Gustavo Rodea is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 22 years of experience in the retail and real estate industries. He began his career in the furniture business at the age of 22, opening his first store in Warsaw, NC, in 2003. During the 2008 recession, he relocated to Wilmington, NC, where he founded Mattress & Furniture Liquidators (Mueblería El Nido), now operating four locations, including one in Durham.
In 2017, Gustavo expanded into real estate investment, acquiring mobile homes, commercial properties, and both short- and long-term rental units, including Airbnbs. Through his company, Cash4House, he continues to grow his diverse property portfolio. Committed to mentorship and education, he became a certified John Maxwell Coach in 2016 and launched “Gustavo the Business Coach” during the COVID-19 pandemic to support aspiring business owners.
Gustavo is also a dedicated community leader. He co-founded the Latin Business Council within the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce in 2020 and serves on its Board of Directors. Additionally, he holds roles with the Hispanic Latino Commission and the New Hanover County Endowment’s Community Advisory Council.
Originally from Mexico, Gustavo moved to North Carolina at 17 and has lived in Wilmington since 2008. He is married to Lupe Duran, and together they have three sons: Anthony, 16, Leonardo, 6, and Mateo, 1. Gustavo’s many accolades include recognition from NC Business Magazine, the Wilmington Biz 100, and the Latino Diamanté Awards. Above all, his family remains his greatest inspiration.