Linda is a Spokane native; born and raised 25 miles north in Deer Park. Her father taught her from an early age that she could become what she set her mind to be.
She and Jim were married in Spokane at 19 while he was attending Gonzaga University. It was always her purpose to work until she was a mother and then stay home until her children were grown. Two boys were born into the family; David, now 41 and Michael 36.
“Linda has gained keen insight into the daily challenges of the people she meets”
When Linda attempted to return to the work force, she found a bias against her age and lack of recent work experience. After being denied several interviews, she decided to start her own business and grew it successfully for several years.
In 1989, after a family discussion, Linda and Jim decided to enter the Real Estate business as licensed agents. Linda’s first year proved her mettle in the field when she was recognized as “Rookie of the Year” for Tomlinson Real Estate. She found that serving people through this business was her calling. Jim moved to real estate appraisal where he remained until his disability in 2002.
Linda’s success in real estate is documented by letters of appreciation from her clients, and several industry awards including the first Frank Nardo scholarship in 2000, the James S. Black scholarship in 2001 and the Realtor® Achievement Award in 2002.
Linda is an approved real estate instructor with a focus in the areas of Ethics and Professional Standards since 1994. She has developed a passion for these subjects and has been called on to address businesses, civic groups and others about personal character growth and application of ethics in business and everyday living.
The needs in the community are great and Linda has volunteered as a CASA in the juvenile courts, served on the board of CASA Partners, and weekly plays the piano at Sacred Heart Hospital in the main floor waiting area.
Jim was diagnosed with a life threatening heart disease in 1996. Linda became the sole support upon his disability in 2002. He received a heart transplant in 2004 and despite cancer surgery in 2007 is healthy today.
Through a full life of raising her family and the trauma of Jim’s illnesses and recovery, and the complete dependence of her parents, Linda has gained keen insight into the daily challenges of the people she meets. Agents call for advice. Clients lean on her for strength when they feel vulnerable during a transaction. Strangers tell her their story of sadness and loneliness as they listen to her soothing music at the hospital.
Linda has four “brilliant” granddaughters ranging in age from infant to 12 years. They love to do crafts with grandma and she loves indulging them. These children are her total delight.
Today Linda is active in her profession of real estate; working full time, serving on the Spokane Association of Realtors® Board of Directors, several committees, and continues to teach regularly. After 20 years, she believes she may have found her career.