Tilak Sharma
Introduction
Florida’s landscape is constantly evolving — new neighborhoods, new skylines, new possibilities. But behind the state’s rapid growth, there’s an awareness that progress must be thoughtful, sustainable and people-focused.
Few have embodied that balance more clearly than Itzhak Ezratti, founder and chairman of GL Homes.
For more than four decades, Itzhak Ezratti’s leadership has shaped Florida’s home-building industry through philosophy rooted in purpose. Under his guidance, GL Homes has become a symbol of integrity and innovation, creating communities that reflect not just architectural excellence but a deep respect for land, lifestyle and longevity.
Itzhak’s influence extends beyond construction. Through GL Homes Philanthropy, he has led causes that strengthen the fabric of Florida life, including housing, hunger relief, education and environmental preservation.
His vision is a modern model of smart planning, where business growth and community good go hand in hand.
Itzhak Ezratti’s visionary leadership: Building with integrity
From the beginning, Itzhak Ezratti’s leadership has been defined by a simple but powerful belief: Do the right thing, and success will follow. When he founded GL Homes, he looked beyond building beautiful homes, aiming to create communities grounded in trust, quality and long-term value.
That philosophy has made GL Homes one of Florida’s most respected home builders and a model of integrity in the industry. Ezratti’s approach to Florida home-building leadership emphasizes listening to homebuyers, empowering employees and treating every project as a lasting investment in people and place.
Through decades of growth, his commitment has remained constant: Progress should always serve a purpose. That principle — rooted in transparency, accountability and care — continues to guide Itzhak Ezratti’s legacy, shaping how GL Homes builds, leads, and gives back to the state it proudly calls home.
GL Homes smart planning: The foundation of responsible development
When GL Homes approaches a new community, responsible development is a large part of the decision-making process. The company’s smart planning methodology begins long before the first home is built, with deep analyses of topography, hydrology, soil conditions and existing vegetation to determine how to best integrate construction into the natural environment.
One of the most visible expressions of this philosophy is in responsible land use. Whenever possible, GL Homes preserves mature trees, relocating or repurposing them and carving out green corridors to maintain ecological continuity.
The company also designs its communities with connectivity, open spaces and long-term livability in mind. For instance, walking paths, shaded greenways and thoughtful integration of residential areas with shared amenities reduce reliance on vehicle travel.
The “sustainability in action” component of the GL Homes smart planning initiative includes native landscaping, hydrozoning, smart irrigation and littoral buffers around water features to enhance water quality and biodiversity.
In the GL Homes Riverland community, for example, more than five miles of interconnected greenways and preserved habitat areas showcase how GL Homes balances growth and environmental stewardship.
Through these practices, GL Homes demonstrates that it’s possible to pursue community development in Florida while honoring the land.
GL Homes Philanthropy as a blueprint for progress
For Itzhak Ezratti, progress has always meant more than just building homes; it has meant improving the lives of the people who live in those homes. His belief in service has helped shape GL Homes Philanthropy, guiding the company toward causes that strengthen Florida communities and create meaningful, long-term impact.
Through partnerships with trusted local organizations, GL Homes supports initiatives in affordable housing, hunger relief, education and community wellness. These efforts reflect a consistent commitment to helping individuals and families thrive.
Programs such as The Lord’s Place Meal Mobile, which provides food and outreach to those facing homelessness, exemplify how GL Homes pairs resources with compassion to address real community needs.
Recognized among Florida’s leaders in philanthropy, GL Homes continues to view giving as an essential part of responsible growth. Its story illustrates that genuine community impact comes from not only developing land and residential areas but investing in the people around them.
Itzhak Ezratti passes the torch to his son, Misha Ezratti
Every great legacy depends on those who continue it. Today, Misha Ezratti, president of GL Homes, carries forward the vision established by his father, Itzhak — a vision centered on leadership, responsibility and lasting community impact.
Under Misha’s direction, community development by GL Homes continues to reflect the same thoughtful approach that has guided the company for decades. With careful land planning and meaningful philanthropic partnerships, the focus remains on building communities that balance progress with purpose.
This seamless transition of leadership underscores the strength of Itzhak Ezratti’s legacy. The same principles that shaped the company’s foundation — integrity, innovation and service — remain at the heart of its mission today. Through both generations, Itzhak Ezratti’s leadership endures in every neighborhood that GL Homes builds and every initiative it supports.
Conclusion
From the foundation laid by Itzhak Ezratti to the continued vision of Misha Ezratti, GL Homes stands as a reflection of leadership grounded in purpose. Together, the Ezrattis’ commitment to smart planning initiatives and meaningful philanthropy has helped shape Florida’s growth in a way that honors both people and place.
Through thoughtful planning, genuine giving and enduring values, the Ezratti family has shown that true progress is more than construction; it’s the lasting connection between leadership, community and care.
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