JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Southern Impression Homes, a leading North American build-to-rent (BTR) development and construction firm, has announced the launch of seven new Florida communities, further strengthening its presence in one of the nation’s most competitive rental housing markets. The projects, now under construction, are located across several high-growth metros and represent a mix of delivery models tailored to investor and developer needs.

The new developments include:

  • The Eleanor – Daytona (266 units)
  • Oak Isle – Gainesville (120 units)
  • 12 Oaks – Orlando (166 units)
  • Hamilton Oaks – Tampa (224 units)
  • Silver River Landing – Ocala (204 units)
  • Canvas – Wildwood (226 units)
  • Gentle Woods – Jacksonville (108 units)

The Ocala and Jacksonville communities will be delivered through Southern Impression Homes’ merchant build program, while the Daytona, Gainesville, Orlando, Tampa, and Wildwood projects are being completed under the company’s full-service general contracting platform. In Orlando and Tampa, the firm has also committed co-investment capital alongside its clients, underscoring a partnership-driven approach to development.

Flexible Delivery Models Drive Growth

Courtesy: Photo by Southern Impression Homes

Beyond Florida, Southern Impression Homes continues to expand its footprint with additional BTR projects underway in Georgia, North Carolina, and Texas. Company leaders say the ability to operate as builder, contractor, and capital partner allows the firm to adapt to shifting market conditions that have complicated financing and delivery for many developers.

“The creativity and flexibility we bring to the table is unmatched,” says Chris Funk, President and CEO of Southern Impression Homes. “We aren’t just another homebuilder or general contractor, we’re a true partner to our clients. Beyond building projects, we often invest equity alongside our clients, aligning our interests with theirs. In today’s challenging market, every deal is different, and success requires adaptability, shared risk, and a clear understanding of our clients’ goals. That’s the real service we provide.”

Backed by Global Scale and Capital Strength

Southern Impression Homes employs a 140-person team with experience spanning structured finance, land entitlement, horizontal development, vertical construction, and long-term asset management. The company’s capabilities were significantly enhanced in 2023 when Sumitomo Forestry acquired an 80% ownership stake, providing access to global resources and balance-sheet strength.

Founded more than three centuries ago, Sumitomo Forestry is publicly traded on the Tokyo Stock Exchange and ranks as the eighth-largest homebuilder in the United States. Executives say this partnership has allowed Southern Impression to secure more competitive supplier agreements, stabilize pricing, and deliver projects at a time when rising interest rates and insurance costs have challenged the broader housing sector.

The firm positions itself as a vertically integrated solution for institutional investors seeking turnkey BTR execution, offering general contracting services along with structured debt and equity options. Company officials noted that demand for purpose-built rental housing remains strong across the Sun Belt, particularly in markets attracting new residents and employers.

Southern Impression Homes is part of the Sumitomo Forestry family of builders and specializes in the construction and delivery of build-to-rent communities nationwide. Additional information about current projects and services is available at www.SouthernImpressionHomes.com and on the company’s social media channels.

Originally reported by Southern Impression Homes in Construction Dive.

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