Meet the Team Behind Ruhter Auction & Realty
Decades of Experience,
Generations of Trust
Travis Augustin is a cornerstone of Ruhter Auction & Realty, carrying forward our founder Randy’s vision with his unique expertise and insight. Since joining our team as an auction assistant/ring man in the summer of 1995, Travis has developed into a key player, contributing significantly to our firm’s success.
Before fully committing himself to the world of auctions and real estate, Travis spent ten years operating a row crop and cow/calf operation. This firsthand experience in production agriculture has been invaluable, enhancing his understanding of our ag real estate and farm equipment clients’ needs.
In 2004, Travis obtained his Real Estate Sales Associate license in Nebraska, extending his services to Kansas by earning a license there the following year. He transitioned from the family farming operation to focus full-time on Ruhter Auction & Realty in 2006. Later that year, Travis honed his skills at the renowned World Wide College of Auctioneering. He has since been instrumental in the successful execution of hundreds of real estate and personal property auctions.
The year 2014 marked a significant milestone for Travis. Alongside Ryan Samuelson, he acquired Ruhter Auction & Realty from co-founders Randy and Barb Ruhter. This transition was underpinned by his 20 years of dedicated service and learning alongside Randy and Barb. Their lessons continue to guide him as he consistently delivers positive results for our clients.
Today, Travis serves as the managing broker for our company and maintains active participation in both National and State Auctioneer Associations. A devoted family man, he lives on an acreage northwest of Hastings with his wife Kelly and their four children: Tobie, Alex, Praxton, and Annika.
Travis is always eager to lend his skills and experience to those in need of auction or real estate services. Whether you are a buyer or a seller, he welcomes your call at 402-469-0219. With his vast knowledge, hands-on experience, and dedication, you can trust Travis to assist you every step of the way in your real estate or auction endeavors.
Travis Augustin
Managing Broker & Auctioneer
Ryan Samuelson, an integral part of the Ruhter Auction & Realty team, brings to the table a rich heritage and unique perspective grounded in his personal journey and professional expertise. Joining our company in 2013 after his family exited their 100+ year John Deere dealership legacy, Ryan’s roots run deep in the agricultural and equipment industry.
Before contributing his talents to the family business, Ryan was actively involved in hay and livestock, providing him with invaluable firsthand experience that aids his understanding of our clientele’s unique needs.
Ryan came on board with his Nebraska real estate license already earned and wasted no time in securing his Broker’s license. By 2015, Ryan expanded his reach to Kansas, completing both his real estate license and Broker’s license there.
In February of 2014, Ryan further honed his auctioneering skills by graduating from the esteemed World Wide College of Auctioneering. Just a month later, he conducted his first auction. Since then, Ryan has had the opportunity to lead several personal property and equipment auctions, gleaning insights into the intricacies of conducting a professional auction. Ryan readily acknowledges the vital role of the clerk in a successful Live auction.
As the auction industry continues to evolve, Ryan and the Ruhter Auction & Realty team have adeptly navigated the changes. They’ve seamlessly transitioned to online-only auctions and Simulcast auctions for both real estate and equipment. As Ryan notes, “The Auction business will continue to change and the companies that continue to adapt in the marketing aspects will thrive.”
Away from the auction house, Ryan is a dedicated family man, residing in Hastings with his wife, Julie, and their three children, Morgan, Breck, and Irelyn.
As a co-owner of Ruhter Auction & Realty, Ryan continues to demonstrate his commitment to adaptability, professionalism, and excellence in service, leveraging his diverse experiences to create successful outcomes for our clients.
Ryan Samuelson
Associate Broker & Auctioneer
DJ, our esteemed co-owner, embodies the perfect blend of deep-rooted agricultural knowledge and cutting-edge industry insight. Raised on a fifth-generation family farm near Trumbull, NE, DJ’s understanding of the agricultural sector is both instinctual and refined through years of hands-on experience.
DJ’s academic journey in Agricultural Economics from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2015 laid the groundwork for his comprehensive understanding of the sector. Since graduating, he has gathered a wealth of experience from various aspects of the Ag industry, demonstrating his versatility and keen ability to adapt.
