









About Derek
In his career, Derek has already sold 1100+ homes and set a Lincoln record by Selling Over 175+ Homes in 2017 alone... Though he didn't do it alone! Derek is quick to admit that he couldn't have reached this success without the help of his experienced group of listing agents, buyers agents, and dedicated admin staff to aid in such accomplishments.
Along with being a sales agent and real estate team mentor, Derek is also a co-owner of the local Keller Williams Brokerage in Lincoln, Nebraska. Keller Williams Realty Nationwide is ranked #1 in Agent Count, #1 in Dollar Volume Sold, and #1 in Units Sold.
Transaction History
- 1 Year
- 2 Year
- 5 Year
Seller Deals
Buyer Deals
Production Over Time
1 Year View by Quarter
Seller Deals
Buyer Deals
Production Over Time
2 Year View by Quarter
Seller Deals
Buyer Deals
Production Over Time
5 Year View
Neighborhoods Derek Has the Most Experience In
Derek's Listings and Deals
Derek's Recent Active Listings
-
$279,000
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 2,216 Sq Ft
- 830 S 70th St
- Lincoln, NE
Spacious Brick Multi-Level Home in Desirable Wedgewood Manor Neighborhood within the East High School District! This 3+1 Bed, 2 Bath home is oversized with over 1,600sf above grade (2,200+ total finished sq ft) & features original oak hardwood floors & tile in the entire home, new paint throughout, open living room dining room concept, updated kitchen with cherry cabinets and stainless steel
Derek Kats Keller Williams Lincoln
-
$450,000
- 2 Beds
- 1 Bath
- 1,272 Sq Ft
- 900 Lakeshore Dr
- Lincoln, NE
Contract Pending Sought After Lakeside Property on Capitol Beach! A rare opportunity for waterfront living, without having to leave the city. This desirable 1-story ranch home has 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom featuring an open concept floorplan with vaulted ceilings adorned with the original wood ceiling and beams. Other featured include a galley kitchen with oversized breakfast bar and stainless
Derek Kats Keller Williams Lincoln
-
$200,000
- 2 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 1,504 Sq Ft
- 509 NW 16th St
- Unit 5
- Lincoln, NE
Excellent Location and Updating in this Attractive 2-Story Condo near Capital Beach Lake! This 2-Bed, 2-Bath home has had many recent improvements and updates such as luxury vinyl flooring, refinished natural wood floors, new carpet on the stairs, new wall, trim, and ceiling paint throughout the home and garage, new bathroom vanity sets, toilets, and showers. The home features a first floor with
Derek Kats Keller Williams Lincoln
-
$214,500
- 3 Beds
- 2 Baths
- 1,764 Sq Ft
- 511 NW 16th St
- Unit 6
- Lincoln, NE
Excellent Location and Updating in this Attractive 2-Story Condo near Capital Beach Lake! This 3-Bed, 2-Bath home has had recent improvements and updates such as new roof, gutters, exterior paint, new lights. The home features a first floor with a pass through kitchen (all appliances stay). The kitchen opens to the dining area, living room with walkout doors to the side patio, first floor
Derek Kats Keller Williams Lincoln
-
$2,900,000
- 5 Beds
- 4 Baths
- 10,826 Sq Ft
- 2880 County Road A
- Valparaiso, NE
Built high upon a picturesque 30-acre parcel lined with mature trees, this estate is a masterpiece of contemporary luxury living. The stunning custom-built 11,000+ sf mansion is like-new and only a 20 minute drive with a single stoplight from downtown Lincoln. This resort like environment offers unparalleled views and exclusive access to private hunting and fishing on the serene North Oak Creek
Derek Kats Keller Williams Lincoln
-
$325,000
- 4 Beds
- 1 Bath
- 2,354 Sq Ft
- 555 Peach St
- Hallam, NE
Contract Pending Small town living only 15 minutes from Lincoln! Historical Character Meets Modern Updating in this 1900's Turn-of-the-Century 2-Story Home, sitting on 3 city lots spanning nearly 3/4 an acre! This classic home has had a full renovation in 2004 as well as many updates newly completed by the current owners. The first floor features an open living room to dining room floorplan,
Derek Kats Keller Williams Lincoln
-
$365,000
- 2 Beds
- 1 Bath
- 1,356 Sq Ft
- 3800 SW 16th St
- Lincoln, NE
Rare in-town acreage that is technically just outside of city limits! This is your opportunity to own an updated 1-story home with a partially finished basement sitting on over 2 acres. This property is fully-fenced, tree-lined on two sides, and incudes an oversized detached 2-stall garage with lean-to shop. The interior of the home has hardwood floors and features an updated kitchen with
Derek Kats Keller Williams Lincoln
-
Co-Listing Agent
$159,500
- 3 Beds
- 1 Bath
- 1,042 Sq Ft
- 1402 Rose St
- Lincoln, NE
