Today we’d like to introduce you to Annette Sydes
Annette, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Life has a funny way of leading you to where you’re meant to be! Never in a million years did I think I’d become a REALTOR®, but here I am—ten years in and absolutely loving it. Going to college, you’re so young!! I was 17 starting college – no way I knew what I wanted to do with my life yet! But what I did know is how important it was for me and my story to go to college.
My story really begins with my family, who immigrated from Poland when my mom was 16. They came to the U.S. in search of better opportunities, and their sacrifices shaped everything I do. Being a first-generation American, earning my college degree was incredibly meaningful—not just for me, but for the generations before me who worked so hard to give me that chance.
What did I know at that time? That my wheel house was the sciences, so I pursued a degree in Microbiology from ETSU before returning home to Knoxville, where I was offered an incredible opportunity in Infection Control at UT Medical Hospital. But I knew I wanted to continue learning, so while working full-time, I earned my Master’s in Public Health from the University of Tennessee. That led me to an exciting role consulting for the CDC, helping communities across the country prepare for pandemics and natural disasters. It was incredibly rewarding work, but something was missing—I craved a more personal, hands-on connection with the people I was helping.
That’s when real estate kept creeping into my mind. I started researching, talking to friends in the industry, and reflecting on what I truly wanted in a career. In 2015, I took a leap of faith, got licensed, and told myself to give it a year. That year turned into 10, and today, I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
Real estate combines everything I love—helping people, solving problems, and making a meaningful impact in my community. Whether it’s guiding first-time homebuyers, helping families relocate, or assisting sellers, I get to be a trusted partner in one of life’s biggest milestones. I’m so grateful I listened to those nudges 10 years ago because this career has been the perfect fit in ways I never imagined!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Gosh… a smooth road? Is that real life?! The best things often come from challenges that push you to grow. Switching careers was not easy—learning a new industry, building my business from the ground up, and trusting myself through the uncertainties. But I’ve learned to lean into challenging moments, find the lesson, and pivot when needed.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Annette Sydes, REALTOR®?
I am a REALTOR® with Realty Executives Associates in Knoxville, TN, specializing in residential real estate. I work one-on-one with buyers and sellers, guiding them through every step of the process with a personalized approach. When you work with me, you’re not getting a big team—you’re getting me, my expertise, and my full commitment to making the experience smooth, stress-free, and (dare I say) even fun! I am very committed to our community through supporting local businesses, volunteering with local organizations and I am also a Board Member for East Tennessee REALTOR®, Knoxville Symphony Orchestra and Helping Mamas Knoxville.
What sets me apart? My deep-rooted passion for helping people, my community-driven approach, and my ability to anticipate my clients’ needs before they even realize them. Buying or selling a home is a huge life decision, and my goal is to make sure my clients feel confident, informed, and supported from start to finish.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
My business is built on relationships and referrals! I’m incredibly proud to have over 80+ five-star reviews from past clients, and I don’t pay for leads—my business thrives because of referrals from happy clients, friends, and family.
If you or someone you know is looking to buy or sell a home in Knoxville or the surrounding areas, I’d love to help! You can call, text, or email me—I can’t wait to connect and make your real estate goals a reality!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://annettesydes.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annettesydes/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567151152084
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annettesydes/
