George Hale, 

COO/Co-Founder, Woodhill Homes

There are people in life who get the biggest thrill out of working for themselves. But this doesn’t mean they’re all about themselves. Which is exactly the case with George Hale, who had foresight, spotted an opportunity to pursue a progressive strategy to help people, and took action by co-launching a partnership: Woodhill Homes.

George grew up in Portland, Oregon, noticing big gaps in residential living and, through a deep desire to accelerate his own professional and personal wellbeing, took the fate of his future into his hands. While attending Portland State University, his “hobby” was studying up on cutting-edge industries and companies, reading all he could about successful leaders, companies and industries. The efforts paid off. Before graduation, this self-starter had launched his real estate career, buying and selling properties and, consequently, building investment skills.

Around 2001, George turned his focus toward Central Oregon real estate, which was strong and showed loads of promise. Of note, he knew someone in that region: Jay Campbell, a proven building-industry professional and someone George considered a friend. George told Jay about his vision: a development company specializing in entry-level, high-quality homes and neighborhoods, built with integrity and backed by people who cared about their customers, their community and their employees. Within a year, the two formed Woodhill Homes, with George serving as CEO.

Talk to George and you’ll find he’s nearly fearless. He’s excellent at seeking out new deals, developing business relationships, and bringing a creative eye to what’s being built, whether a proposal or the property itself. George also has a rare gift for spotting emerging real estate markets. This—along with a little luck and loads of hard work—has played into Woodhill Homes’ long-term success. 

From a high-level standpoint, George cares about big-picture issues: He believes in helping people achieve homeownership, in residences that make them feel great, even proud. That said, he’s tuned into details, such as how vaulted ceilings breathe life into living spaces or inviting kitchen islands draw in people for critical connection. As quality control is a must with Woodhill Homes, George scrutinizes everything and everyone who collaborates in building their neighborhoods and residences.

Given George never stops thinking or dreaming, his favorite word is “Yes!” A smart, strategic solutionist, he gets beyond life’s naysayers and “No’s.” And yet, as much as he works, George is a deeply invested, devoted husband and dad. He’s made many mountain drives to work in Central Oregon and be back home in time for dinner in Portland. And he’s totally great with that. Why? Because with the life he’s designed and a company he loves, that’s the deal. It’s how he keeps his dreams alive.