Investor Special! Turnkey Opportunity in South Lincoln! Whether you're a seasoned investor or a first-time homebuyer, this updated ranch-style home is a smart addition to your portfolio. Featuring 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, and convenient main floor laundry, the home offers an open living space, a modern kitchen with pantry, and a beautifully renovated bathroom. Enjoy outdoor living with a new covered
Derek Kats Keller Williams Lincoln
-
$189,000
- 2 Beds
- 1.5 Baths
- 1,104 Sq Ft
- 2142 Southwood Place
- Lincoln, NE
Excellent Location and Updating in this Low-Maintenance 2-Story Townhome with Basement in Desirable Southwood Place! This private community is right next to amazing amenities such as a dog park, pickle ball courts, baseball fields, a park, and a pond. This 2-Bed, 2-Bath home features a first floor with kitchen (all appliances stay), dining area, living room with sliding glass door access to the
Derek Kats Keller Williams Lincoln
Awards and Designations
- Broker/Owner of the Year
- Highest Total Sales Volume
- REALTOR® of the Year
- Top REALTOR®
- NAR - National Association of Realtors
Other Experience
Derek's Reviews
5/23/25Rebeca Solo
Google Review
5/9/25Andrew Savchenko
Google Review
5/8/25Hubbard Duranski
Google Review
Derek set the standard for others to follow
His actions on the sale of the house to include the outstanding pictures were beyond reproach
His ability to work with us on our timeline shows how a real professional works
5/1/25Tim Miner
Google Review
4/30/25Brando Ramirez
Google Review
Derek's expertise in the market was evident from our initial phone call. He exceeded my expectations when it came to looking for a home. Coming into the market as a first-time homeowner, I was not very knowledgeable. By the end of the closing, I have learned so much from this experience and still continue to learn. Moving forward, I will recommend Derek to colleagues.
4/29/25Yeon Hee Jung
Google Review
4/14/25Stephen Mizell
Google Review
Derek worked around the clock even after closing to make sure that we were happy with the house he had found for us. Thank you so much for helping us move and making us feel confident in our choices.
1/31/25MUSOKE RICHARD
Google Review
1/28/25Eileen Marrison
Google Review
Very helpful, gave us great suggestions to get the house sold faster!
1/21/25Karla Archer
Google Review
Derek was exactly what we needed to get our house sold! We were nervous about the entire process, the time it would take and everything involved--Derek put us at ease and made everything work to our benefit! We recommend Derek and his team to anyone selling or buying property! We are sure there is no challenge too great for Derek and he will put you at ease through it all!
1/13/25Mo Sal
Google Review
Derek is a very great realtor to work with! By far the best I have worked with, Very knowledgeable and literally has the answer to every question you have! He will ensure the process goes extremely smooth & hassle free. He will ensure you are getting the best deal whether it is on the buying or selling end! His expertise in this field is definitely somebody you should trust with your home. 5 stars and above all the way for Derek! Definitely recommend and will definitely be working again with him in future!
1/10/25Jerimiah Troudt
Google Review
Derek was a great asset to our search for a house. Entirely new experience for us and without someone with his level of knowledge and care we would have been lost. He made sure to find out what we're were looking for and offer guidance as we looked at houses. Great realtor and I would definitely recommend him to anyone who is looking for such services.
12/31/24Travis J Keithley (Travis J)
Google Review
Derek was very knowledgeable and was very respectful when keeping within our budget and showing us homes that had all the things we were looking for when it came to our first home. Thanks again Derek.
12/21/24brad plagge
Google Review
Derek is very knowledged in the market, extremely nice and helpful. He has helped me purchase two houses now.
12/13/24Julie Valencia
Google Review
Derek is a nice guy and fantastic realtor. He helped me out and I truly appreciate his efforts. I would definitely recommend him and I met him b/c I read these wonderful reviews and contacted him with questions. VERY POSITIVE EXPERIENCE🥇Thanks, Derek!
12/9/24Melanie Suhr
Google Review
I first met Derek Kats when I showed up for "moral support" at the sale of a friends house. He was very personable and well-spoken. Months later I found myself in need of a realtor to help sell my mom's house, I called upon my friends. They gave many reasons why Derek was the best realtor to list with, so I did. Derek was "Johnny on the spot" as he helped me through every step of the process. Thank you, Derek, for being trustworthy and dependable! I wouldn't hesitate to list with you again!
