Our Mission
As a leader in the Northwest auction industry for the past 40 years, we continue to see the value in conducting live, onsite auctions that bring out good-hearted competitive natures. Promoting an enjoyable and professional environment, clients get to experience a personal touch to every step of the liquidating process. Founded on helping families in Idaho & Oregon, we have made it our goal to create a sense of trust for those around us. Everyone knows Downs Auction is committed to excellence.
Bill & Vonda Downs – Founders
In 1979, Bill Downs attended the Western School of Auctioneering in Billings, Montana. Shortly thereafter, Bill and his wife, Vonda, founded Bill Downs Auction Service in Nampa, Idaho. Over the years, Bill built a respected name in the auction industry, serving as president of the Idaho Auctioneers Association and on the board of the National Auctioneers Association. Bill and Vonda also dedicated their time to giving back to the community through benefit auctions supporting Christian schools, a tradition they continued even after retiring.
Throughout its history, Downs Auction has remained a family-based business committed to serving families and communities throughout the Northwest. In 2001, the business was sold to Larry and Debi Downs, who continued to build on its strong foundation and expand its services throughout the region.
In 2025, Dusty and Taylor Downs purchased the company from Larry and Debi, continuing the Downs family legacy into its next chapter. As a third-generation auctioneer, Dusty brings years of experience to the business, while Taylor brings her own dedication and commitment to serving customers. Together, they look forward to building on the company’s longstanding reputation for integrity, service, and professionalism while continuing to serve Idaho and the surrounding Northwest communities.
Committed
To
Excellence
Great experience! Larry and his employees worked very hard to help us with the entire process. This was a difficult process auctioning off some of our parents belongings. Downs Auction made this process as painless as possible and I would highly recommend them.
Downs Auction handled our auction and it was the most organized, professional experienced we have ever had. They set up and displayed all items in a logical manner. The auction itself was conducted with precision and accuracy. The clean up of trash was awesome and you couldn’t tell 400+ people had been on property. I highly recommend this company to handle all of your real estate and auction needs.
My mom owned a historical commercial bldg that had held my parents business for nearly 50 years. After my father passed away she decided to sell. I live out of state (GA). The property was listed for 2 years with two realtors with no success. We called Larry at Downs auction. He agreed to assist us and traveled an hour to meet with my mom and view the building. He advised us that our best route was to auction it as he felt it would be the most profitable. We were concerned at the risk of an absolute auction, but we agreed to do it. The auction was a huge success and brought even more than the building had been listed for! This was a emotional time … to sell a building that had been part of our family for so long. Larry was considerate of this and took great care to spend extra time with my mom and showed kindness, respect and professionalism. We are so grateful to have made the call to him!! Use this company.. you will not be sorry!