ROCKVILLE, Md., March 28, 2025 — Sumitomo Forestry America, Inc. is strengthening The DRB Group (The Development & Residential Building Group) by announcing its decision to reorganize and combine two homebuilding companies into a single entity. Effective April 1, Brightland Homes, based in Dallas, will be integrated into the DRB Group.
Sumitomo Forestry America, Inc. holds ownership stakes in five U.S. homebuilders. The decision to integrate Brightland Homes under the DRB Group is a significant move that will alter the competitive landscape. This strategic decision will transform DRB Group’s presence from a regional player on the East Coast into a national entity, extending its operations into Texas, Arizona, Colorado, Tennessee, and adding Jacksonville to its existing Florida operations.
This consolidation will expand DRB Group’s operational scope to include:
- 19 Divisional Operations across 14 States
- A workforce of 1,500 Employees
- Approximately 9,000 Expected Home Closings in 2025
Under the leadership of CEO Ronny Salameh, the DRB Group team has consistently grown its market share, currently building in 10 states along the East Coast. In March 2024, DRB Group acquired Biscayne Homes, a builder based in Tampa, further solidifying its presence in Florida. With the previous acquisitions of three other builders, the company’s experienced executive team has proven its ability to successfully integrate new operations and achieve positive financial results.
“The decision by Sumitomo Forestry to consolidate Brightland Homes into DRB Group is a significant one, and we appreciate the confidence they have shown in us,” said Ronny Salameh, CEO of DRB Group. He further stated, “This merger will unlock significant opportunities for our combined teams and our company as a whole in the future. It strengthens our relationship with Sumitomo Forestry America, and we will build on this foundation to achieve sustained growth in the years ahead.”
Atsushi Iwasaki, President of Sumitomo Forestry America, Inc., commented, “DRB Group, under the leadership of Ronny Salameh, continues to demonstrate impressive operational execution while increasing its market share. We are confident that the decision to merge the two companies will create significant synergies and exciting new growth opportunities for both parties.”
About The Development & Residential Building Group
For more than 35 years, The Development & Residential Building Group (DRB Group) has been a leader in homebuilding excellence. As a leading company in the industry, we prioritize innovation, quality, and expert craftsmanship in every home we construct.
With two distinguished homebuilding brands—DRB Homes and DRB Elevate 55+—we provide a wide array of meticulously designed floor plans, delivering award-winning homes tailored to diverse lifestyles.
In addition to homebuilding, DRB Group offers comprehensive real estate services. Keystone Title, our in-house title company, ensures smooth transactions, while DRB Group Development is a trusted partner for development projects, fee build arrangements, and build-for-rent investors, delivering exceptional value and outcomes.
Explore our communities at or for investors, discover the DRB Group difference at .
Media Contact:
Char Kurihara
Corporate Marketing
301.696.0200 x 5512
SOURCE DRB Group
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