His professional journey has been diverse and enriching. DJ worked as a crop adjuster for Crop Risk Services, honed his merchandising skills as a Specialty Grain Merchandiser for Central Valley Ag, and expanded his perspective significantly as a regional sales rep for IronConnect. In this role, he covered an extensive area across the United States and Canada, encountering many different types of farming operations.
In 2019, DJ obtained his Real Estate Associate license in Nebraska, further augmenting his portfolio of services. An alumni of the World Wide College of Auctioneering, DJ embodies the art and precision of professional auctioneering. He is an active member of both the Nebraska Auctioneers Association and the National Auctioneers Association, demonstrating his commitment to his profession and his clients.
Away from the hustle and bustle of auctions and real estate, DJ leads a fulfilling family life. He and his wife, Samantha, are based in Hastings, where they enjoy their time with their son John and daughter June.
DJ’s unique blend of farming background, diverse professional experiences, and auctioneering expertise makes him a reliable guide in your real estate and auction journey. Trust DJ to bring to you the same commitment, knowledge, and dedication that he has displayed throughout his illustrious career.
Julie Samuelson is a vital member of the Ruhter Auction & Realty team, gracefully steering our auctions’ financial aspects with her exceptional expertise and composure. Julie joined our ranks as a licensed Real Estate Salesperson in 2015, and the following year, she embraced her role as our Auction Manager.
Her primary responsibilities include managing all funds at our Personal Property Auctions, whether they’re live or online. She works closely with both buyers and sellers, ensuring a seamless flow of transactions. Her calm demeanor is a lighthouse amidst the hustle of auctions, ensuring a smooth operation at all times.
Julie and our co-owner, Ryan Samuelson, have been married since 1996 and together they’ve built a beautiful family. They have three children: Morgan, Breck, and Irelyn, and they call Hastings their home. Julie’s strong family values, deep faith, and unyielding dedication to our team significantly contribute to her role and make her an indispensable asset to Ruhter Auction & Realty.
Her relentless pursuit of excellence and her wholehearted commitment to our clientele align seamlessly with our company’s core values. Julie’s love for her family, her faith, and her genuine care for our team exemplifies her integral role in our organization’s ongoing success. We are grateful for the unique skills, expertise, and warmth that she brings to Ruhter Auction & Realty.
Julie Samuelson
Real Estate Sales Associate; Auction Manager
Kelly, who joined our team in May 2016, brings a burst of positive energy and warmth to Ruhter Auction & Realty. As our first point of contact, her radiant smile and vivacious personality offer a warm welcome to all who walk through our doors or reach out to us. She’s always ready to guide you towards the team member best suited to your needs.
Not only does Kelly excel at creating a friendly and inviting atmosphere, but she’s also the mastermind behind our effective digital marketing strategies. She takes charge of all aspects of our digital presence, from our website to our social media channels, to maximize the exposure of our seller’s properties. Kelly’s innovative thinking and keen understanding of the digital space are crucial in propelling our listings to a wide audience.
Kelly and our co-owner, Travis, have been happily married since 2004. They are proud parents of four children: Tobie, Alex, Praxton, and Annika. The family resides on a lovely acreage outside of Juniata, where they enjoy the tranquility and space it provides.
Kelly’s commitment to her faith, dedication to her family, and strong bond with our team make her an indispensable asset to Ruhter Auction & Realty. She embodies our company’s spirit, bringing a sense of community and connection to our work, ensuring that every client feels valued and understood. With Kelly at the helm of our digital marketing and front-desk operations, you’re guaranteed an outstanding service experience.
Kelly Augustin
Marketing Director; Office Administrator
Jennifer Kully, a licensed Real Estate Salesperson since 2022, brings a distinctive blend of dynamism, experience, and camaraderie to the Ruhter Auction & Realty team. Jennifer’s journey with our company started back in 2018, when she began contributing her services to our live and online auctions. Her remarkable work ethic, coupled with her contagious smile and laughter, instantly resonated with our team and clientele, making her a perfect fit for our company culture.
