Business executive Jayson Pocius still remembers the moment he first realized real estate wasn’t just about buying and selling properties—it was about vision. Years ago, standing in front of an aging Chicago building, he saw more than crumbling brick and outdated fixtures. He saw potential.
“I remember thinking, ‘What if this space could be completely reimagined?’” Pocius said. “Not just flipped, but transformed into something valuable for the community.”
That mindset has driven his career ever since.
Born and raised in Chicago, Jayson Pocius built a strong foundation in business, earning an MBA from Loyola University Chicago. He launched his real estate career at KB Home as part of its land acquisition team, specializing in identifying and underwriting residential developments. But he wasn’t content to remain behind the scenes.
Today, he is recognized as a thought leader who blends business and design expertise to create community-focused innovations. After founding several successful real estate LLCs in Chicago, he took an entrepreneurial leap and created DONTBECHI Designs. His strategic move to Las Vegas aligned with the city’s rapid expansion and evolving real estate landscape, allowing him to champion projects that emphasize sustainability, smart-home integration and the revitalization of older urban spaces.
“My goal has always been to create something meaningful,” he said. “Whether it’s a beautifully designed home, a thriving mixed-use space or a property that energizes an entire neighborhood, real estate is more than a transaction—it’s about impact.”
Pocius also credits sports, particularly basketball, for honing his leadership and strategic thinking. He served as a special assistant to the head coach for Roosevelt University’s men’s basketball team, an experience he said taught him the importance of teamwork, discipline and perseverance.
We recently sat down with Jayson Pocius to learn more about his life, career and the evolving world of real estate. Below, he shares insights into overcoming professional challenges and his vision for the future of real estate development.
A Conversation with Jayson Pocius
How do you stay focused and resilient when facing challenges in your professional journey?
First and foremost, I try to keep the big picture in mind. Las Vegas is such a dynamic market, so while challenges inevitably arise—zoning issues, market fluctuations or construction delays—I remind myself these are just bumps in the road. Adaptability also plays a huge role. Instead of getting discouraged when things don’t go as planned, I focus on being flexible, whether it’s tweaking design plans, exploring new funding options or partnering with different teams.
On a personal level, I’ve learned that resilience isn’t just about working nonstop. Taking care of myself, whether it’s through exercise, family time or stepping back to recharge, is vital. Finally, I make it a priority to keep learning. Real estate and design evolve quickly, and staying ahead of the curve helps me turn obstacles into opportunities.
What trends in real estate development excite you the most right now?
Sustainability is definitely at the top of the list. People want eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs that are kinder to the environment and offer long-term cost savings. I’m also fascinated by the continued rise of smart-home technology. Integrating features like automation and advanced security systems is quickly becoming the norm.
Mixed-use developments—especially walkable communities that blend living, working and entertainment—are transforming how we interact with urban spaces. It’s a shift that fits perfectly with Las Vegas’s rapid growth. Finally, I’m excited by the trend of wellness-focused real estate. Adding gyms, green spaces and better air filtration can significantly enhance quality of life. These movements are reshaping the industry, and I’m thrilled to be part of that transformation.
What advice would you give to someone looking to build a successful career in real estate development?
Stay adaptable and never stop learning. The market is constantly changing, and you have to be ready to pivot. Networking is also crucial—build relationships with developers, architects, contractors and investors. Collaboration often lays the groundwork for meaningful projects.
Don’t be afraid to start small and learn the ropes. Every experience, whether it’s a tiny remodel or a multi-million-dollar development, teaches you something valuable. Finally, keep an eye on your long-term goals. Real estate is a marathon, not a sprint, and a clear vision, combined with persistence, will take you far.
Can you share a development project that stands out as a major career milestone for you?
One that really stood out was a mixed-use development in the heart of Las Vegas. It combined both residential and commercial spaces, and the project required a lot of coordination between various stakeholders, from city planning officials to county commissioners. It was a turning point for me in managing large-scale projects under tight timelines and regulations.
The success of that development reinforced my belief in collaboration—when multiple sectors come together, you can create something truly impactful for the community. It also solidified my commitment to revitalizing neighborhoods in a way that respects their history while embracing modern design and amenities.
Is there a quote or philosophy that has guided you throughout your career?
Ryan Serhant’s words have always resonated with me: “If you take care of the work, the work will take care of you.” It reminds me to stay committed to the day-to-day grind and the details. The bigger picture comes together when you focus on doing the best possible job right where you are.
Jayson Pocius On His Thoughts for the Future
Looking ahead, Pocius sees the next decade of real estate development as an era of transformation. Sustainability, smart technology, and mixed-use spaces will continue to shape the way cities grow.
“The future of real estate isn’t just about buildings—it’s about creating environments that enhance the way people live and work,” he says. “Developers who prioritize innovation, sustainability, and community-driven spaces will be the ones leading the industry.”
Real estate is more than just a career for Jayson Pocius—it’s a passion. From transforming properties to predicting market trends, he is constantly looking for ways to innovate and create lasting impact.
Las Vegas is a city of reinvention, and Pocius is helping to shape its next chapter. His ability to balance business expertise with creativity sets him apart in an industry that thrives on vision. As he continues to push the boundaries of real estate design, one thing is clear—he’s just getting started.
