Tamera Toof’s approach to real estate at NextHome Integrity is a powerful reminder that true fulfillment lies in the connections we forge, the joy we spread, and the lives we touch along the way. With an impressive career spanning over two decades, Tamera has not only carved a niche for herself in the Lincoln market but holds a deep reverence for family, faith, and having fun.

 

After graduating from University of Nebraska Lincoln with a business administration degree and minor in marketing, Tamera started in life and disability sales for a few years. She then decided to hone her skills as a recruiter, identifying top sales talent in the banking industry and real estate sector. It was during this time that she discovered her innate passion for connecting people with opportunities that could change their lives.

However, after going from one child to three when she had twins, Tamera found herself being recruited into the real estate arena by her husband’s broker-owner, Larry Zitek. Joining forces with her husband Jim, Tamera quickly rose to prominence, leveraging her background in sales and relationship-building to achieve rapid success.

“I started in life insurance sales, then spent five years looking for top salespeople in the banking industry and real estate … so becoming a REALTORⓇ was a natural fit. My husband likes to say he is the 'how' and I'm the 'wow’” Tamera smiles. “We sold 100 homes together my first full year in 2004 and I never looked back.”

 

Tamera has been a top agent over the years and in 2023 she received the NextHome Premier Sales Award, Realtors Association of Lincoln’s December 2023 Outstanding Performers Award, as well as Lincoln’s Choice Awards runner-up as Best Real Estate Agent.

For Tamera, real estate is more than just accolades and sealing the deal though; it's about being a connector while enjoying the ride — being a bridge between dreams and reality. With her tagline, "Your Connector For All Your Real Estate Goals And Dreams," Tamera embodies this ethos in every interaction. Whether it's introducing clients to trusted vendors or guiding them through life's transitions, Tamera loves serving others and says she wakes up every day feeling blessed.

“What drives me is the relationships with people and helping them,” Tamera explains. “I loved recruiting people with talent for the right position so they could flourish in their lives. Now I’m doing the same thing by bettering lives through real estate. That brings me so much joy that I get to do this every day!”

While her expertise in real estate is undeniable, it's Tamera’s infectious energy and commitment to fun that truly set her apart. Celebrating her 20th year in the business last year, Tamera threw a phenomenal party, inviting 250 of her closest clients including vendors, family and friends — which speaks volumes about her remarkable ability to foster meaningful connections and lasting relationships.

“It was one of the best joys of my career seeing people at that party that I helped two decades ago and now I’m helping their children and even their parents,” Tamera beams. “When I first got into this business, I never dreamt of helping people through these sort of life transitions.”

Her advice to newer agents reflects her personal philosophy on how she runs her business and her life in general.

"Do what you said you would do, exceed expectations, and number one is communication with your clients and all those involved,” she counsels.

 

Outside of real estate, Tamera finds joy in her busy family life. Married to Jim for going on 26 years and counting, Tamera cherishes their time together, whether it's cheering on their favorite sports teams or enjoying a leisurely Sunday dinner with their five children, four of whom are now grown: Trevor (24) is also a real estate agent, twins Jared and Joel are 21, Trey is 19, and Jeslyn is 12. Described by Tamera as “an old soul,” their precious Shih Tzu Pomeranian, Lucy, adds an extra dose of love to the Toof home.

When time allows, Tamera loves catching the latest movie, shopping, or exploring new dining experiences and travel. Additionally, her commitment to giving back shines through her volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity, being a member of Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, and her leadership role in her church. She strives to use her time and talents for the good of others.

As Tamera looks ahead to the next chapter of her story, both personally and professionally, her vision remains clear: to continue building her real estate legacy while inspiring others to embrace their authenticity and find joy in every endeavor. With dreams of someday writing a book and becoming a renowned speaker, Tamera is poised to share her message of fun, humor, and humility with the world.

“I’m really about being your full, authentic self to get your weird on,” she concludes with a laugh. “By being 100-percent myself I can do better in all aspects of my life. I also want to share that message by writing about it, and I share it with my family every day by using humor and staying humble. I tell them to have fun in whatever they do and make it fun for others too!”