12/7/24W A
Google Review
Derek is the man.
12/6/24Teresa Fields
Google Review
Derek Kats, is amazing realtor, he works with his clients every step of the way, he's truely genuine and also makes his clients feel right at home and helps them every step of the way to find their new dream home. He's definitely works hard on the team and 24/7 give it his all. Get him as your leasing agent. And you won't forget him. He's definitely all Stars. He will give you honesty and tell you like it is.. He shows up and answers all your questions. We love him as a realtor. He's definitely worth it.
12/6/24Cameron Krueger
Google Review
Derek is hands down my go-to man for anything real estate. He responds quick, treats you with priority, and provides a high level of customer service. He also has an extensive network of professionals across the state of NE. Would recommend him to anyone looking to buy, sell, or invest!
12/6/24Jeremy Kirstine
Google Review
Always willing to help or answer questions I have when it comes to selling , buying , realtor needs !
12/6/24Jeff Nelson
Google Review
I have known and worked with Derek for a very long time. He cares about his customers and his knowledge of real estate shines through on all his transactions.
12/6/24Josh Nix
Google Review
Derek is one of the most knowledgeable agents I know. He has seen and been through a lot of different situations. He definitely the real deal and have enjoyed working with him.
12/6/24Sarah Terrano
Google Review
I’ve bought a house twice in my life and once with Derek… I will now only use Derek from this point on. He listened to everything I had concerns with, communicated quickly with all parties involved and got me into my dream house quickly and smoothly. Even after we moved in, were all settled and had a question about the house; Derek made sure to get answers for us! Above and beyond!
12/4/24dave miller
Google Review
Derek was always professional, pleasant, n quick to reply to my questions. As my realtor, he always had my interests in mind. I was always glad to use his services when I was flipping houses.
Recently, I sold a property using Derek. It was sold within a week. He is very good at what he does. Thanks Derek
11/30/24penny clark
Google Review
11/25/24Ethan Kermmoade
Google Review
11/20/24Veronica Jakub
Google Review
Derek helped us find numerous rental properties in 2016/2017. They turned out to be terrific investments. He was very easy to work with and professional in his demeanor. The process of searching, finding, and buying was very smooth.
9/13/24D Thomas
Google Review
We were introduced to Derek through social media sites. From the moment he took our real estate listing to the final sale, he performed timely and professionally to complete the sale to the satisfaction of both the seller and the buyer. Derek is the professional you want working on your behalf when buying or selling real estate.
9/4/24Brent
Google Review
Best experience ever. Very knowledgeable.
8/10/24Stanley Sears
Google Review
Derek is human and humane as well as: friendly, agreeable, knowledgeable, interested in people, honest, hard-working, reliable with an intangible yet palatable ability to make large decisions easier. These characteristics are indeed a rare find in modern life. We would do well to have more like him.
Thank you, Derek!
7/29/24Jo Sterling
Google Review
Very thorough!!
7/27/24Derek Lohner
Google Review
7/19/24Shari Lohner
Google Review
Derek is a fantastic realtor. He sold our home fast! Highly recommend.
7/11/24Shelly Rea
Google Review
6/24/24Patricia Lucchese
Google Review
Derek, I am 100 percent satisfied with everything you have done. You go out of your way to help us and see that our needs are met to the best of your ability. You are our "go to" Realtor always!!
6/21/24Maxine Lickteig
Google Review
Derek was wonderful to work with - he really takes his time and looks over every detail to make sure his clients are getting a good deal and nothing is overlooked. Highly recommend.
6/13/24Jordan Nash
Google Review
6/8/24Bob Carter
Google Review
Derek always gave me the time I needed to buy or sell and stayed on top of the transaction until completed.
6/6/24Mitchell Woeste
Google Review
Derek helped me every step of the way. He is great with communication and is very knowledgeable. I will for sure work with him in the future. Highly recommended!
6/6/24Phuong Nguyen
Google Review
6/4/24Frank “Frank”
Google Review
Derek works hard with me throughout the whole process. It was a pleasure to work with him and his entire team! He has a professional team working for him, instead of working as an individual.
6/4/24deejay scharton
Google Review
Stayed on top of everything, kept me posted on all aspects of the listing and was great to work with, thanks again!
5/31/24Justin Blankenship
Google Review
5/19/24Casey Wittstruck
Google Review
Derek Kats knows reality and can get you in a house you love for a good price. Being trustworthy, hard working, and his knowledge of the industry make Derek the right choice!
