Elizabethton, TN Auctions: Why Collins & Co. Leads the Way in East Tennessee Auctions

Brandon Keen • September 26, 2025

Don't trust "smooth-talkers" who don't invest in marketing your auction! Go with Elizabethton, Tennessee's Premier Auction Company. Go with Collins & Co. Realtors and Auctioneers... And  get top dollar for your assets!

When it comes to Elizabethton, TN auctions, Collins & Co. Realtors & Auctioneers is the trusted name buyers and sellers turn to. With decades of experience in Carter County and the Tri-Cities, our team delivers professional auction services that maximize value and simplify the selling process. We specialize in real estate auctions, estate auctions, farm and equipment auctions, automobile auctions, and specialty auctions for collectibles, providing tailored solutions for every situation.


Flexible Auction Formats: Online, Live & Hybrid

Collins & Co. offers three powerful auction methods designed for today’s marketplace. Our live auctions create an exciting, competitive environment that drives prices upward. Online auctions connect your property or items to buyers across the country, ensuring maximum visibility. Hybrid auctions combine both methods, giving sellers the broadest reach and buyers multiple ways to participate. No matter the format, our marketing strategies and auctioneering expertise help deliver results.


Real Estate Auctions

Real estate is one of our most in-demand auction categories. We handle residential properties, commercial buildings, vacant land, farms, and investment opportunities throughout Elizabethton, TN, and the surrounding Tri-Cities. Sellers benefit from the competitive bidding environment that often accelerates sales and achieves higher returns compared to traditional listings. Buyers appreciate the transparency of real estate auctions, where the process is clear and fair. Whether you are selling a family home, a rental property, or acreage, our team has the experience to market and sell your property quickly and effectively.


Estate Auctions

Settling an estate can be an overwhelming process. Collins & Co. makes it easier by offering comprehensive estate auctions that help families liquidate household contents, antiques, heirlooms, and personal property. We bring professionalism, compassion, and organization to what can be a difficult transition, ensuring items are marketed to the right buyers. Our estate auctions often draw collectors and dealers from across the region, resulting in strong sales for furniture, jewelry, tools, and unique items. If you need to settle an estate in Elizabethton or Carter County, our auction services provide a reliable solution.


Farm & Equipment Auctions

East Tennessee has deep agricultural roots, and Collins & Co. proudly supports farmers by offering farm and equipment auctions. These auctions feature tractors, farm implements, heavy machinery, and other equipment essential to agriculture. We understand the value of these assets and market them directly to buyers who rely on them for their operations. Whether you are retiring from farming, upgrading equipment, or selling off assets, our auctions connect you with serious bidders who recognize quality. For farmers in Elizabethton and beyond, this is the fastest and most effective way to turn equipment into cash.

Wooden gavel on stand next to a small house model, laptop, and documents on a table.

Automobile Auctions

Vehicles are another strong category we specialize in. From cars and trucks to RVs and recreational vehicles, our automobile auctions bring together motivated buyers and sellers. Auctions create urgency, often resulting in vehicles selling faster and at competitive prices compared to traditional private sales. Whether it’s a single vehicle or an entire fleet, Collins & Co. has the marketing power and auctioneer expertise to move inventory quickly. For residents and businesses in Elizabethton, TN, our auto auctions provide a hassle-free way to buy or sell vehicles with confidence.


Collectibles & Specialty Auctions

Beyond real estate and equipment, Collins & Co. also manages specialty auctions for collectibles, coins, sports cards, memorabilia, antiques, and other valuable items. These auctions often attract niche buyers and collectors eager to compete for unique pieces. Our online and hybrid formats ensure your collectibles are seen by buyers not only in Elizabethton but nationwide. Sellers benefit from competitive bidding that drives value, while buyers enjoy access to rare and hard-to-find items. No matter the specialty, we know how to market and sell assets to the right audience.


Why Choose Collins & Co. for Auctions?

As both a real estate agency and a professional auction company, Collins & Co. offers a unique advantage. We understand the real estate market, but we also excel in the fast-paced world of auctions. Our marketing, local expertise, and proven strategies ensure every auction we conduct has the best chance of success. Whether it’s land, homes, estates, farm equipment, vehicles, or collectibles, our team is committed to helping sellers achieve maximum value.