Jennifer shares her life with her husband, Jeff Kully, and their two adult children, daughter Jaiden and her husband Christian and son Jace. She not only excels in her professional capacity but also contributes significantly to her local community. Jennifer serves on several Boards in the Adams County area, making a meaningful difference through her active involvement.
Her love for her family, faith, and our team shines through in her work, making her an invaluable asset to Ruhter Auction & Realty. Jennifer’s commitment to her clients and her community mirrors our company’s values and passion for helping others achieve their real estate dreams.
Trust in Jennifer’s expertise and dedication as she navigates the real estate landscape with you, working tirelessly to ensure your experience is smooth, rewarding, and tailored to your unique needs.
Jennifer Kully
Real Estate Sale Associate
Chad was raised on his family farm in the Hastings and Juniata area, graduating from Adams Central High School in 2006. After enlisting in the United States Marine Corps in 2008, Chad served as an aviation radar technician and was deployed to Afghanistan in 2010. Following his military service, he returned to Hastings and worked in agriculture as a precision agronomy technician.
In 2014, Chad became a police officer for the city of Hastings, serving his community. However, his desire to continue military service led him to rejoin the Marines in 2017, where he served again as a radar technician and Senior Enlisted Advisor, including a deployment to Iraq in 2020. Chad exited active duty in 2024 and joined Ruhter Auction & Realty as the Auction and Logistics Manager.
Chad resides in Hastings with his wife, Britney, and their sons, Riley and Elijah. His combined military, technical, and community service experience make him an invaluable asset to the team.
Chad Daugherty
Auction & Logistics Manager
Ashley comes to the team as a Farm Risk and Management Specialist with a deep-rooted background in banking and agricultural lending. She can help clients navigate the complexities of finances with confidence. Specializing in budgeting and creating financial plans, she empowers farmers and agribusiness owners to take control of their financial future while mitigating risks. Every task that Ashley handles is met with accuracy, organization and a fine attention to detail. As a licensed crop insurance agent, she blends expertise and practicality to safeguard what matters most to you—your land, livelihood, and legacy.
When she is not crunching numbers or crafting strategies, she is pursuing her greatest passions in life- her husband and their children. Ashley and her husband Cody call Hastings their home and have been happily married since 2021. They spend most of their time chasing after their two energetic boys, Colton and Mason, as they navigate their latest adventures. When they aren’t in the midst of their children’s activities, their family can be found at the lake, golf course, cheering on their favorite sports teams, or exploring new destinations.
Let’s work together to turn your risks into opportunities and your goals into accomplishments.
Ashley Phillips
Farm Risk & Management Specialist
Born and raised in Hastings, Nebraska, Britney Daugherty brings a wealth of leadership experience and a passion for precision to the Ruhter Auction & Realty team. A 2006 graduate of Hastings High School, Britney has spent more than a decade excelling in management roles across a variety of industries.
Her talent for organization and natural commitment to customer service shine through in every auction she coordinates. Whether she’s managing logistics behind the scenes or ensuring clients and bidders have a smooth experience, Britney approaches each task with focus, professionalism, and care. Known for her people-first mindset and keen attention to detail, she consistently delivers results with a personal touch.
When she’s not overseeing auction operations, Britney enjoys life with her husband Chad and their two boys, Riley and Elijah. She’s the kind of teammate who keeps everything running seamlessly — and makes it look easy.
Britney Daugherty
Online Auction Coordinator
At the heart of our business lies the unique vision of our founder, Randy. For over five decades, Randy has dedicated his life to the art of auctions, becoming one of the most experienced and recognized professionals in his field.
Starting his auction career in 1967, Randy has overseen successful auctions not only across a large expanse of Nebraska but also in multiple other states. His work echoes his deep understanding of the trade, leading every auction with precision, professionalism, and a keen understanding of the market trends.
His journey in real estate sales began almost 25 years ago, and he has held his Nebraska Real Estate Brokers license since 1984. Over the course of his distinguished career, Randy has skillfully orchestrated the sale of thousands of acres of prime farmland in and around south-central Nebraska, further solidifying his reputation in the industry.
