Early Life
Itzhak Ezratti was born in Israel. In 1974, he immigrated to the United States and began his career as a bank teller in Washington, D.C. He later moved to Florida, drawn by the opportunities and warmer climate.
Rise to Success
In 1976, Ezratti co-founded GL Homes with Joseph Hanin. Their first project was a duplex in Hollywood, Florida. GL Homes gained momentum after Hurricane Andrew in 1992, selling approximately 1,000 homes in the following years. Ezratti focused on developing high-quality homes and master-planned communities. He stepped down as president in 2016 but remains chairman.
Key Business Strategies
GL Homes' success stems from several key strategies. These include strategic land acquisition, a focus on luxury and 55+ communities, and the development of master-planned communities with resort-style amenities. The company has built over 36,000 homes and continues to expand its footprint across Florida. Ezratti's leadership also emphasized quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction, building trust with every buyer.
Philanthropy
Itzhak Ezratti and GL Homes are actively involved in philanthropy, supporting healthcare, education, and initiatives to combat homelessness. Notably, they have partnered with Feeding South Florida and Habitat for Humanity to address hunger and housing instability, reflecting their belief in community-centered living.