Person Behind The Place: Linda Hoffner

Person Behind The Place:
Linda Hoffner

Senior Property Manager | Wright Runstad & Company

From Mrs. Washington to a Senior Property Manager, Linda Hoffner is a Bellevue double threat. After launching a property management career in 2008, Hoffner continued her pursuit of community involvement and earned the title of Mrs. Washington America in 2020. She's spent hours in local food banks, supporting youth organizations and raising money for charities. Now, her focus is creating an all-inclusive community in The Spring District neighborhood. We caught up with Linda Hoffner to talk about Downtown's growth and where to find her in the Heart of Bellevue!

When did you begin your career in property management?

I started my career with Wright Runstad & Company in Bellevue, then transitioned to Seattle for many years working with various companies. I finally re-joined Wright Runstad & Company in December 2020, when they were looking for a Senior Property Manager for their new and vibrant Spring District. There's no greater time for community building than now! Being able to provide a safe, clean, and fun environment for Bellevue locals to gather is paramount for bringing vibrancy back to our city.

Apart from being a property manager, you were also crowned Mrs. Washington America in 2020. What was that like?

Being crowned Mrs. Washington America was an absolute dream come true and led me on a journey of self-growth that I never expected! Being a “COVID Queen” had its challenges, as I was restricted on how I could support the various communities around the state. That didn’t stop me from being creative though! I knew people needed help and were struggling during this global pandemic. I was able to raise thousands of dollars for various charities, including Victoria’s Voice, Homeless Backpacks for Kids, Girls on the Run, and several other local groups. For me, this year was about serving the needs of the greater Washington community and inspiring those around me to follow suit. I am forever changed by this experience and will treasure my memories of being Mrs. Washington America 2020 for the rest of my life.

What are your thoughts on Downtown Bellevue's growth?  

I saw an incredible growth spurt that truly transitioned Bellevue into a leader for business development and real estate expansion. I have been impressed with how well the city has adapted to the increased density and footprint of Downtown. The Spring District is a perfect example of how the downtown core will no longer be defined by Interstate 405. With Lightrail’s imminent arrival to East Bellevue, the businesses in and surrounding The Spring District will feel the same accessibility to Downtown Bellevue that had once existed only to those within walking distance of Bellevue Square.

What's your role in The Spring District's development?

My role at The Spring District is to create a sense of community and cohesiveness amongst the residential, educational, retail, and commercial office users in our neighborhood. I am fortunate to work alongside the development team as they create the vision and infrastructure, leaving the task of creating vibrancy and diversity to me and my incredible team of property managers and engineers.

What's your favorite part about working in Downtown?

Bellevue is known as being the “City in a Park” and I truly feel like I'm surrounded by greenery and open spaces in all the different areas of Downtown. I not only work in Bellevue, but I live in Bellevue as well. I believe in the vision and implementation plan that our civic leaders have created to continue pushing Bellevue to the forefront of the Pacific Northwest.

Favorite places to dine out in Downtown Bellevue?

Oh gosh, so many! I love a good happy hour at Central Bar, a romantic date night at Carmine's Bellevue, or a fun family meal at MOD Pizza!

Any favorite places to shop?

I love the little shops along Main Street with the charm of Old Bellevue. It's a great proximity to Downtown Park, where I take my kids after dragging them shopping with me!

Any hidden gems we should explore?

The Spring District! Follow us on social media for updates on events including lunchtime concerts and weekday farmer’s markets throughout the summer. And outdoor movies in early September!

 

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Person Behind the Place is part of the Heart of Bellevue: our campaign to showcase local businesses while connecting you with stories of activity, creativity and recovery. Find out about our campaign and explore more of what’s happening around Downtown.