Dream Finders Homes Named 2025 Builder of the Year
Dream Finders Homes, Inc., recognized for its robust acquisitions and record-setting revenue, was honored with Zonda’s BUILDER’s 2025 Builder of the Year Award. This accolade affirms the company’s exceptional growth and impact within the homebuilding industry. CEO Patrick Zalupski attributes much of the recognition to the hardworking team at Dream Finders Homes, whose efforts span across various regions throughout the United States.
In a statement regarding the achievement, Zalupski emphasized that the company’s remarkable growth wouldn’t have been possible without its talented employees. “We definitely wouldn’t be accomplishing our growth plans if it were not for the great and talented folks we have that take pride in their work every day,” said Zalupski. While the award from BUILDER is greatly appreciated, Zalupski’s true excitement lies in watching the company’s employees grow and take on increasing responsibility, shaping the future of Dream Finders Homes.
Apart from its business accomplishments, Dream Finders Homes has made significant strides in philanthropic efforts. Zalupski highlighted the company’s increased charitable contributions, particularly its $2.5 million commitment to the University of Florida’s new campus in downtown Jacksonville and its matching donation to Stetson University’s Annual Giving Program. These efforts underscore Dream Finders Homes’ commitment to supporting the communities in which it operates, further enhancing its brand reputation.
Founded by Zalupski in 2008, Dream Finders Homes has quickly become one of the fastest-growing homebuilding companies in the U.S. Known for delivering industry-leading returns on shareholders’ equity, the company now operates in more than 220 communities across 10 states, including Arizona, Colorado, Texas, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Maryland. Since its inception, Dream Finders Homes has closed more than 38,000 homes.
“The Builder of the Year Award is a highly anticipated honor that highlights the top builders in the country,” said Steve Ladurantaye, editor-in-chief of BUILDER. “As we evaluated all the candidates for 2025, Dream Finders consistently emerged at the top. We congratulate them on their success and look forward to what the future holds.”
The 2025 Builder of the Year Award will be formally presented at the 37th Annual Builder 100 Leadership Summit in Dana Point, California, taking place from May 5–7, 2025. Dream Finders Homes is set to be celebrated for its excellence and contributions to the homebuilding industry.
Headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, Dream Finders Homes is a publicly traded company that has seen significant growth in recent years. In 2024, the company reached new records, including 8,583 closings, a pre-tax income of $438 million, and homebuilding revenues of $4.4 billion—a notable 18% increase compared to 2023. Additionally, by the end of 2024, Dream Finders Homes had secured control over nearly 55,000 lots in its land pipeline.
Key Milestones and Strategic Expansion
Dream Finders Homes’ impressive growth has been fueled by a series of strategic expansions and acquisitions. Some of the company’s key milestones in the last year include:
- New Market Entries: In late 2023, Dream Finders Homes entered the Tampa, Florida market and the Phoenix, Arizona market in early 2024. The company also expanded its footprint along Florida’s southeast coast and into Southwest Florida, enhancing its presence in high-demand coastal regions.
- Acquisitions: The company made a significant acquisition in 2024 with the purchase of Crescent Homes, expanding its reach into the Charleston and Greenville, South Carolina markets, as well as Nashville, Tennessee. Additionally, Dream Finders Homes acquired the remaining 40% equity interest in its mortgage joint venture, Jet HomeLoans, in 2024. The company also completed the acquisition of Cherry Creek Mortgage, LLC, strengthening its mortgage offerings.
- Expansion into Atlanta and Greenville: Dream Finders Homes is set to enter the Atlanta, Georgia market in 2025 and expand further in Greenville, South Carolina, with the acquisition of Liberty Communities.
- Net New Orders: Dream Finders Homes reported an impressive 1,611 net new orders in the fourth quarter of 2024, reflecting a 46% increase compared to the 1,106 net new orders from the same period in 2023.
Growth Strategy and Model
Dream Finders Homes has achieved its rapid growth by employing an ‘industry-leading land-light model’ combined with a capital-efficient strategy. This approach allows the company to prioritize land purchases close to community start dates, enabling Dream Finders Homes to react quickly to market shifts while minimizing financial risk. The strategy has proven effective in adapting to fluctuating market conditions and in achieving consistent growth year after year.
“It’s not easy to deliver growth year after year, and we have grown our business consistently every year for 16 years in a row,” said Zalupski. “We have set the foundation for a 17th year of growth in 2025.”
Looking to the future, Dream Finders Homes is poised for continued success. The company’s robust acquisitions strategy, combined with its strategic market expansions and industry-leading land-light approach, ensures that Dream Finders Homes will remain at the forefront of the homebuilding industry in the years to come.
Building on its foundation of financial strength, strategic acquisitions, and a strong focus on employee development, Dream Finders Homes is committed to maintaining its momentum and driving future growth. Zalupski’s vision for the company extends beyond just business success; it includes continuing to deliver value to its shareholders, employees, and the communities it serves.
With an impressive portfolio of completed projects, ongoing initiatives in sustainability and philanthropy, and a highly talented workforce, Dream Finders Homes is undoubtedly positioned for even greater accomplishments in the years ahead. As the company continues its expansion into new markets and executes its strategic growth plans, it will remain a key player in the U.S. homebuilding industry for years to come.
Dream Finders Homes’ consistent recognition and award-winning performance demonstrate its leadership in the industry, and its ability to adapt to market demands while providing value to customers and shareholders alike is a testament to the company’s long-term vision and commitment to excellence.
