Steve Witkoff is a prominent American real estate investor, developer, and attorney best known as the founder of The Witkoff Group and as a high-profile advisor to Donald Trump. As of 2026, he serves in a critical diplomatic capacity as the U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East, leveraging decades of high-stakes negotiation experience to broker international agreements. His portfolio includes some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, such as New York City’s Woolworth Building and the Daily News Building, establishing him as a titan in the global property market.
In this comprehensive guide, you will learn about Witkoff’s rise from a real estate attorney to a multi-billionaire developer. We explore his extensive property portfolio, his deep-rooted personal friendship with Donald Trump, and his transition into international diplomacy. From his early days in the Bronx to his current role mediating Middle Eastern peace talks and Russia-Ukraine negotiations, this article provides an authoritative look at one of the most influential figures in contemporary business and politics.
Early Life and Academic Background
Steve Witkoff was born on March 15, 1957, in the Bronx, New York, and raised in a Jewish family on Long Island. His father, Martin Witkoff, was a successful executive in the garment industry, which provided Steve with an early exposure to the world of business and negotiation.
He attended Hofstra University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science in 1980, followed by a Juris Doctor (JD) in 1983. This legal foundation proved instrumental in his early career, allowing him to navigate the complex regulatory and contractual landscapes of New York City real estate.
Professional Legal Career Beginnings
Witkoff began his professional journey as a real estate attorney at the prestigious New York firm Dreyer & Traub. During his tenure there, he represented major developers and investors, gaining a reputation for his sharp intellect and ability to close difficult deals.
It was at Dreyer & Traub that Witkoff first encountered Donald Trump, who was then a rising developer and client of the firm. Their professional relationship eventually blossomed into a decades-long personal friendship often cited as a cornerstone of Witkoff’s later political involvement.
Founding of Stellar Management
In 1985, Steve Witkoff partnered with fellow attorney Laurence Gluck to form Stellar Management. The company’s name was a play on their first names, “Steve” and “Larry,” and it focused on acquiring undervalued residential properties in Manhattan and the Bronx.
The duo specialized in “gut renovations” of distressed assets, transforming them into profitable rental units. By the mid-1990s, Stellar Management had acquired nearly 90 buildings, making Witkoff a significant player in the New York residential market before he transitioned into commercial skyscrapers.
Launch of The Witkoff Group
In 1997, Witkoff founded The Witkoff Group, a privately held real estate firm headquartered in New York City. This new venture allowed him to shift his focus toward larger commercial acquisitions and luxury developments across the United States.
Under his leadership as Chairman and CEO, the firm expanded its reach into major cities like Los Angeles, Miami, and Las Vegas. The Witkoff Group is recognized for its vertically integrated approach, handling everything from land acquisition and financing to construction and property management.
The Woolworth Building Acquisition
One of Witkoff’s most legendary deals occurred in 1998 when he purchased the Woolworth Building for $155 million. At the time, the acquisition of this “Cathedral of Commerce” was seen as a bold move, as the historic landmark had not changed hands since its completion in 1913.
Witkoff’s vision for the building included modernizing its office spaces while preserving its Gothic Revival architecture. This project solidified his reputation as a developer capable of managing high-profile, historically significant assets that define the New York City skyline.
Luxury Residential Skyscraper Portfolio
The Witkoff Group has been behind several of New York’s most recognizable luxury residential towers, including 111 Murray Street in Tribeca. This 800-foot-tall skyscraper features a distinct flared top and provides panoramic views of the Hudson River and the city.
Other notable residential projects include 150 Charles Street in the West Village and 10 Madison Square West. These developments are characterized by their “concierge-level” amenities and architectural integration into their respective historic neighborhoods.
Expansion into South Florida Markets
Recognizing the shift in luxury demand, Witkoff aggressively expanded his portfolio into South Florida, particularly Miami Beach and West Palm Beach. Major projects like the Shore Club and Shell Bay have redefined high-end hospitality in the region.
The firm is currently developing Ocean Terrace in North Beach, a 2.2-acre site featuring a luxury condominium tower and a restored historic hotel. This regional focus has allowed Witkoff to capitalize on the “wealth migration” to Florida seen in the early 2020s.
The Las Vegas “Fontainebleau” Project
Witkoff played a pivotal role in the revival of the Fontainebleau Las Vegas, a massive resort and casino project that sat dormant for years following the 2008 financial crisis. He acquired the unfinished structure in 2017 with plans to finish it as the “Drew Las Vegas.”
While the project faced delays due to the pandemic, it eventually opened under its original Fontainebleau name after being re-acquired by the original developer with Witkoff’s initial groundwork serving as the catalyst for the site’s completion. This endeavor highlighted Witkoff’s willingness to take on massive, complex “distressed” projects.
Friendship with Donald Trump
The friendship between Steve Witkoff and Donald Trump is one of the most enduring in the New York real estate world. A famous anecdote from 1986 describes Witkoff buying a ham-and-cheese sandwich for Trump when the future president found himself without cash during a meeting.
This personal bond grew through years of golfing together and shared business interests. Witkoff has been a staunch defender of Trump during both his presidencies, often acting as a bridge between the administration and the New York business community.
