meet the team

trae willis

head auctioneer, co-owner

Trae Willis serves as the Head Auctioneer and Co-Owner of Willis and Company Auctions, Inc. With over 30 years of experience in the auction industry, Trae is a former Virginia State Champion Auctioneer and has been a finalist in the World Automobile Auctioneer Championships six times. He specializes in automobile auctions and has extensive experience in estate sales, personal property sales, and equipment auctions.

In addition to his leadership at Willis and Company Auctions, Trae is actively involved in the auction industry, conducting daily sales for Fortune 500 companies at various auctions across the eastern United States. His goal is to bring buyers and sellers together in a way that ensures satisfaction for both parties.

Trae also has past experience as a realtor, which further enhances his ability to provide clients with comprehensive solutions in the real estate and auction markets.

A native of the Star City, where he currently resides with his wife, Shanan, Trae brings a wealth of industry expertise to his work. Together, Trae and Shanan have a combined 50 years of experience in the auction field and are dedicated to assisting clients in finding real estate solutions that meet their unique needs.


shanan willis

general manager, co-owner

Shanan Willis is co-owner of Willis & Company Auctions, Inc., alongside her husband, Trae. With over 20 years of experience in the auction industry, Shanan is dedicated to assisting clients through every step of the auction process for selling estates, real estate, commercial properties, equipment, and personal property.

As a licensed real estate agent for 10 years, she brings a wealth of knowledge to every auction, ensuring that each sale is handled with professionalism and care.

Before diving into auctions, Shanan spent 10 years as a licensed property and casualty insurance agent, which gives her a well-rounded perspective on the value of assets and risk management. That experience allows her the ability to offer you the best solutions in every situation.

When not helping clients, you will probably find Shanan at church, where she serves as Worship Director. She is also an avid musician whether singing, playing the piano, guitar, or flute, music is a huge part of her life.

Outside of work and music, she loves spending time with her husband, children, grandchildren and friends. And if there’s time, occasionally diving into a good book!