Finding my passion gave me direction. Pursuing it reshaped my business, sharpened my focus, and channeled my energy into the work where I truly thrive and make a difference.
I had just finished walking through a brand-new build in Hardin Valley—one of hundreds going up in that stretch of town. Everything about it was clean, modern and sleek… and yet something about its energy left me feeling completely drained. The house was fine, but I couldn’t caonnect with it. A few hours later, I stepped into a 1960s home in Fountain City with original woodwork and character built into every corner. My energy came back instantly. That’s when I knew—old homes were where I wanted to specialize.
My background is in construction. For 15 years, my brother and I ran a construction company together. I loved the physical work—remodeling, building, problem-solving. Being on-site, creating something with my hands, and seeing it come together was exactly the kind of work I thrived in. But eventually, the business grew to the point where I was stuck behind a desk, and the hands-on part I loved was gone. I was ready for a change.
One thing I knew for sure was that I loved houses. So I looked at my options—agent, appraiser, inspector—and real estate made the most sense. I liked that I could work independently, not rely on a crew, and build something on my own terms. I got licensed in 2019, started full-time immediately, and never looked back.
My construction experience gave me a huge edge. I can walk through a house with a client and help them see beyond the surface—what needed fixing, what was serious, what was no big deal. I stay in my lane, but if I see signs of structural issues or water damage, I speak up. That kind of guidance goes a long way, especially when inspection reports come in and clients need someone who actually understands them.
As my business grew, it became clear what I was most drawn to: older homes. The kind built before the 1980s, with craftsmanship, original materials, and character that can’t be recreated. That moment in Fountain City, walking into a 1960s house and feeling my energy shift, showed me what I needed to pay attention to. These homes weren’t just properties – they had a living presence.

I focus my work on Knoxville’s older homes. I stay involved through local organizations like Knox Heritage, Town Hall East, and the Dogwood Arts Society. That community connection matters because the people who live in these homes care about preserving their character and history, which is all part of what makes these neighborhoods special.
When I walk through an old home, I can hear its voice. I notice how it’s aged, the craftsmanship in how it was built, and the sense of soul it carries. Selling these homes is about honoring what they are and helping buyers connect with that story so they see themselves as part of it. Some homes I’ve sold more than once. I track their history, stay updated on changes, and stay involved well after closing. I want to sell these homes again and again, keeping up with their stories. Like a historian, I can share their past and help people imagine the kind of life that’s been lived there, and the life the house has lived.
When people think of me, I want it to be simple: Oh yeah, Tobias—He loves old homes! That’s the work I’m most passionate about and where I do my best work.
Outside of real estate, it is likely no surprise that I enjoy restoring parts of my own house, gardening, and working on my old truck. My partner, Priscilla, and I spend a lot of time outdoors, biking and hiking in the mountains, usually with our dog, Rusty, tagging along.
Because of my active involvement with organizations like Knox Heritage, Town Hall East, and the Dogwood Arts Society, I have a strong understanding of Knoxville’s neighborhoods and how their history has shaped the homes within them. That perspective helps me advise clients with context—whether it’s recognizing a home’s architectural significance or understanding how an area has evolved over time.
My background in construction lets me interpret inspection reports clearly and identify issues that could affect a house’s integrity. I know what’s cosmetic and what’s serious, which helps clients make informed decisions without panic or guesswork. I work primarily with listings and focus on strategic pricing, helping sellers price realistically based on market data, and I take time to explain the reasoning behind every recommendation.
One of the most defining elements of my approach is how I tailor marketing to each home. I’ve hosted neighborhood-only open houses with hot toddy stations and charcuterie boards, mailed creative invites like the Slice of Pie open house, and built direct mail campaigns that people actually read. Every part of the listing—prep, presentation, and promotion—is handled with careful attention to the home’s voice and how to communicate that to the right buyers.
Cheers!
 
Tobias Kight
REALTOR®
Call/Text (865) 360-4888
Office (865) 474-7100
tobias@weichertap.com
TobiasLovesHouses.com