Role as Middle East Envoy
In 2024, following his election to a second term, Donald Trump appointed Steve Witkoff as the U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East. This appointment was noteworthy because Witkoff came from a business background rather than traditional diplomatic circles.
His primary mandate involved brokering ceasefires and normalization agreements between regional powers. Despite his lack of formal State Department experience, his “deal-maker” approach was praised by administration officials for cutting through bureaucratic red tape to achieve results.
Negotiating Global Peace Missions
Beyond the Middle East, Witkoff’s role expanded in 2025 to include Special Envoy for Peace Missions. He became a key figure in negotiations surrounding the Russia-Ukraine War, participating in high-level meetings in Abu Dhabi and Europe.
His diplomatic style is characterized by direct communication with world leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian officials. Reports from late 2025 and early 2026 indicate he has been instrumental in proposing “bridging plans” intended to bring the conflict to a sustainable resolution.
Net Worth and Financial Standing
As of early 2026, Steve Witkoff’s net worth is estimated at approximately $2 billion. This fortune is derived primarily from his equity stakes in The Witkoff Group’s massive real estate portfolio, which includes over 70 buildings globally.
His wealth is distributed across commercial office space, luxury hotels, and residential condominiums. In late 2025, reports surfaced that Witkoff was finalizing his divestment from his firm to mitigate potential conflicts of interest during his tenure as a government envoy.
Personal Life and Family
Steve Witkoff was married to Lauren Jill Rappoport, an attorney, in 1987; the couple reportedly separated in 2024. They have three sons: Alex, Zach, and the late Andrew.
His sons have taken on significant roles within The Witkoff Group, with Alex Witkoff serving as the CEO as of 2026. This family-led structure ensures the continuity of the Witkoff legacy in real estate while Steve focuses on his public service and diplomatic duties.
Tragedy and Philanthropic Advocacy
In 2011, the Witkoff family suffered a profound tragedy when their son, Andrew Witkoff, died of an opioid overdose at a sober-living facility. This event transformed Steve Witkoff into a vocal advocate for addiction awareness and reform in the recovery industry.
He has donated millions to rehabilitation programs and was a member of President Trump’s Great American Economic Revival Industry Groups. His personal experience with loss has frequently informed his philanthropic efforts, focusing on improving the quality and accountability of addiction treatment centers.
Practical Information: Working with Witkoff
If you are looking to engage with The Witkoff Group or learn more about their active projects, here are the essential details:
- Corporate Headquarters: New York City (Manhattan), with regional offices in Miami and Los Angeles.
- Active Portfolio: Primarily luxury residential, hospitality, and Class-A office space.
- Development Opportunities: The firm frequently partners with institutional investors (e.g., JPMorgan Chase, Starwood Capital) for large-scale developments.
- What to Expect: Witkoff projects are known for high-end “hospitality-driven” services, even in residential settings.
- Public Outreach: Steve Witkoff is a frequent speaker at real estate summits and political conventions, where he discusses market trends and geopolitical stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Steve Witkoff?
Steve Witkoff is a billionaire real estate developer, the founder of The Witkoff Group, and the current U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East. He is a longtime close friend and advisor to Donald Trump.
What is Steve Witkoff’s net worth in 2026?
His net worth is estimated at approximately $2 billion, largely held in real estate assets and development equity.
Which buildings does The Witkoff Group own?
Notable properties include the Woolworth Building, the Daily News Building, 111 Murray Street, and the Park Lane Hotel in New York, as well as several luxury resorts in South Florida.
What is his role in the Trump administration?
He serves as the Special Envoy to the Middle East and the Special Envoy for Peace Missions, focusing on international conflict resolution.
How did Steve Witkoff and Donald Trump meet?
They met in 1986 while Witkoff was a real estate attorney representing clients in deals where Trump was also involved. They bonded over their shared interest in New York real estate.
Was Steve Witkoff involved in the Gaza ceasefire?
As Special Envoy, he was a lead negotiator in the late 2024 and early 2025 talks that led to the initial ceasefire and hostage exchange between Israel and Hamas.
What happened to Steve Witkoff’s son?
His son Andrew died of an opioid overdose in 2011, leading Steve to become a dedicated advocate for reform in the addiction treatment industry.
Final Thoughts
The career of Steve Witkoff is defined by a unique transition from the “blood sport” of New York City real estate to high-stakes international diplomacy. By 2026, he has successfully repositioned himself as a pivotal figure in global affairs, applying the same “deal-maker” philosophy to geopolitics that once allowed him to acquire the Woolworth Building. His legacy is one of unconventional influence, proving that personal loyalty and business acumen can occasionally bypass traditional bureaucratic channels to achieve significant breakthroughs.
While his real estate ventures established his fortune and architectural footprint, his role as Special Envoy has established his historical significance. From mediating the Israel-Hamas ceasefires of 2025 to leading indirect talks with Iran in early 2026, Witkoff has demonstrated that the “Trumpian” style of diplomacy—direct, transactional, and personality-driven—can disrupt long-standing stalemates. Whether viewed as a visionary developer or a controversial diplomat, his impact on the skyline of New York and the borders of the Middle East remains undeniable.
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