The Real Deal announced on Apr. 3 its Top 100 in South Florida, a list that features the developers, financiers, and brokers who have shaped the region’s transformation from a resort destination to a global financial center.
This ranking highlights the impact of industry leaders such as Jorge M. Pérez of Related Group, Gil Dezer of Dezer Development, Stephen Ross of Related Companies, Ken Griffin of Citadel and Citadel Securities, and leading residential agents Jill Hertzberg, Jill Eber, and Judy Zeder. Their work has influenced both Miami’s skyline and broader trends in South Florida real estate.
Pérez is described as “Miami’s condo king” for his decades-long role in driving Miami’s condominium boom through projects like Icon Brickell and SLS Lux. He founded Related Group in 1979 with Steve Ross and is now preparing his sons Jon Paul and Nicholas to eventually lead the company. In Sunny Isles Beach, Dezer has made a mark by developing luxury skyscrapers branded with high-end auto names such as Porsche Design Tower—a project that merged his interests in cars and real estate.
Stephen Ross is noted for transforming downtown West Palm Beach into what some call “Wall Street South,” with eight office buildings and about 1,500 residential units either completed or planned. His influence extends beyond development; he also owns the Miami Dolphins football team.
Ken Griffin relocated Citadel’s headquarters from Chicago to Miami after the pandemic and has spent over $1 billion acquiring land across South Florida. His actions have attracted other financial firms to move into the area but have also drawn criticism for contributing to rising costs for local residents.
In residential brokerage, The Jills Zeder Group—formed when longtime agents Jill Hertzberg and Jill Eber merged teams with Judy Zeder—holds the top spot in Miami-Dade County according to The Real Deal’s rankings. The group is known for brokering significant deals across high-profile neighborhoods including Miami Beach and Fisher Island.
The full Top 100 list provides further details on other influential figures shaping this cycle in South Florida real estate.