5/19/24Jim Burkhardt
Google Review
5/15/24Amanda Almanza
Google Review
Derek led me through the process of finding and purchasing my first home in my early twenties. It was a big move for me and my family but thanks to Derek's dedicated effort to guide us every step of the way we bought our first home without any roadblocks along the way. Thanks so much! -Amanda
5/14/24J K
Google Review
One of the best in Lincoln.
5/11/24Karee Dunn
Google Review
Derek is fantastic. He was super responsive and helped us negotiate a great deal to get THE house. We still reach out to him when we need a recommendation for any house type work, and his recommendations are always fantastic and much better priced than anyone else! To be more short and sweet about it- Do yourself a favor- hire the man!
5/11/24Darin Kats
Google Review
The best realtor in Nebraska and beyond. I look forward to doing business again, in the future.
5/10/24Melody Payne
Google Review
Derek is awesome. He went above and beyond helping us find a home that fit our needs. I would recommend him to anyone looking for a home.
5/9/24Richard Lamken
Google Review
Derek Kats helped us purchase our first home. He was great to work with and made the process pleasant!
5/9/24Lorri Ring
Google Review
Derek is a great realtor! He worked hard to get us the home that we wanted! He knows what he’s doing!
5/2/24Monique Peetz
Google Review
Derek was attentive and worked hard to get our houses sold.
4/29/24Chris Davis
Google Review
Derek was a god send. Not only did he help sell our home for our asking price, but he found me a perfect space to relocate. He managed every detail without falter and took all of the stress out of the process. I can’t suggest his service or firm enough!
4/26/24Alfred Carvalho
Google Review
I had the pleasure of working with Derek Kats in 2015, and I must say, their professionalism and dedication were exceptional. From start to finish, they guided me through every step of the process, ensuring that my needs were met and my questions answered. Their expertise and attention to detail made the entire experience smooth and stress-free. I highly recommend Derek Kats to anyone in need of a reliable and knowledgeable real estate agent.
4/19/24Brad Peetz
Google Review
4/5/24Eric Kosmicki
Google Review
Best realtor around. Super personable and goes over and above to find you in the house you desire. 2 weeks after he got us our house, we had a baby and got back from the hospital to find our AC went out and actually paid to get it fixed for us as a housewarming/baby present. I dont know of any realtors that would reach into their pocket to fix a major appliance after the deal was done. I cant recommend him enough!
4/1/24Michael Chapman
Google Review
I can trust that Derek has what's in our best interest, as his top property.
3/5/24Hugo Gomez
Google Review
We have worked with Derek and his team twice in Lincoln, NE. Derek represented us both as new home buyers back in 2016 and more recently as sellers in December 2023. We could not be happier with his professionalism and agility. From the first meeting to closing, he and his team were in constant communication answering all the questions and making the whole process easy for us. I highly recommend his services to anyone without hesitation!
2/20/24Assel Saparova
Google Review
Derek is very professional, respectful and competent. He helped us twice, to buy and sell our house. We were very happy and would call him again if needed. Highly recommended.
2/15/24Anthony Greisen
Google Review
Best realtor in town
2/13/24Nizar Gulay
Google Review
Excellent service.
11/4/23Kay Stephens
Google Review
Derek’s plan for the sale of our house was well thought out and detailed. When we first met with him it was a two way conversation. He really listened to us and answered all our questions. He constructed a good marketing plan. Derek was great about communicating with us. He dropped the personal things he had going on to field the offers for our house. If we had it to do over again we would choose Derek again.
12/6/22Amber Ramer
Google Review
12/6/22Tedum Npimnee
Google Review
Very knowledgeable, full of integrity, and one heck of a smile. I’d work with him again.
12/6/22Tucker
Google Review
2/20/22Brent Protiva
Google Review
David Kim has to be the best agent bar none. He went above and beyond to make me feel comfortable, informed and positive through every step of the process. He is extremely knowledgeable about the Lincoln market. He went above and beyond to even help do repairs prior to listing. He is very patient and will keep you smiling and laughing throughout the process.
2/19/22james holz
Google Review
Amy was always in contact with us, and did a great job handling the sale of our property.
2/9/22Alexa Clark
Google Review
We are so thankful for Derek! He helped us purchase our first home in Colorado and gave us the best experience! We had zero issues! He was always more than willing to go above and beyond to make sure our home needs/wishes were met! He was always contacting us in a timely matter letting us know updates etc. about the house and negotiations. He is very knowledgeable and knew of major details/deadlines other realtors missed that could of caused us not to get the home we desired! Thank you Derek for your outstanding service, professionalism, knowledge, skills, and care for me and my family. We love our home and can honestly say we enjoyed the first time home owners experience because of the help and wisdom we received from Derek and his team!
