LAKELAND, FL, December 5, 2025 – Saunders Real Estate is proud to announce that Dean Saunders, ALC, CCIM, Founder and Managing Director of the firm, has been honored as a recipient in the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) National Commercial Awards program. Saunders was recognized as National Broker of the Year in the Ag Land Sales – Ranches category.
Dean Saunders, ALC, CCIM, Founder and Managing Director at Saunders Real Estate
The National Commercial Awards represent one of NAR’s highest acknowledgments of professional achievement in commercial real estate. The program commends REALTORS® whose service, leadership, and contributions have had a meaningful impact, whether through professional associations, industry advancement, or community engagement. This honor underscores Saunders’ longstanding commitment to land brokerage and his work alongside farmers and ranchers to preserve vital working lands.
Since beginning his career in 1985, Saunders has focused on Florida land markets, conservation transactions, and large-acreage sales. Deeply rooted in agriculture, he has combined brokerage expertise with public service, including roles at the federal and state levels and service as a member of the Florida House of Representatives. His legislative work helped establish early frameworks for conservation easements and the purchase of development rights, shaping policies that continue to guide land preservation efforts throughout the state. Today, Saunders Real Estate has evolved into a multi-disciplinary land and commercial real estate brokerage.
“This recognition mirrors the collective effort of the landowners I’ve had the privilege to work with over the years and the trust they’ve placed in me,” said Saunders. “At its core, my work has always been about helping clients confidently navigate complex land decisions in a thoughtful and practical way.”
“Dean’s inclusion in NAR’s National Commercial Awards program is a testament to his decades of leadership and integrity in land brokerage,” added Tyler Davis, ALC, President of Saunders Real Estate. “His work has influenced not only the land and commercial real estate industry, but also the broader conversation around conservation and responsible land use. We are proud to see his contributions acknowledged at the national level.”
Saunders Real Estate views this award as reflective of the firm’s long-standing approach to land and commercial real estate advisory work. The firm remains focused on serving landowners and investors through experience-based guidance, disciplined analysis, and respect for the land and communities in which it operates.
About Saunders Real Estate
Saunders Real Estate is a leading land and commercial real estate brokerage serving buyers, sellers, investors, and landowners across the Southeastern United States for 30 years. With over 100 advisors and offices in major U.S. markets including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina, we specialize in large-acreage land transactions, commercial property sales and leasing, and property management.
To reflect our legacy and continued growth, Saunders Real Estate operates through two divisions – Saunders Land and Saunders Commercial. Our expertise spans agriculture, conservation, recreation, residential development, and commercial real estate, supported by specialized services such as forestry, land management, and investment acquisitions.
Today, Saunders Real Estate is recognized as a trusted authority in the region, delivering exceptional results through experienced leadership, innovative strategies, and a client-focused approach.