Serving Elizabethton and Beyond

Based in the heart of Elizabethton, TN, Collins & Co. proudly serves Carter County and the entire Tri-Cities region, including Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol. If you are searching for “Elizabethton, TN auctions”, Collins & Co. is your trusted partner for real estate and estate auctions, equipment sales, vehicle auctions, and more.

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East Tennessee Real Estate Updates, Tri-Cities Auction Insights, and Valuable Market Tips!

Understanding the Shift in Northeast Tennessee's Home Equity Landscape

By Jacob Force • November 4, 2025
Understanding the Shift in Northeast Tennessee's Home Equity Landscape Recent data from ATTOM reveals a subtle but significant shift in Northeast Tennessee's real estate market. According to Don Fenley at Core Data, the number of equity-rich properties in the Tri-Cities declined by 3.6% during the third quarter, while seriously underwater mortgages increased by 0.4%. While these changes may seem modest, they signal an important transition that could affect local homeowners, buyers, and the broader market. What Does "Underwater" Really Mean? A seriously underwater mortgage occurs when a homeowner owes at least 25% more than their property's current market value—a loan-to-value ratio of 125% or higher. Across the Tri-Cities' 86,923 mortgaged properties, certain areas show higher vulnerability. Abingdon's 24210 zip code leads the region with 4.8% of mortgages seriously underwater, followed by nearby 24202 Bristol at 4.7% and 24211 Abingdon at 4.0%. Meanwhile, communities like Elizabethton maintain stronger equity positions, with 60.6% of properties equity-rich. Market Stabilization After Years of Growth Rob Barber, CEO of ATTOM, notes that "after several years of strong equity growth that peaked in 2022, homeowner equity levels appear to be stabilizing." For Northeast Tennessee, this means the rapid appreciation that benefited many homeowners is moderating. The modest fluctuations suggest our housing market is finding balance rather than experiencing crisis. However, this stabilization presents challenges for specific groups. Homeowners who purchased near market peaks or in areas experiencing slower appreciation may find themselves with limited options. Selling becomes difficult when proceeds won't cover the outstanding loan balance. Refinancing to lower interest rates or access cash becomes nearly impossible when underwater. This constraint keeps inventory tight and may prevent families from relocating for job opportunities or life changes. Implications for Buyers and Sellers For prospective buyers, understanding equity distribution across zip codes provides valuable insight. Areas with higher percentages of underwater mortgages may see fewer listings as constrained sellers wait for values to recover. Conversely, communities like Johnson City's 37604, where 59.5% of properties are equity-rich, may offer more inventory as homeowners have flexibility to sell. Current sellers with strong equity positions—the majority in most Tri-Cities communities—remain well-positioned to make moves. However, anyone who purchased in the past two years should carefully evaluate their equity situation before listing. Looking Ahead The increase in underwater mortgages, though still relatively small compared to national trends, warrants attention. Real estate professionals must help clients navigate this evolving landscape with realistic expectations about pricing and timing. The market isn't in distress, but the era of guaranteed rapid appreciation has given way to a more measured environment where location, condition, and pricing strategy matter more than ever.
Aerial view of houses with green lawns, trees with fall foliage, and a curved road.

Unlocking Hidden Value: How Auction Marketing Can Move Stale Listings Fast

By Brandon Keen • October 20, 2025
Revive your stale real estate listing with Collins & Company’s professional auction marketing strategies. Fast sales, top value, and seriously qualified buyers.