2/4/22Heather Davison
Google Review
Derek was so patient with me. He helped me find the perfect house that fit my family. Derek is beyond knowledgeable about business and real estate that I felt very confident in him to take care of our home buying needs and he did that and more!
2/2/22Doug Dworak
Google Review
Jordan Pool is one of the hardest working, diligent and professional relators in the business. He works relentlessly to find you the perfect home or rental property that fits both your financial requirements and your specific space needs. I promise you...give him a chance and he will deliver!
2/2/22Andrew Ross
Google Review
Derek Kats is extremely knowledgeable and experienced in the local real estate markets. He has a perspective as both an investor himself as well as representing a large network as an agent or consultant. He is easy to work with, responsive, and understands the real estate industry in a holistic and comprehensive standpoint. He has a strong work ethic and is works with a large network of industry professionals.
1/27/22Jake Owen
Google Review
I was working with Realtor Carie Leyden in 2021, would highly recommend her and her team!
1/27/22Craig Frerichs
Google Review
Amy is a true professional from start to finish and completes the job the first time. I have never been more relaxed about doing a real estate transaction and walking away completely satisfied. Amy has been the type of leader we all need in are business relations.
1/26/22Michael Fergus
Google Review
1/20/22Denise Haggadone
Google Review
David Kim was great to work with. He spoke up on details if I was oblivious to them. He also presented pros and cons of the properties I was looking at. He did not try to push properties that were out of my price range. He was very laid back and easy to talk too.
He did his job researching the properties and always had a list to present to me. He also sent reminders for the next step and offered advice on the best options. He made the process a lot easier and kept me on track. I would highly recommend him. He is not overwhelming and in your face. I will definitely use him again.
1/19/22nathan payne
Google Review
Derek and Amy where so informative at every stage and our selling experience a stress free joy!
1/13/22Regina Lashley
Google Review
1/12/22Taren
Google Review
Very helpful to work with always had the answer or would be able to find it in a timely fashion and as a first fine home buyer made sure I knew what to expect and help me figure out what I'm looking for
1/8/22Scott Zajicek
Google Review
1/7/22Maksim Osiychuk
Google Review
Number 1 for a reason!
Professional service from Derek and the KW Team. Received great advice backed up by research and experience. Looking forward to closing more deals. Thank You
1/5/22Mike
Google Review
Have worked with Derek and his team for years. On every transaction they have exceeding my expectations either purchasing or selling my properties. Very professional group that has the experience to get the job done.! Highly recommend!
1/5/22Changwoo Jung
Google Review
Good!
12/7/21Diane Kats
Google Review
Carie Leyden is a great realtor with Kats & Associates/KW! She is always pleasant, willing to answer any and all questions, and responds back quickly. She gets 5 stars!
12/3/21United Equity
Google Review
I have been working with Derek for over a decade now. Some of my very first investment purchases were with Derek, and I continue to work with him to this day. With thousands of realtors to choose from, I've never given a second thought to working with anyone but Derek and his team. His real estate knowledge is off the charts. You won't find many agents as well versed as him. I started my business at zero and have grown to hero with this guy and his team.
11/21/21Ronald Auman
Google Review
Derek is a very reliable person. I've dealt with him for several years.
11/21/21Marlene Auman
Google Review
If you want a reliable honest person to deal with Derek Kats is that person.
10/12/21RUBY SARAH LAPAY
Google Review
1/23/18Tyler Irons
Google Review
Derek is an extremely knowledgeable agent with tons of experience. If you're looking for an agent who will put in the work and go the extra mile I would highly recommend Derek.
6/27/17Alex Mizerski
Google Review
Derek crushed it. We couldn't have asked for a better experience. Would highly recommend to each and every home seller out there.
5/24/17Michelle Lopez
Google Review
Derek will always be someone I strongly recommend to others who may be buying or selling a home. He was very professional, easy to get a hold of at all times, always responded to my inquiries (no matter how big or small), and he definitely knows his stuff when it comes to buying and selling a home. He worked hard to sell my house that I had deemed "un-sellable." And what do you know, Derek sold my house in one month of being listed! He sold it when other realtors that we had used prior to meeting Derek were unable to do. As one of the top realtors in Lincoln, I know how busy he is. But I cannot tell you how easy he is to reach! Even if it's just to say he'll get back to you a little later, he will always respond, and I cannot appreciate that more. Derek truly provided the greatest home buying and selling experience I could have ever expected!

