Top 10 Real Estate Development Companies (2025)

1. Related Companies

• Founded: 1972
• Headquarters: New York City, NY, USA
• Why They’re Top-Tier: Related Companies is recognized for its massive and iconic developments such as the Hudson Yards project in NYC — the largest private real estate development in U.S. history. They focus on urban regeneration and luxury residential, retail, and commercial developments.
• Notable Projects: Hudson Yards (NYC), The Grand (Los Angeles), and Rosemary Square (West Palm Beach, FL).

2. Brookfield Properties

• Founded: 1924
• Headquarters: New York City, NY, USA
• Why They’re Top-Tier: One of the largest global real estate developers and operators, Brookfield has an incredible portfolio of mixed-use spaces, malls, residential units, office buildings, and more across North America, Europe, and Asia. Their focus on sustainability and urban innovation makes them a leader in the industry.
• Notable Projects: Manhattan West (NYC), Canary Wharf (London), and Bay Adelaide Centre (Toronto).

3. Hines

• Founded: 1957
• Headquarters: Houston, TX, USA
• Why They’re Top-Tier: Hines has a reputation for blending world-class architecture with sustainable building practices. Their projects range from office towers to luxury residential buildings, executed across dozens of countries. They’re highly respected for their partnerships with big-name architects like Frank Gehry.
• Notable Projects: Salesforce Tower (San Francisco), One Horizon Center (India), and Circular Quay Tower (Sydney, Australia).

4. Tishman Speyer

• Founded: 1978
• Headquarters: New York City, NY, USA
• Why They’re Top-Tier: Tishman Speyer specializes in premium office spaces, residential developments, and mixed-use properties in major cities worldwide. They are known for their ability to create vibrant communities within their projects and have deep expertise in revamping urban landscapes.
• Notable Projects: Rockefeller Center (NYC), The Springs (Shanghai, China), and Mission Rock (San Francisco).

5. Lendlease

• Founded: 1958
• Headquarters: Sydney, Australia
• Why They’re Top-Tier: A global leader in sustainable development, Lendlease consistently delivers large-scale, mixed-use developments and master-planned communities. Their commitment to creating sustainable urban environments has made them a go-to developer for complex megaprojects.
• Notable Projects: Barangaroo (Sydney, Australia), Elephant Park (London), and 1 Hotel South Beach (Miami).

6. Skanska

• Founded: 1887
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Sweden
• Why They’re Top-Tier: Skanska is one of the world’s largest real estate and construction companies, focusing on infrastructure, office developments, and sustainable housing. They often combine their development expertise with their construction arms to ensure high-quality execution.
• Notable Projects: The Gherkin (London), MetLife Stadium (New Jersey), and Capitol Tower (Houston).

7. Dubai Holding (Dubai Properties)

• Founded: 2004
• Headquarters: Dubai, UAE
• Why They’re Top-Tier: Dubai Properties is known for redefining the international skyline, particularly in the Middle East. They focus on luxury residential and commercial projects, as well as tourism-related developments that have put Dubai on the map as a real estate powerhouse.
• Notable Projects: Business Bay (Dubai), Jumeirah Beach Residence (Dubai), and Dubai Mall (in collaboration with Emaar).

8. Emaar Properties

• Founded: 1997
• Headquarters: Dubai, UAE
• Why They’re Top-Tier: Emaar Properties is synonymous with luxury and innovation, being the force behind some of the world’s tallest and most iconic buildings. They specialize in large-scale master-planned communities, skyscrapers, and luxury developments.
• Notable Projects: Burj Khalifa (world’s tallest building, Dubai), Dubai Marina, and The Dubai Mall.

9. Prologis

• Founded: 1983
• Headquarters: San Francisco, CA, USA
• Why They’re Top-Tier: Prologis is the global leader in industrial real estate, focusing on logistics, warehousing, and e-commerce properties. Their developments are strategic, often near major transport hubs or ports.
• Notable Projects: Prologis Park Tacoma (Seattle), Prologis Logistics Park (Brazil), and major industrial parks across Europe and Asia.

10. China Vanke

• Founded: 1984
• Headquarters: Shenzhen, China
• Why They’re Top-Tier: As one of the largest residential real estate developers in China, Vanke has expanded its focus to include commercial developments and eco-friendly communities, catering to the growing demand for sustainable urbanization.
• Notable Projects: Centreville (Shanghai), Vanke Future City (Beijing), and residential projects in Hong Kong.

Honorable Mentions:

• Boston Properties (USA): Specializing in Class-A office spaces.
• CARLYLE Group (USA): They focus on high-value mixed-use projects globally.
• Sim Lian Group (Singapore): Strong in Southeast Asia for residential builds.

These companies have set standards in real estate development worldwide, with portfolios showcasing breathtaking buildings, innovative urban communities, and sustainable practices. Whether it’s office skyscrapers, residential innovations, or large-scale mixed-use developments, these firms are shaping the future of real estate development across the globe.