

Valentina Selskaya is a former IT leader from Silicon Valley who launched her real estate investing journey in 2017 as a weekend side hustle. In just four years, she achieved full financial independence, leaving the corporate world to build a thriving business focused on house flips and a diverse portfolio of long, mid, and short-term rentals. Based in Georgia, Valentina is known for her analytical mind, fearless approach to new challenges, and commitment to helping others succeed. She’s a licensed real estate agent, a valued REIGN Mastermind member, and a passionate advocate for the power of mindset and community in transforming lives. Connect with her at southoffer.com.

 

00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic

01:08 Common Rookie Mistake: Mixing Business and Personal Funds

01:35 Steps to Keep Financials Organized

03:25 Introducing Today's Guest: Valentina Selskaya

04:54 Valentina's Journey to Financial Independence

07:42 Valentina's First Mobile Home Project

12:16 Challenges and Surprises in the Renovation

19:01 Final Touches and Listing the Property

25:22 Negotiating with the Wholesaler

25:58 Deciding to Rent Instead of Sell

27:16 Refinancing Challenges

28:14 Successful Rental Experience

30:26 Tenant Improvements and Satisfaction

33:43 Reflections on Mobile Home Investment

38:18 Valentina's Personal Insights and Goals

47:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

 

🔗 Learn More & Connect with Jen Josey:
https://www.therealjenjosey.com – Real estate investing resources, podcast episodes, and more.

👑 Join the REIGN Mastermind:
https://www.reignmastermind.com – Network with real estate investors nationwide.

🔥 Stuff Jen Josey Loves (Recommended Tools & Resources):
https://www.reignmastermind.com/resources – Handpicked tools, books, and services for real estate investors.

📚 Buy Jen Josey’s Book: From Beginner to Badass
https://a.co/d/bstKlby – Step-by-step guide to real estate investing success.

🏠 Grow Your Rental Portfolio with Jen’s Coaching:
https://rentalproppro.com/booking?am_id=reign – Book a session and scale your rental business.