When most people think of a leader, they picture someone who inspires, builds trust, and guides others toward success. For GL Homes President Misha Ezratti, leadership is about more than business achievements. It extends into the Florida communities where he, his employees, and GL Homes’ homebuyers live and work.
Misha Ezratti’s community leadership in Florida real estate has long been rooted in philanthropy. He believes true leaders should “pay it forward,” a principle that serves as the foundation of GL Homes Philanthropy, the company’s mission to create a more compassionate and supportive Florida.
The saying “it takes a village” resonates strongly with Misha. He believes communities play a vital role in teaching, inspiring, and shaping leaders. In return, he says leaders must give back to the people who help make their success possible while also supporting the next generation of leadership.
Under his direction, GL Homes has grown into one of Florida’s leading luxury homebuilders, delivering homes to more than 100,000 families across the state.
What sets Misha apart, however, is his reputation as a compassionate leader and philanthropist whose vision for community building continues to guide both his work and the company’s mission.
Misha Ezratti: Leading by Example
Guided by the principles of his father, GL Homes Founder Itzhak Ezratti, Misha places a strong emphasis on integrity, visibility, and respect. He has shaped GL Homes into a homebuilder that does more than create neighborhoods. The company strengthens communities by practicing responsible development and investing in the lives of the people who live there.
Misha Ezratti is deeply committed to philanthropic initiatives and hands-on volunteerism. He believes that true leadership means being actively involved in both business and community, setting an example for others in Florida’s real estate sector.
By fostering a culture of community within GL Homes and the neighborhoods it builds, Misha demonstrates that leadership is measured not only by business success but also by the positive impact on people and communities.
GL Homes: Smart Planning for Stronger Communities
Misha Ezratti’s leadership extends to GL Homes’ smart planning initiatives, which combines innovative design, environmental stewardship, and community well-being. Each project begins with a careful study of a site’s history, geography, and environment to ensure thoughtful, responsible development.
Over its 50-year history, GL Homes has built many master-planned communities that balance the needs of homebuyers with the environment.
These developments showcase examples of responsible development through practices such as preserving wildlife habitats, managing stormwater, conserving water, incorporating pedestrian-friendly greenways, littoral planting systems, or landscaped buffers whenever possible.
Beyond construction, GL Homes has contributed to the broader community by donating land for schools, parks, libraries, fire and police stations, and civic centers.
Earlier this year, the Canyon Branch Library in Boynton Beach opened on land donated by GL Homes, exemplifying the company’s commitment to public service.
Wellness is also a central element of GL Homes smart planning. GL Homes neighborhoods feature outdoor spaces, fitness facilities, social clubs, and community events, creating opportunities for residents to connect and lead healthier, more engaged lives.
Misha believes that designing spaces that foster wellness strengthens communities and enriches the lives of those who call them home.
GL Homes Philanthropy Across Florida
Through GL Homes Philanthropy, Misha Ezratti has prioritized efforts that meet people where they are, focusing on everyday needs that make a direct and lasting difference. He has made it a point to lead by example, engaging in hands-on volunteer work that supports the most vulnerable members of Florida’s communities.
His philanthropic vision centers on breaking the cycle of homelessness, combating hunger, and supporting children and education, with programs designed to create tangible, meaningful impact.
One of GL Homes’ hallmark initiatives is Make a House a Home, which turns surplus building materials, appliances, and furnishings into support for low-income families.
After completing a development, GL Homes has everything from lightly used furniture to excess construction materials. Instead of discarding these items, GL Homes works to get them to families who need them most, partnering with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity ReStore and Gulfstream Goodwill Industries to furnish homes for those transitioning from homelessness to independent living.
Misha’s housing-focused volunteerism also includes the GL Homes Good Night’s Sleep program, inspired by the simple belief that everyone deserves a comfortable place to rest.
Through this initiative, GL Homes provides essentials like beds, blankets, and even laundry detergent to individuals and families moving into permanent housing.
Additionally, GL Homes has expanded its efforts to fight hunger, working with Feeding South Florida, The Lord’s Place Meal Mobile, and other local nonprofits to provide thousands of meals to families and seniors across the state.
The company has also been a steadfast partner of the Senator Philip D. Lewis Center in West Palm Beach, which provides essential services to help community members get back on their feet. Recently, Misha Ezratti and his wife Jessica Ezratti joined volunteers at Feeding South Florida in Boynton Beach, preparing meals for homebound seniors.
Children remain central to Misha’s vision for Florida’s future. Through the Passion for Playgrounds initiative, GL Homes partners with organizations such as the Boys and Girls Clubs to design and build safe, vibrant playgrounds across the state.
These spaces provide children with the opportunity to play and connect while fostering a sense of community among neighbors.
Misha Ezratti: A Leader’s Legacy
Between his commitment to smart planning, active involvement in philanthropy, and belief that leadership is measured by service to others, Misha Ezratti has positioned GL Homes as more than a homebuilder.
Under his leadership, the company continues to strengthen Florida’s communities while proving that true leadership is defined by the positive impact left behind.
