LAKELAND, FL, October 30, 2026 – Dean Saunders, ALC, CCIM, Founder and Managing Partner of Saunders Real Estate, has been named to Florida Trend's 2026 Florida 500, marking his eighth selection to the annual list recognizing influential executives and business leaders shaping Florida's economy.
Dean Saunders, ALC, CCIM, Founder and Managing Partner of Saunders Real Estate
An eighth-generation Floridian, Saunders has spent more than four decades working at the intersection of real estate, agriculture, land conservation and private property rights. His career has combined leadership in Florida's land and commercial real estate industry with public service and advocacy for policies that balance economic growth, responsible land use and the preservation of natural resources.
In 1996, Saunders founded Saunders Real Estate in Lakeland, Florida, building what began as a land brokerage into a firm with more than 125 advisors serving landowners, investors, developers and institutions across the Southeast and Midwest. In 2025, the firm generated more than $1 billion in real estate transaction volume, reflecting its continued growth and expertise across agricultural land, timberland, ranches, development properties and commercial real estate.
“I'm honored to be included in the Florida 500 alongside some of the state's most influential business leaders,” said Dean Saunders, Founder of Saunders Real Estate. “Having spent much of my career serving Florida, both in the Legislature and through the real estate industry, I've always valued the opportunity to make a difference in the state I've called home for generations. I'm proud of what we've built at Saunders Real Estate and grateful to the people who have been part of that journey.”
Beyond his leadership in the real estate industry, Saunders has played a role in shaping Florida's approach to land conservation and private property rights. During his tenure in the Florida House of Representatives, he helped establish the Green Swamp Land Authority, advancing a voluntary approach to conservation that allowed landowners to sell development rights while retaining ownership of their property. He also contributed to efforts supporting the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program.
Throughout his career, Saunders has advocated for conservation strategies that recognize both the economic value of land and the importance of protecting Florida's natural landscapes. That philosophy continues to inform his work with landowners, investors and institutions navigating the opportunities and complexities of land ownership, development and conservation.
The recognition comes as Saunders Real Estate celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2026, marking three decades of growth from a Florida-based land brokerage into a land and commercial real estate firm serving clients across multiple states. Today, the firm provides specialized expertise in land sales and acquisitions, commercial real estate brokerage, auctions, land management and property valuations.
Florida Trend's Florida 500 recognizes 500 influential executives and business leaders across more than 60 industries. Honorees are selected through an extensive editorial research process examining their leadership, professional accomplishments and contributions to Florida's business community.
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.