Saunders Real Estate Rebrands as Independent Brokerage, Stepping Into New Chapter of Growth
After six years, Saunders Real Estate has transitioned away from the SVN (Shared Value Network) franchise. They are returning to their roots and will operate as an independent brokerage in an expanding area in the Southeast.
Former Florida legislator Dean Saunders founded the firm nearly 30 years ago. It focuses on large-acreage land and commercial real estate. Saunders, along with Gary Ralston, Todd Dantzler and their team of more than 100 advisors, are now in a position to expand their services. They “support clients in their efforts to maximize their land investments and make strategic real estate decisions,” according to a press release. They have offices in Florida, Georgia, Alabama and Arkansas.
“Saunders Real Estate is not just experts in land transactions and commercial real estate. We are deeply connected to the markets we serve,” said Saunders, Managing Director of the brokerage firm. “We provide our clients with unparalleled service and guidance. Our independent status gives us the flexibility to continue growing. We can enhance our services and bring more value to our clients in the Southeast U.S.”
The firm separated from SVN because it outgrew the franchise model, Saunders said. The change is a strategic move.
“By leaving the SVN franchise, we’ve become an independent brokerage with the freedom to expand our markets and services without limitations,” he said. “We’re remaining focused on large-acreage land and commercial real estate across Florida and the Southeast. This shift gives us greater flexibility to grow.”
Saunders Real Estate Accolades
The full-service land and commercial real estate brokerage that represents buyers, sellers, investors, institutions and landowners has brokered more than $4B. In 2024, Saunders said:
- The largest sale in acres was a 5,500-acre grove sold to Florida Power & Light Co.
- The largest sale in dollars was the Bronson tract on the south side of Lake Tohopekaliga at $110M.
Saunders has been recognized twice with the top award given by the Realtors Land Institute – the APEX Top National Producer. The award is given to the applicant with the highest overall qualifying transaction volume.
Expansion
Saunders said the firm looks forward to continuing to strengthen its presence in the Southeast. And, they are eager to move into new markets.
“Our strategic expansion into Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia and North Carolina positions us to capitalize on opportunities in both land and commercial real estate markets,” he said. “Our deep expertise in Florida’s land and commercial real estate dynamics provided us with the leverage to address the rising demand across these southeastern states. Each market we’ve expanded to presents distinct advantages.”
Conservation
Since his days in the Legislature, Saunders – an eighth-generation Floridian – has been involved in land conservation.
“Conservation is at the heart of Saunders Real Estate’s mission because we believe that land preservation benefits not only landowners but also the community and future generations,” he said. “We have deep expertise in helping landowners navigate conservation easements, allowing them to protect their property while receiving fair compensation. This commitment to conservation ensures that the land remains viable for future agricultural use, recreation or wildlife habitat, making it a valuable resource for both our clients and Florida’s residents.”
When he was in the Legislature in the 1990s, he introduced “the legislation that established the Green Swamp Land Authority. It was Florida’s first state entity to purchase development rights from landowners,” Saunders said. “This effort helped pave the way for conservation easements, which are now a key tool for land preservation. By working closely with landowners to navigate these opportunities, my team and I remain committed to preserving land while ensuring it retains its value.”
Taking Care of Clients
Among other things, the firm annually produces the “Lay of the Land” report. This report helps clients understand real-estate valuation and trends, and where the market is going.
“Our firm’s core value is to deliver tailored, strategic real estate solutions that maximize the value of land and commercial properties for our clients,” Saunders said. “In addition to our expansion and conservation efforts, we remain committed to providing exceptional client service. We stay ahead of market trends, and host key industry events like our Lay of the Land Conference and I-4 Corridor Commercial Conference. These initiatives help our clients stay informed and empowered to make smart, strategic decisions.”