How a Government Shutdown Could Impact East Tennessee's Real Estate Market

By Jacob Force • October 9, 2025
The recent federal government shutdown has created significant uncertainty in real estate markets nationwide, and East Tennessee is no exception. While our region's housing market has shown remarkable resilience, the ripple effects of a prolonged shutdown could touch local homebuyers, sellers, and the broader economy in ways many residents might not expect. Flood Insurance: An Immediate Concern The most immediate impact stems from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which lost its authority to issue new policies when the shutdown began on October 1. This program is critical for East Tennessee, where properties near rivers, creeks, and in flood-prone areas require flood insurance to complete transactions. With an estimated 1,400 property transactions threatened nationwide each day, local buyers and sellers in affected areas could face significant delays or even lost deals. While existing NFIP policies remain valid for 30 days and can be transferred to new owners, the growing uncertainty creates stress for families trying to close on their homes. The longer the lapse continues, the more precarious these situations become. Broader Market Disruptions Beyond flood insurance, government shutdowns typically trigger a cascade of delays that slow the entire real estate process. IRS income verification—essential for mortgage approval—can grind to a halt. FHA and VA loan processing, which many first-time homebuyers and veterans in our region rely on, faces significant backlogs. Federal housing program funding may freeze, affecting affordable housing initiatives in communities throughout East Tennessee. These disruptions hit particularly hard in a market already grappling with affordability challenges and limited inventory. East Tennessee has experienced strong demand and rising home prices in recent years, and any additional friction in the transaction process could sideline buyers who are already stretching their budgets. Economic Impact The stakes extend beyond individual transactions. According to the National Association of Realtors, the NFIP alone supports roughly half a million home sales annually, generating 1 million jobs and contributing $70 billion to the U.S. economy. Housing represents nearly 20% of the national economy, meaning prolonged shutdowns affect not just real estate professionals but contractors, home inspectors, title companies, and countless other businesses that depend on a healthy housing market. For East Tennessee's growing economy, a stable real estate market is essential. Local realtors continue advocating for swift congressional action to reauthorize the NFIP and end the shutdown, ensuring families and businesses can move forward with confidence.
A couple sits together, looking at a laptop. Boxes are nearby. One holds a mug.

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Your Property in the Tri-Cities Market

By Brandon Keen • August 25, 2025
Avoid costly mistakes when selling your Tri-Cities property. Collins & Co. shares 5 tips to sell faster, smarter, and for the best possible price.
Gavel resting on a stack of money against the backdrop of the American flag.

Why East Tennessee Buyers and Sellers Are Turning to Hybrid Real Estate Marketing

August 25, 2025
Discover why East Tennessee buyers and sellers choose Collins & Co.’s hybrid real estate marketing. MLS + auctions = faster sales, record land prices.

East TN Real Estate Market

By Bobbie McMahan • August 11, 2025
The real estate market in East Tennessee is currently experiencing strong demand due to the region's desirable living conditions, lower cost of living, and scenic surroundings. As a result, property values are generally on the rise. Factors contributing to this include remote work capability which has prompted a shift towards suburban and rural areas. In turn driving up demand for properties in places like Eastern TN. In addition, a shortage of housing inventory has further fueled the market. Don’t delay. Let Collins and Co. help you find your TN property.

Elizabethton Real Estate: First Half 2025 Market Analysis

By Jacob Force • July 29, 2025
As your local Elizabethton real estate specialist, I'm pleased to share a comprehensive look at how our Carter County market has performed during the first six months of 2025. The data reveals fascinating trends that tell the story of a market finding its balance after years of dramatic changes. A Journey of Market Stabilization Looking back at our market's evolution, Elizabethton has experienced a remarkable transformation. In December 2024, our median home price peaked at $264,000, reflecting the tail end of the pandemic-driven price surge. However, the first half of 2025 tells a different story – one of gradual market correction and stabilization. By February 2025, prices had adjusted to $251,000, and our mid-year data shows we've settled at a year-to-date median of $240,000. This represents a healthy market correction of approximately 9% from the December peak, bringing affordability back to Elizabethton while maintaining strong underlying value. Steady Sales Activity Despite Regional Volatility With 169 homes sold through June 2025, Elizabethton achieved a modest 1.2% increase in sales volume compared to the same period last year. This steady performance is particularly noteworthy given the dramatic swings occurring throughout our region. While some communities like Bluff City saw explosive 95.6% growth and others like Surgoinsville experienced 42.9% declines, Elizabethton maintained consistent buyer activity. This stability aligns with the broader migration patterns identified by Don Fenley, who noted that while "new residents continued flocking to the Tri-Cities," the flow decreased by 30% in 2024. Our steady sales volume suggests Elizabethton continues attracting both local buyers and newcomers seeking value in the region. Regional Value Leader At $240,000, Elizabethton's median price positions our community as an exceptional value proposition. We're significantly below premium markets like Jonesborough ($405,000) and Piney Flats ($425,000), while offering comparable quality of life and access to regional amenities. Even compared to the overall Tri-Cities median of $278,048, Elizabethton provides substantial savings without compromising on community character. Looking Ahead The first half of 2025 demonstrates that Elizabethton's real estate market has successfully navigated the post-pandemic adjustment period. Our modest 0.42% year-over-year price increase indicates we've reached a sustainable equilibrium, offering both buyers and sellers a predictable market environment. For buyers, this represents an excellent opportunity to enter a stabilized market with strong value potential. For sellers, the consistent sales activity and price stability provide confidence in market conditions. As we move into the second half of 2025, Elizabethton's combination of affordability, stability, and regional connectivity positions our community as a smart choice for anyone considering Carter County real estate.
Jacob force is a realtor and auctioneer

