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Billionaire Profile
Patrick Zalupski
Global Rank
#2856

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Patrick Zalupski

CEO, Dream Finders Homes
US
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.2B
As of December 2025
Age
45
Source
homebuilding
Industry
real-estate
Citizenship
US

Biography

Patrick Zalupski is an American real estate developer, best known as the founder, chairman, and CEO of Dream Finders Homes. Born in 1980, Zalupski's career began after graduating with a finance degree from Stetson University. After a brief stint at FedEx, he shifted his focus to homebuilding, a field in which he found rapid success. Dream Finders Homes, founded in 2008, went public in January 2021 and has become a prominent player in the industry. As of 2024, Zalupski's net worth is estimated at $1.2 billion, primarily stemming from his success in homebuilding and his significant shareholding in Dream Finders Homes. Beyond his business endeavors, Zalupski is also known for his leadership as the principal shareholder of the Tampa Bay Rays of Major League Baseball and serves on the University of Florida Board of Trustees.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Patrick Zalupski was born in suburban Detroit in 1980. His family moved frequently during his childhood, including a period in Belgium where he attended high school. His father worked for General Electric. Zalupski graduated from Stetson University with a degree in finance.

Rise to Success

After graduating, Zalupski worked at FedEx in internal audits for 18 months. He then moved to Jacksonville, Florida, and became involved in the real estate business, helping his mother, a realtor. He began flipping houses in 2004 and gained experience in construction. Zalupski co-founded Dream Finders Homes in 2008, at the height of the Great Recession. The company focused on entry-level and move-up buyers. In 2021, Dream Finders Homes went public. Zalupski has built Dream Finders into a large company and is the principal shareholder of the ownership group for the Tampa Bay Rays.

Key Business Strategies

Dream Finders Homes focuses on building customizable homes and has expanded its operations across multiple states. The company initially targeted entry-level buyers. Zalupski's strategy involves acquiring land strategically to manage risk, enabling quick inventory turnover. The company has maintained a strong return on equity, exceeding many competitors. Dream Finders has seen significant growth in revenue and closings over the years.

Philanthropy

Dream Finders Homes has committed $2.5 million to support the University of Florida's new downtown Jacksonville campus.

Career Milestones

2004

Began Flipping Houses

Patrick Zalupski started flipping properties, gaining early experience in real estate.

2008

Co-founded Dream Finders Homes

Launched Dream Finders Homes, focusing on entry-level and move-up buyers.

2021

Dream Finders Homes IPO

Dream Finders Homes went public on the New York Stock Exchange.

2023

Appointed to University of Florida Board

Zalupski was appointed to the University of Florida Board of Trustees.

2025

Purchased Tampa Bay Rays

Zalupski led a group to purchase the Tampa Bay Rays.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

University of Florida Jacksonville Campus

$2.5M

Dream Finders Homes pledged $2.5 million to support the development of a new downtown Jacksonville campus.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"My mindset is: 'What do we do tomorrow?'"

Leadership Principles

Asset-Light Model

Dream Finders Homes uses an asset-light model, acquiring land strategically to minimize risk and maximize returns.

Focus on Growth

Zalupski is dedicated to growing his business through both organic initiatives and acquisitions.