Beyond property sales, Randy’s expertise in the sale of personal property, particularly farm equipment, is second to none. He conducts as many as a hundred or more personal property auctions annually, a testament to his skill and credibility. This extensive experience and product knowledge have empowered him to complete hundreds of meticulous property appraisals.
Randy’s contributions to the auctioneering community go beyond his own enterprise. He has held numerous positions, including Director, Secretary/Treasurer, and President of the Nebraska Auctioneers Association. His dedication and talent were recognized in 1989 when he was named the “Auctioneer of the Year” by the same association.
At the national level, Randy served a three-year term as a Director of the National Auctioneers Association and chaired the Membership Committee. He remains an active participant in the association’s Governmental Affairs Committee.
With a passion for sharing his wisdom, Randy has frequently been invited to speak at seminars and conventions, locally and nationally. His efforts were duly recognized when he was inducted into the National Auctioneer’s Hall of Fame on July 12, 2008 – a true testament to his dedication and excellence in his field.
Off the auction stage, Randy is a dedicated family man. Alongside his wife Barb, he is a proud parent to two married daughters and a doting grandparent to Jeremy, Janessa, and Jacob. He relishes in supporting his grandchildren in all their endeavors, his commitment to family reflecting the same dedication he extends to his professional life.
Through his commitment, passion, and wealth of experience, Randy has set the foundation of our business. He is the driving force behind our success, exemplifying excellence in the field of auctioneering. His legacy continues to inspire our work and service to our clients.
Randy Ruhter
Founder & Associate Broker
With a distinguished real estate career spanning over 42 years, Eileen Saathoff brings a wealth of experience and a keen eye for detail to her role as an Associate Broker at Ruhter Auction & Realty. Her specialty lies in residential marketing and property management, where she tirelessly focuses on transforming houses into homes for families.
Eileen’s extensive knowledge is bolstered by her education at the Realtors Institute of Nebraska and Hastings College. Her commitment to professional development and excellence has allowed her to maintain a high standard of service throughout her career.
Apart from her professional achievements, Eileen has a robust record of community involvement. A member of the Faith Lutheran Church, she serves on the Board of Trustees, acting as a congregational advocate for Thrivent. Furthermore, she is on the Advisory Board for Good Samaritan Village and serves as treasurer for the Young at Heart Women’s Club. In the past, she has served as an officer of the Hastings Board of Realtors and continues to be a member of the Local, State, and National Board of Realtors. Eileen is also a proud mentor for the Hastings Chapter Teammates Mentor program.
On a personal level, Eileen and her husband, Lee Saathoff, are the proud parents and stepparents to six children. Their large family extends to thirteen grandchildren, aged between 1 and 23 years, whose antics keep them both young at heart.
Eileen’s expansive career, coupled with her community involvement and family-centric approach, make her a vital member of our team. Her professional guidance and personal touch ensure that when you work with Eileen, you’re not just finding a house—you’re discovering your next home.
Eileen Saathoff
Associate Broker
Janine, a dedicated member of the Ruhter Auction & Realty team, has been contributing her skills and expertise to our company since 1979. With her Nebraska Real Estate Salesperson license obtained in 1984, she serves as our residential specialist, leveraging her in-depth knowledge of local markets to help clients find their dream homes.
Not only has Janine been an integral part of our team for decades, but she also has an impressive record of service in the broader real estate and auctioneer community. She has held the position of Director of the Nebraska Auctioneers Association Auxiliary and has served as both Director and President of the Hastings, Nebraska Board of Realtors.
For many years, Janine was the co-manager of the Prosser Machinery Consignment Auction, gaining valuable experience and understanding of the auction industry. As a testament to her multi-faceted skills, she has been the trusted cashier for Ruhter Auction & Realty, Inc. since 1979, ensuring seamless financial operations at our auctions.
Away from her professional responsibilities, Janine, alongside her husband Sam, are the proud parents of three daughters. This family connection underpins her dedicated approach to helping clients navigate the residential property market.
Janine’s deep experience, commitment to clients, and community engagement make her a stand-out member of our team. With her at your side, you can be confident of receiving expert guidance and personal attention as you embark on your property journey.
