Taylor Larza to lead new PulteGroup Florida Panhandle division

PulteGroup will expand its footprint in the Sunshine State with a new Florida Panhandle division, positioning one of the nation’s largest homebuilders to capture more demand in a growth corridor.

The Atlanta-based builder announced the news on Monday, saying the new division will support its entry into Northwest Florida as the company continues to see strong demand for new homes across the state.

PulteGroup named Taylor Larza vice president and market manager for the new division, according to the company announcement. Larza joined PulteGroup in 2016 and has held procurement roles in Austin, Texas, and Jacksonville, Florida. He most recently served as vice president of procurement for the Northeast Florida division.

“Florida continues to be one of PulteGroup’s strongest markets, and our expansion into Northwest Florida and launch of the Florida Panhandle Division reflects the significant growth potential we see in that region,” said Rich McCormick, PulteGroup’s Southeast area president. “I want to congratulate Taylor Larza, who will lead our efforts to establish and grow the new division. Homebuyers across the panhandle will now have the chance to experience the outstanding quality, innovative designs, and vibrant lifestyle that our brands are known for.”

The Panhandle expansion follows a previously announced agreement between PulteGroup and The St. Joe Company for homesites in two Panhandle communities. That contract covers 1,326 homesites, with options that could increase the total to as many as 2,653, the companies said earlier this year.

Development of the first phase is expected to begin in 2027. Initial communities are expected to feature homes from PulteGroup brands Pulte Homes, Del Webb and DiVosta. Additional Panhandle communities will be announced as plans are finalized, according to the builder.

“The opportunity to build a new division from the ground up is an exciting challenge and a tremendous honor,” Larza said in the release. “I’m eager to help establish a strong foundation for our Panhandle Division while continuing to work closely with our Northeast Florida team, which will continue to support our operational functions as we develop.”

The announcement comes less than a year after PulteGroup announced that it will expand into the Cincinnati market.