Derek Nelson, a former Arthur Rutenberg Homes Building Company President and highly regarded second-generation builder, now operates Nelson Homes, Inc., an independently owned and operated Arthur Rutenberg Homes franchise. Nelson started with Arthur Rutenberg Homes in 1989 as a building supervisor, working his way up to Building Company President in 1997. Under Derek's leadership, the franchise won the prestigious Builder of the Year award four times and twice won The Gold Cup, an award presented annually to the Arthur Rutenberg franchise with the highest customer satisfaction rating based solely on customer surveys.

Nelson Homes will build luxury homes in Sarasota and Manatee counties in prestigious, upscale communities and on customer-owned home sites. Nelson will also offer remodeling services.

Derek, his wife Patti and their three children make their home in Sarasota.