Janine Ruhter
Associate Broker & Cashier
Meet Mike, your dedicated real estate professional specializing in farmland, farm or construction equipment, antiques and collectibles, and business equipment. With a deep understanding of the market, Mike is equipped to guide both buyers and sellers through a successful transaction journey.
Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, Mike is available for private consultations. He is more than happy to meet with you and discuss your specific needs.
A 1978 graduate of the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, Mike holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics and Animal Science. His education, coupled with his extensive experience in both crop and animal production, as well as other Ag-related businesses, assures that he can provide well-rounded, expert advice.
Mike’s understanding of farm markets and land values is complemented by his knowledge of irrigation technology. Whether your property is best suited for an auction or a traditional listing, Mike will make sure the marketing process is tailored to reach the most interested and motivated buyers.
Mike and his wife, Kristin, are proud parents to three children and have three grandchildren. They live between Waco & Gresham on the family farm, further cementing Mike’s connection to, and knowledge of, the agricultural landscape.
At Ruhter Auction & Realty, we understand that every transaction is unique. Let Mike’s expertise and personalized approach work for you to ensure a successful buying or selling experience.
Mike Foley
Real Estate Sales Associate
Lee, a proud native of Phillipsburg, Kansas, has been calling the Hastings area home since 1968. With a wealth of experience in transportation and logistics spanning over 25 years, he brings a unique blend of skills and knowledge to the Ruhter Auction & Realty team.
Before embarking on his career in transportation and sales, Lee was deeply involved in community service. For over a quarter-century, he has been actively engaged with 4H, including a term as President of the 4H Council. His service to the community doesn’t stop there. He has also served as President of the Extension Council, and has been an 11-year Board Member of the Adams County Ag. Society Board of Directors. For seven years, he was Chairman of the Oregon Trails Rodeo Committee, and he has served as a Director of the National Invitational Truck Rodeo in Las Vegas.
Further amplifying his community engagement, Lee is a devoted member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church. His commitment to service, both within and outside of his professional life, is a testament to his dedication to the people and the community he serves.
In 2015, Lee graduated from the Worldwide College of Auctioneering in Mason City, IA. His auctioneering skills have been put to use over the past 15 years, as he has been associated with Pick’s Pack Haulers, lending his expertise in the logistics sector.
Lee and his wife, Kathy, are proud parents to two grown children and have the joy of being grandparents to three grandchildren.
Bringing together a life-long commitment to community service, an impressive professional background, and a family-centered perspective, Lee stands ready to serve your needs with unparalleled dedication and expertise. Whether you are buying, selling, or need professional auctioneering services, Lee is ready to put his skills to work for you.
Lee Hogan
Sales Associate
Jeff is a seasoned appraisal and real estate professional with over 15 years of experience in diverse property evaluation. His vast knowledge and extensive experience range from residential and commercial real estate to ag land and specialty agricultural properties.
As an independent appraiser based in Aurora, Nebraska, Jeff has completed a wide array of appraisals for various purposes including mortgage loans, special purposes, buyer-seller negotiations, and government agencies. His portfolio spans across single and multi-family dwellings, apartment complexes, acreages, office buildings, churches, hospitals, adult living centers, schools, subdivisions, and shopping centers, among others. Additionally, Jeff has a unique expertise in specialty agricultural properties like dairies, bull testing stations, and seed warehouses.
In 2019, Jeff obtained his real estate sales license from the State of Nebraska and joined our expert team at Ruhter Auction & Realty in the fall. His dual expertise in appraising and real estate sales equips him with a comprehensive perspective of the property market, making him an invaluable asset to both buyers and sellers.
Jeff currently holds the position of Vice-President of the Mid-West Appraisers Association, based in Kearney, Nebraska. His other professional affiliations include the National Association of Realtors and the Grand Island Board of Realtors.
When he isn’t helping clients or appraising properties, Jeff enjoys maintaining his small cow/calf operation, volunteering at local organizations in Aurora, and spending quality time with his family and friends.
Jeff and his wife, Michella, are proud parents to two sons, Jordan and Todd. They live just outside of Aurora, further strengthening his connection to and understanding of the local real estate market.
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or simply need an expert appraisal, Jeff is ready to put his skills and experience to work for you.
