Women We Admire is pleased to announce the Top 50 Women Leaders in Real Estate for 2025. As one of the most dynamic and influential sectors of the economy, real estate shapes the way people live, work, and connect. From navigating market fluctuations to driving growth and revitalization efforts, these women are advancing the industry through thoughtful leadership and strategic decision-making. Their work reflects a deep understanding of both the business and human sides of real estate—balancing financial insight with a commitment to building strong, lasting communities.
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Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of the Top 50 Women Leaders in Real Estate for 2025.
Chelby Sanders
Managing Principal, Cresa
Chelby Sanders is a Managing Principal for Cresa, the world’s largest occupier-only commercial real estate firm. Sanders has a passion for bringing people and possibilities together to create spaces for companies that go beyond. She believes that creative thinking powers the vision and business of commercial real estate and can be the driver for the business, brand, culture, and bottom line. With over 20 years in real estate, Sanders has been fortunate to collaborate on extraordinary projects. Hilton’s HQ relocation, a pivotal moment, marked the beginning of an inspiring journey for her. She considered it an honor to facilitate the move of a 250,000-square-foot headquarters from Los Angeles to Tysons Corner, Virginia. Equally memorable was her involvement in American Airlines’ 1.2-million-square-foot project to reshape its headquarters campus following the merger with US Airways. Outside of real estate, Sanders is an entrepreneur and founded Titanium Commercial, an ambitious limestone quarry project in West Texas. She has assembled an expert team to steer the day-to-day operations, leveraging their strengths. She is also a co-owner of QB 6666s Ranch, a fully operating cattle ranch that feeds her passion for the outdoors and for horses and cattle. Sanders is a member of the board and Finance Committee for Fair Park First, Dallas’ hidden gem and home to the State Fair of Texas and the largest collection of Art Deco art and architecture in the US. She graduated from the University of Texas at Tyler with an undergraduate degree in accounting.
View the full list of honorees on Women we Admire.