Finding Hope in Jesus
About Me
Payton Mayes is the Chief Executive Officer, part-owner, and Board Member of JPI, a national developer, builder, and investment manager of Class A multifamily communities across the United States and one of the most active privately held real estate companies in the country.
As CEO, Payton focuses on setting the long-term vision and strategic direction of the company in partnership with JPI’s executive leadership team. He is particularly passionate about attracting exceptional talent and building a differentiated real estate platform driven by strong culture, disciplined execution, and long-term relationships. Payton believes that the most enduring companies are ultimately built by extraordinary teams aligned around a clear mission and shared values.
Payton has extensive experience originating and managing real estate investments across domestic and international markets. Prior to joining JPI, he served as Chief Investment Officer for DHIC Communities, a D.R. Horton company, where he was recruited to grow platforms outside of core homebuilding operations.
Earlier in his career, Payton co-founded Cephas Partners, where he partnered with The Blackstone Group to acquire a portfolio from Bank of America Merrill Lynch that was funded with over $500 million of equity and with a total enterprise value of underlying assets exceeding $4 billion. The portfolio included assets located throughout the United States, South America, and Europe. Payton also previously served as Managing Director of Merrill Lynch Global Real Estate Principal Investments (GREPI), where he was Co-Head of GREPI Americas and Europe from 2009 to 2012 and Head of GREPI Latin America from 2006 to 2008, based in New York. He is a CFA® charterholder.
Payton graduated summa cum laude from Texas A&M University with a B.S. in Agribusiness, completing his undergraduate degree in three years. He later earned an M.B.A. with a concentration in Finance, graduating as the highest-ranking member of his class.
Payton serves his community in several ways, including Chairman of the Board of the National Christian Foundation of North Texas; Founding Board Member of Aggie Real Estate at Mays Business School; and founder, past president, and Board Member of the Northeast Tarrant County A&M Club. He is also a constant cheerleader and strategic partner of several ministry organizations. Payton and his family are active members of 121 Community Church in Grapevine, Texas.
Payton and his wife Andrea have three children: Merritt (2006), Channing (2008), and Stella (2010). Payton's upbringing on a small ranch in Coleman, Texas, provided experiences that continue to shape his values and work ethic.
My Story
I grew up believing in God but had no understanding of who Jesus was or what it meant to have a personal relationship with Him. That began to change when, on my second date with Andrea, my wife, on February 14, 2004, she encouraged me to explore my faith. From that moment, everything started to shift.
I have learned that when I truly put Him first, life is better, and the worries that once consumed me lose their significance in the light of His Kingdom. My hope and prayer are that family, friends, colleagues, and even strangers will feel encouraged to be more vulnerable and open up about the struggles they face. We are all imperfect, but we can be redeemed through the love of Jesus. This is why I place my hope in Him.
Our Story
Our pastor at 121 Community Church, Ross, invited us to share a part of our story with the church. Andrea, who tends to be more reserved and prefers to avoid the spotlight (though she’s even more beautiful now than the day we met), felt God prompting her to step out in faith and open up. This video captures that powerful and emotional moment of vulnerability.
A Humbling Honor
I had the tremendous privilege of being a guest on "Common Sense with Dr. Ben Carson."
Dr. Carson's wisdom, humility, and transparency about his faith in leadership have been a constant source of inspiration to me. It was an honor to share my journey, the values that have shaped my life, and the lessons God has taught me along the way.
Worship Playlist
Worship songs have been a profound source of strength for me, helping me stay grounded in Christ, especially amidst the busyness of life. They uplift my heart, refocus my mind, and help me return to a place of peace and surrender. Here are some of my favorite songs that have truly been a game changer in deepening my walk with Him.
The Journey: Highs, Lows & Lessons
In 2017, God inspired me to capture the defining milestones of my life - a journey marked by both triumphs and trials, with His hand guiding me through each moment. Click on "The Mayes Story" to read about the ups, the downs, and some questionable choices.
Organizations I am Passionate About
