Itzhak Ezratti Biography, Early Life, Net Worth, and Florida 

Itzhak “Itchko” Ezratti was born in 1952 in Israel. His early years were shaped by values of resilience and discipline. Life in Israel during that time was not easy. Families worked hard to create stable lives in a new country. Ezratti grew up in this environment, which prepared him for challenges ahead.

His background also gave him an appreciation for opportunity. Israel was young as a nation, and many citizens had to be resourceful. 

Early Life

Itzhak Ezratti carried that mindset with him when he decided to leave for the United States. He wanted to explore possibilities in a country known for growth and business.

Ezratti moved to America in the early 1970s. He first settled in Washington, D.C. His first job was as a bank teller. The position was simple, but it gave him insights into finance and customer service. He learned how money moved and how people managed their resources.

Though banking was valuable, Ezratti soon realized his future was elsewhere. He was drawn to real estate and development. Housing demand was rising in many parts of the country, and Florida seemed full of opportunities. With ambition and determination, he relocated to Florida. That decision became the foundation of his success.

Personal Life and Family

Itzhak Ezratti values privacy. He is married, though his wife keeps a low profile. His son, Misha Ezratti, is more public due to his role at GL Homes. Family is central to his life. He has kept his business and personal values connected over the years.

Misha’s role as CEO shows the importance of family continuity. Ezratti’s vision for GL Homes continues through the next generation. This strengthens both the company and the family’s legacy.

Ezratti is also involved in philanthropy. He supports local causes and community programs. While many of his donations are private, he has contributed to social and cultural efforts in Florida. His focus is often on giving back to the communities where his company builds homes.

Career 

Ezratti guided GL Homes with a clear vision. He valued long-term planning, strong land positions, and consistent quality. His leadership style emphasized patience. He was not focused on quick wins but on building lasting value. This mindset helped the company grow steadily even during difficult times like housing downturns.

He also believed in empowering his team. Many employees stayed with the company for years, contributing to its stability. Ezratti’s focus on teamwork made GL Homes strong internally and respected externally.

After decades of leadership, Ezratti stepped back from day-to-day management in 2016. His son, Misha Ezratti, took over as President and CEO. Itzhak remained Chairman, ensuring continuity and guidance. This transition kept the company within the family while allowing the next generation to bring new ideas.

Under Misha’s leadership, GL Homes continued to expand. The company carried forward its reputation for building luxury communities and active adult neighborhoods. This balance of tradition and innovation reflects the foundation that Ezratti built.

Founding of GL Homes

In 1976, Ezratti co-founded GL Homes with his father-in-law, Joseph Hanin. The company’s beginnings were modest. Their first project was a duplex in Hollywood, Florida. It was a small start, but it carried a big vision. Ezratti believed homes were not just buildings. They were places where families would build lives and memories.

From the start, GL Homes focused on quality and community design. They wanted to offer more than simple housing units. They aimed to create neighborhoods that included parks, amenities, and spaces where people could gather. This philosophy guided their projects as the company grew.

Florida in the late 20th century was booming. Retirees moved there for the climate, and families came for jobs and lifestyle. GL Homes expanded steadily to meet this demand. The company acquired land and built new communities across Palm Beach, Broward, Collier, and other counties.

Ezratti’s approach was patient and strategic. He believed in holding land for the long term. This allowed GL Homes to plan carefully and release projects at the right time. Over the years, the company became one of Florida’s largest private homebuilders. Its name became associated with quality and lifestyle-focused communities.

Florida Projects and Community Impact

One of GL Homes’ specialties is active adult communities. These neighborhoods are designed for residents aged 55 and older. They include clubhouses, fitness centers, swimming pools, and social spaces. Ezratti understood that people wanted more than houses. They wanted a lifestyle with activities, friendships, and convenience.

These communities became a signature for GL Homes. Developments like Valencia neighborhoods are well-known across Florida. Thousands of retirees have chosen them for their combination of comfort and community.

GL Homes also builds family-oriented and luxury housing. These projects include spacious single-family homes with modern designs. Many of them are part of master-planned communities. Families are drawn to them for their schools, safety, and amenities.

By addressing different markets, Ezratti ensured that GL Homes remained relevant. Whether for retirees or young families, the company offered options to fit many needs. This diversity strengthened its position in Florida’s real estate market.

Ezratti’s work has had a wide impact on Florida’s economy. His projects created thousands of jobs for construction workers, designers, and service providers. The communities also added tax revenue for local governments. Beyond housing, they supported businesses like retail stores, restaurants, and service centers.

His developments shaped both urban and suburban landscapes. Many neighborhoods in Florida today exist because of GL Homes’ long-term planning. Ezratti’s influence is visible across the state.

Net Worth and Wealth

As of 2025, Itzhak Ezratti net worth is estimated at $1.9 billion. Forbes and other financial outlets report this figure. This places him among Florida’s wealthiest individuals. His fortune reflects decades of success in real estate and strategic land investments.

Most of his wealth comes from GL Homes. The company earns billions in revenue from selling homes and developing land. In 2023 alone, GL Homes generated about $1.53 billion in revenue and over $200 million in net income.

Land holdings also play a major role. GL Homes controls large tracts of land across Florida. As land values rise, these holdings increase Ezratti’s wealth. This strategy of acquiring and holding land has been one of his most effective business moves.

Ezratti’s fortune is not built on risky ventures. Instead, it is tied to steady housing demand in Florida. The state continues to attract new residents each year. This constant demand for housing ensures that GL Homes remains profitable. As a result, Ezratti’s net worth has remained strong and stable over time.

Conclusion

Itzhak Ezratti journey is one of vision, patience, and steady growth. From his early years in Israel to his move to the United States, he showed determination to succeed. His decision to focus on Florida real estate in the 1970s proved to be life-changing. His legacy is secure. He transformed small beginnings into a lasting enterprise that has touched the lives of thousands.