Fanatics and the Sports Card Market: A Game-Changing Shift

By Jacob Force • June 19, 2025
Fanatics and the Sports Card Market: A Game-Changing Shift: The sports card industry is experiencing seismic shifts as Fanatics secures exclusive licensing deals with major sports leagues, including the NBA, NFL, and MLB. Starting in 2026, Fanatics will take over card production from longtime industry leaders like Panini and Topps. This transition promises to reshape the collectibles landscape in ways that could dramatically impact card values and collector behavior. Positive Impacts on the Market: Fanatics bring significant advantages to sports card collecting. Their massive distribution network and retail partnerships could make cards more accessible to casual fans, potentially expanding the collector base beyond traditional hobbyists. The company's digital-first approach may introduce innovative features like QR codes linking to exclusive content, enhanced authentication technology, and seamless integration with fantasy sports platforms. Their financial resources dwarf those of current manufacturers, suggesting higher production values, better print quality, and more elaborate insert sets. Fanatics also has direct relationships with athletes through their merchandise deals, potentially creating unique autograph opportunities and exclusive content that previous manufacturers couldn't access. This vertical integration could lead to more authentic, player-driven collectibles. The company's tech-savvy approach may also address long-standing issues like counterfeiting through blockchain authentication and improved quality control processes. Potential Negative Consequences: However, this transition raises serious concerns among collectors. Fanatics lacks the decades of card-making expertise that Panini and Topps have cultivated. Their inexperience could result in design missteps, quality control issues, or products that feel more like corporate merchandise than authentic collectibles. The loss of competition could prove detrimental. Panini and Topps have pushed each other to innovate, creating diverse product lines that cater to different collector segments. A Fanatics monopoly might reduce variety and creativity while potentially increasing prices due to lack of competitive pressure. Established collectors worry about continuity. Long-running sets like Topps Heritage or Panini Prizm have built devoted followings over years. Disrupting these traditions could alienate core collectors who value consistency and heritage. Impact on Card Values: The transition period will likely create volatility in card values. Pre-Fanatics cards from established manufacturers may gain premium status as "final editions," similar to how Upper Deck baseball cards appreciated after losing their MLB license. Conversely, uncertainty about Fanatics' quality and design philosophy could suppress values until their products prove themselves. Long-term value impacts depend entirely on execution. If Fanatics delivers innovative, high-quality products while expanding the market, values could rise substantially. However, if they prioritize mass market appeal over collector-focused features, traditional hobbyists might flee to other sports or alternative collectibles, potentially deflating the entire market. The sports card industry stands at a crossroads, with Fanatics holding the keys to either unprecedented growth or potential disruption of a beloved hobby. If you need help evaluating or liquidating your collection, Please feel free to reach out. We are constantly looking for inventory for our sports card auctions. We market, auction, pack, and ship collectables around the county. Making Collins and Company Realtors and Auctioneers your one stop shop for collectable auctions.
An aerial view of a residential neighborhood with houses and trees.

Auction vs. Traditional Sale: Which is Right for Your Property?

By Brandon Keen • June 18, 2025
Not sure whether to sell your property via auction or traditional listing? Compare both methods and discover which strategy works best for your real estate goals.
A large house with a lush green lawn in front of it.

From Search to Sold: Buying a Home in Today’s Real Estate Market

By Brandon Keen • May 16, 2025
Smart Tennessee homebuyers succeed with these proven strategies, expert tips, and step-by-step guide to navigating the East TN real estate market.
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Collins & Co. Realtors And Auctioneers provides comprehensive real estate and auction services. Voted Best Real Estate Agency, Auction Firm, and Realtors by The Johnson Press and The Elizabethton Star Readers' Choice Awards, you can trust our experts to help you achieve your goals. Come see the difference our professional team of auctioneers and real estate agents can make! Contact us to get started today.

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(423) 543-5741

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David Collins - Real Estate Broker & Auctioneer

MLS Brokerage #364 - Real Estate Firm #265789 - P.A.L. #4465