Having owned seven houses of her own previously while building two from the ground up, it’s safe to say this isn’t Dorothy McManaman’s first real estate rodeo. Having navigated through three previous careers as well, Dorothy’s already busy making a significant impact in less than two years as part of the Encompass Real Estate Team at Nebraska Realty.

"I started in real estate at 60 years old, but I have learned many things over the years in regards to making connections and paying attention to details,” Dorothy explains with a smile.

 

Originally from Bellevue, Nebraska, Dorothy grew up in Lincoln, where she attended Lincoln Southeast High School before earning a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her career path initially led her into retail sales and management, where she spent 15 years honing her people skills.

“Sales definitely helped me feel comfortable around people and read what they really are wanting,” Dorothy recalls. “Of course I also got used to working on commission since you didn’t get paid unless you sold a product!”

After her stint in retail, Dorothy co-owned a landscape and design business for roughly a dozen years. This period not only nurtured her passion for plants but also sharpened her business acumen and appreciation for aesthetics and detail. Her next adventure was in promotional product sales, another 12-year experience that further solidified her expertise in building client relationships.

Dorothy’s transition into real estate was finally sparked by the relentless encouragement of her long-time friend, Jen Stai. The two met at a Huskers football tailgate 17 years ago and Jen kept after Dorothy to get her license for years.

Jen’s encouragement finally led Dorothy to meet Arla Meyer, now her broker, who left a lasting impression.

“Arla is amazing,” Dorothy beams. “When I met her for coffee, I knew this is where I should be.”

Since starting her real estate career in October 2022, Dorothy has achieved remarkable success. Perhaps her most memorable listing will always be her first one though, as Dorothy’s mother-in-law passed away and she listed the house for her family.

“I do think she would be proud of me and the way I handled the sale,” Dorothy reflects.

In her first full year as a Realtor, Dorothy completed 20 transactions totaling $6.45 million in volume while snagging Nebraska Realty’s 2023 Rookie of the Year for Lincoln Metro. Her projections for the current year are even more impressive, with an expected volume of $8 million.

Dorothy’s fledgling achievements also include being consistently recognized among the Top 50 Agents in the team category and receiving several high-ranking team awards.

Regardless of her accolades, Dorothy says helping others achieve their goals is the true benchmark of her success.

“If my clients feel that I have helped them, we were able to form a strong connection, and I made an impact in their life, I would feel that I have achieved my goal,” she offers.

For Dorothy, real estate is not just about sales but about building meaningful, lasting relationships, something she learned over years in sales and promotions.

Dorothy’s faith also plays a crucial role in her upbeat, relaxed demeanor. Many buyers look to her as a calm, reassuring presence, especially young first-time home-buyers who may be nervous and frazzled.

“I always remember that God is with me and somehow he is going to help me figure this out. He is in control,” Dorothy points out. “I meet so many new people and hopefully they see Christ through me as I approach things with a kind and positive attitude.

“I pray for my clients too,” she adds. “This is my new ministry.”

 

Outside of her new career, Dorothy enjoys the love and support of her close-knit family. She has been married to her husband, Mark, for 42  years. “We started dating at 16!” she reminisces. The couple have two children: Meredith, a physician assistant in dermatology, and Tyler, who works in demolition/construction.

Dorothy also cherishes her two granddaughters, Marley and Maci, and enjoys spending time with her grand-dog, Harper, an Irish cream lab, who she frequently dog sits while her daughter is at work — even if she is “a real handful!

Dorothy may have plenty of hobbies, but gardening is her life-long passion.

“I absolutely love gardening — that was such a big part of my life for a long time! Now I try to get my granddaughters to help me so we can all appreciate gardening together,” she smiles.

She also enjoys yoga, biking, walking, interior decorating, and spending quality time laughing and enjoying life with her loved ones. Dorothy is deeply involved in her faith as well through the International Bible Study Fellowship (BSF] for the last 16 years. She has held leadership positions through the years as well.

 

As she looks to the future, Dorothy is excited to continue making new connections in real estate while she aims to ramp up her philanthropic efforts again now that her grandchildren are getting older.

“I would like to help on a committee for affordable housing and tiny houses to give back to the community,” she shares.

Dorothy also envisions a long-term career in real estate, with a focus on helping others.

“I see myself in real estate for a long time to come — in the same capacity, but perhaps less sales down the road and more just helping other people in Lincoln,” she concludes.

“Life is about relationships and having the capability to meet new families. I am able to hear their stories, make connections, and help others find their forever homes where they can continue to grow.”