In the heart of Lincoln's Telegraph District, you'll find NextHome Integrity, a new boutique brokerage led by the visionary owner-broker, Karalyn Hoefer. Closing 68 units for over $21 million in sales last year, Karalyn is more than just a successful real estate agent; she's a dedicated mentor and industry leader who is passionate about elevating the real estate world itself.

“I'm so driven to elevate others at this point in my career. I really want to raise the bar on professionalism in the industry," Karalyn asserts. “I want agents to be better — it’s not just about putting a sign in the yard. We have a duty and an obligation to our profession.”

Leading a team of several agents, Karalyn notes the atmosphere at NextHome Integrity is characterized by collaboration and a shared passion for excellence.

“Trust, Honesty, Integrity, and Service. My commitment to those four pillars in my life shine through in every interaction with clients and fellow real estate professionals,” Karalyn explains. “I always say to clients, ‘You deserve THIS!’ That’s my motto.”

Drawing from a rich background that includes roles such as a co-administrator at a law firm and executive assistant for a large manufacturing plant, Karalyn says she found her true calling in real estate when she obtained her license in 2001. Inspired by her parents, who were small business owners and real estate investors themselves, she was drawn to the flexibility and fulfillment that a career in real estate offered.

"I’m the daughter of two entrepreneurs, I’ve always had real estate in the back of my brain. Growing up, my parents owned their own home and invested in properties — that was a huge deal to me," Karalyn shares. "When I found myself working long hours for others, I finally made the leap.”

Karalyn's dedication to her profession extends well beyond her role as a top-producing real estate broker. She has served in several leadership positions, including past president of the Realtors Association of Lincoln and as a State Representative of the Broker Involvement Council for the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

"We just had our first statewide Broker Summit," Karalyn beams. "It was a terrific success and well-attended.”

To Karalyn, an impressive track record is not just about the number of transactions closed or the volume of sales; it's also about striking a balance between one’s personal and professional life and empowering others to achieve greatness as well.

"I think right now, where I'm at in my career, success is looking at the other agents I've had a chance to mentor and seeing their success. They've been able to represent our industry so well, and that gives me a great sense of pride," Karalyn explains.

“My goal is to create a space for 10-15 additional agents that want to take the next step in their career. I am creating an environment that encourages independence with mentoring and collaboration. I’m looking for learning-based professional agents that want a culture of collaboration and community of success.“

Karalyn notes what sets her apart as a real estate professional is her commitment to honesty, open communication, and collaboration. Leading with integrity, she ensures her clients receive transparent and unbiased guidance throughout the entire buying or selling process.

"Again, it goes back to my four pillars and communication, collaboration, and focusing on what the client wants. I always lead with honesty — I'm not gonna sugarcoat it, but I'm not an alarmist either. Let’s collaborate and get it figured out," she affirms.

Karalyn also believes that a consummate real estate professional must invest in continuous learning and stay abreast of industry trends to be of true service.

"Agents need to invest in themselves and they need to constantly be learning to keep up in our ever-evolving profession,” Karalyn advises. “There’s so much more to being a full-service real estate agent than what most people realize — emotions, finances, time constraints, new technology. I tell agents it is their job to find a solution before their client even knows there's a problem.

“This job can be tough, but I love seeing the smiles on our clients’ faces … I love seeing them attain their goals and attain homeownership, that’s a win for everyone. Homes are an important part of people’s souls; I believe the home is the heartbeat for that family, or that person.”

As the owner-broker of NextHome Integrity, Karalyn's goal is to selectively grow her agent count and continue serving her profession by taking on more leadership roles. But she also cherishes time with the most important people in her life, including her husband Brian, whom she has been married to for 33 wonderful years, and her two daughters, Kalyssa and Kaitlyn. (Kalyssa has followed in her mother's footsteps and is a real estate agent at NextHome Integrity.) Karalyn notes they are also a big dog family.

“We absolutely love our dogs! We have three grand-dogs and Brian and I have Fitzgerald, a Morkie, and at 13 pounds, Tank is the biggest Yorkie you will probably ever see,” Karalyn laughs. “Canine Companions is our charity of choice at the office.”

In her downtime, Karalyn enjoys gardening, reading books, wine tasting, and savoring the simple pleasures of life. Looking ahead, she intends to maintain a healthy work-life balance, spend some quality time with her adorable 6-month-old grandson, Levi, and continue her passion for real estate investments, rentals, and flips. And with Lincoln's housing market frenzy showing no signs of fizzling, Karalyn sees a world of possibilities awaiting agents who are willing to seize the moment and work hard.

“Lincoln has not slowed down at all, there's a ton of opportunity out there right now,” Karalyn concludes. “You just have to go get it!"