Itzhak Ezratti is a self-made billionaire and one of the most influential figures in Florida’s real estate landscape. As the founder and chairman of GL Homes, Ezratti has spent decades building not just homes—but entire communities—across the state. His journey from co-founding a family business to becoming a billionaire entrepreneur is a true embodiment of the American Dream.
As of 2025, Itzhak Ezratti’s net worth is estimated at $1.9 billion, according to Forbes. His wealth is largely tied to the massive success of GL Homes, a privately held company that has delivered over 36,000 homes since its inception.
This article explores Itzhak Ezratti’s rise to wealth, his business achievements, and how he became one of the most powerful real estate moguls in Florida.
Who Is Itzhak Ezratti?
Itzhak Ezratti is an American real estate developer and the founder of GL Homes, one of the largest privately owned home-building companies in Florida. Though he keeps a relatively low public profile, his influence in the Florida housing market is undeniable.
He co-founded the company in 1976 with his father-in-law, Joseph Hanin, and transformed it from a small family business into a billion-dollar enterprise known for building luxury residential communities.
The Origins of GL Homes
GL Homes was born during a pivotal time in the U.S. housing market. Founded in South Florida, the company initially focused on affordable housing but gradually shifted its focus toward upscale, planned communities.
Over the decades, the company developed a solid reputation for:
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Quality craftsmanship
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Resort-style amenities
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Gated communities with security
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High-end finishes and custom home options
GL Homes has focused primarily on areas with strong economic and demographic growth, including Palm Beach, Broward, Collier, and Lee Counties.
Key Milestones
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1976: Company founded in Florida
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1990s–2000s: Expansion into luxury communities
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2010s: GL Homes becomes one of the top 10 builders in Florida
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2020s: GL Homes ranks as one of the top 30 home builders in the U.S. by revenue
How Itzhak Ezratti Built His Net Worth
As chairman of GL Homes, Itzhak Ezratti holds significant ownership in the company, which is privately held. With over 36,000 homes completed and an emphasis on luxury development, the company’s profit margins are substantial.
Ezratti’s estimated $1.9 billion net worth comes from a combination of:
1. Real Estate Development
Each residential community developed by GL Homes can include hundreds to thousands of homes. These projects are often high-end gated communities with extensive infrastructure, amenities, and custom features—allowing for premium pricing and substantial returns.
2. Privately Held Company
Unlike many of his peers, Ezratti has kept GL Homes private, allowing him to retain greater control and a larger share of the profits. This decision has likely helped him quietly amass his fortune outside of the stock market spotlight.
3. Land Holdings
GL Homes owns substantial parcels of land across Florida, which have appreciated in value over the years. These assets form a strong foundation of Ezratti’s wealth.
4. Strategic Growth
The company’s ability to weather economic downturns, including the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, is a testament to Ezratti’s conservative but strategic approach to growth.
A Focus on Florida’s Housing Market
Ezratti and GL Homes have maintained a Florida-first focus, which has paid off immensely. Florida continues to be one of the fastest-growing states in the U.S. due to its favorable tax laws, warm climate, and influx of retirees and remote workers.
By concentrating on active adult communities, luxury homes, and desirable suburbs, Ezratti positioned his business to serve high-demand markets with strong demographic trends.
Some of GL Homes’ well-known communities include:
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Valencia Sound (Boynton Beach)
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Valencia Grand (West Delray)
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Boca Bridges (Boca Raton)
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Lotus Palm (Boca Raton)
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Canyon Series (Boynton Beach)
Leadership and Legacy
Itzhak Ezratti remains actively involved in GL Homes’ leadership, though the company has begun passing more responsibilities to a new generation of executives. His son, Misha Ezratti, is now the company president, signaling a generational transition of leadership and vision.
Despite stepping back from day-to-day operations, Ezratti’s influence and founding philosophy continue to shape the company’s direction.
Philanthropy and Private Life
While not as publicly philanthropic as some billionaires, Ezratti and GL Homes have participated in charitable giving and community support initiatives. These often involve education, housing assistance, and community development, particularly in Florida.
He maintains a low public profile, with few media appearances or personal interviews. Most of what’s known about his lifestyle is inferred from his net worth and real estate assets.
Net Worth Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Itzhak Ezratti |
| Profession | Real Estate Developer |
| Company | GL Homes |
| Founded | 1976, Florida |
| Estimated Net Worth | $1.9 billion (as of 2025) |
| Key Markets | Florida (Palm Beach, Broward) |
| Notable Projects | Valencia, Canyon, Lotus series |
| Company Type | Privately Held |
FAQs About Itzhak Ezratti
Who is Itzhak Ezratti?
Itzhak Ezratti is the billionaire founder and chairman of GL Homes, one of the largest private home builders in Florida.
How much is Itzhak Ezratti worth?
According to Forbes, Ezratti’s net worth is estimated at $1.9 billion in 2025.
What is GL Homes known for?
GL Homes is known for building luxury residential communities in Florida, particularly in high-demand regions like Palm Beach, Boca Raton, and Naples.
Is GL Homes a public company?
No, GL Homes is privately owned, allowing the Ezratti family to retain majority control and profits.
What types of homes does GL Homes build?
They specialize in luxury gated communities, 55+ active adult communities, and custom family homes with premium amenities.
Who is Misha Ezratti?
Misha Ezratti is Itzhak Ezratti’s son and currently serves as the president of GL Homes. He is gradually taking over operational leadership.
Where does Itzhak Ezratti live?
Though specific details are private, Ezratti resides in Florida, close to many of GL Homes’ developments.
Is Itzhak Ezratti involved in philanthropy?
While not heavily publicized, Ezratti and GL Homes participate in community support initiatives, especially in Florida.
Final Thoughts
Itzhak Ezratti’s rise from co-founding a small real estate venture to becoming a billionaire developer is a powerful story of vision, strategy, and long-term growth. With a net worth of $1.9 billion, Ezratti has made his mark on Florida’s real estate sector—and beyond.
His legacy lives not only in his massive fortune but also in the thriving communities he’s helped build across the Sunshine State.
