Steven Joseph Wolfe
Retired Real Estate Investor in Rochester, Minnesota
Steven Joseph Wolfe, a retired real estate investor and restaurant franchisee, began his investment journey in 2013. His portfolio includes:
- A 118-unit single-family rental housing community.
- Five short-term vacation rentals.
- New construction apartments.
- Two Marriott hotels.
- A medical biotechnology startup.
In 2021, he ventured into senior living with his first project in Durango, Colorado, which he and his partners sold in the Spring of 2024. Since then, they have expanded into seven more senior living projects across Minnesota and Iowa.
His professional prowess includes restaurant and franchise operations, real estate development in apartments and hotels, and, recently, senior living facilities specializing in assisted living and memory care.
In 2000, he embarked on a notable stint as a Panera Bread franchisee, developing six locations across southern Minnesota and western Wisconsin. He built a robust operation employing over 350 staff and managing more than six cafes. He sold his franchise in 2019 after nearly two decades of ownership, during which he excelled in operations, financial oversight, leadership, management, employee development, and marketing.
He crafted and led a strong management team, overseeing more than 32 managers, and worked closely with his HR director and accountant to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements. He was a hands-on leader, often seen interacting with customers and staff in his stores. He also collaborated with his regional training manager to ensure consistent training and retention of managers and hourly associates.
He tailored marketing efforts to align with the national brand and adapt to local markets, significantly boosting sales and supporting the opening of new stores. He played a crucial role in launching all six locations, managing staffing, daily operations, and compliance with local zoning laws. His leadership was evident in the longevity of his management team, which amassed over 300 combined years of experience at Panera by the time he exited the business.
Before his franchise career, he worked as an independent sales broker for Family Heritage Life in the Chicago suburbs, focusing on supplemental insurance sales. Over five years, he consistently ranked in the top five for sales, driven by a 100% commission structure. His early sales experience also included selling educational and Christian books during college summers, which sharpened his sales and customer engagement skills.