Many of us dream of owning high-end fashion accessories. Luxury watches, precious rings, gleaming necklaces, and other jewelry items are some of the fashionable pieces we dream of owning but may be unable to afford. Pawn shops offer gently used goods that bring these items within reach.

There are a few strategies to use when shopping that ensure you find the best deals on luxury items. Here are a few to be aware of.

Do Your Research

Research in advance to learn what items are worth. Get prepared so you know what constitutes fair pricing.

Shop Around

Some pawn shops may offer better prices than others. Shop around to find a pawn shop that provides fair pricing on the goods you have your eye on.

Ensure Your Item is Authentic

Licensed pawn shops understand the importance of buying and selling authentic items. However, there is always a chance that an item got under the radar.

When researching an item, find out the best way to determine its authenticity. For example, authentic items may have specific engravings and other characteristics.

Receipts and certificates of authenticity will also tell you if an item is real.

Consider the Condition of the Item

A pawn shop should never charge full retail value for a used item. The reduction from the full price will depend on the item’s condition. An item with signs of damage should be greatly reduced from its retail price.

The shop should fairly mark down the price considering the extent of damage. Ensure the item you’re buying is worth it. Don’t pay good money for something that doesn’t function properly or look its best.

Be Prepared to Negotiate

Most pawn shops are prepared for shoppers to negotiate. They may even mark up an item a bit to account for negotiations.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when negotiating:

·  Use Your Knowledge: Your research will help determine an item’s value, so you have a fair price in mind.

·  Be Respectful: Be respectful throughout the negotiation process to ensure you get a better deal. If you get upset or argumentative, the representative may be less likely to work with you.

·  Make a Fair Offer: You may pay more than your original offer, but your starting point should be fair and realistic. It will show the dealer that you know what you are doing and prevent them from getting upset if they feel you are trying to rip them off.

Shop at Locations You Trust

Reputable locations tend to offer fair prices and quality goods. Check out shops in your area to find ones with good reviews and a history of trusted service in your community. Consider their selection and the condition of the items they sell.

Cash Express is a pawn shop you can trust. We strive to provide luxury pieces at fair price points. We offer friendly, knowledgeable service.

Contact us for great deals on the items you dreamed of owning.

People have varying opinions of pawn shops, but most are aboveboard businesses that support their local economies and communities. They provide jobs, allow people to purchase items at a discount, and even offer loans. Read on to learn how they can be an asset to your neighborhood.

How Pawn Shops Support Local Communities

Pawn Shops Sell Discount Items

A pawn shop buys used items from sellers and sells them at discount prices. They allow people to profit from their items and purchase goods for less. Individuals with budgetary limitations can attain the items they need at a fraction of the cost.

Pawn Shops Offer Loans

Pawn shops also offer collateral loans. People bring in items in return for a cash loan. They repay the loan over time with interest. If they cannot repay the loan, the store keeps the item, but the unpaid amount will never reflect poorly on the individual’s credit report.

The system allows people with poor credit to secure loans without facing steep default penalties.

Creates Jobs

Like any business, pawn shops create jobs. They hire people to help in the shop. They also support other businesses so their employees can thrive.

Supports Other Businesses

Pawn shops can support other businesses in the area. They can help create a thriving shopping hub that becomes a neighborhood and tourist attraction. They may also rely on nearby businesses for deliveries, supplies, and food.

Pays Taxes

Pawn shops pay taxes that support the local community. They help fund police and fire services, education and health services, libraries, road maintenance, and other projects and programs.

Work With a Trusted Pawn Shop

Not all pawn shops are created equal. Ensure you are working with a pawn shop that supports your community by looking for the following characteristics.

·  Fair Loans: A trusted pawn shop will offer fair loans with reasonable interest rates and minimal fees.

·  Competitive Prices: Pawn shops should pay sellers fair prices for their items and sell them at competitive prices considering their retail value and condition.

·  Reviews and Recommendation: Check out a pawn shop’s online reviews to ensure they are reputable. Ask friends and relatives for pawn shop recommendations to find a business you are satisfied with.

·  Consider Reputation: Pawn shops that have been in business for a while will have developed a reputation for serving their community. The business should also have low staff turnover and management.

·  Licensing: A licensed pawn shop will abide by local laws and regulations. Customers will be protected from unfair business practices.

·  Insured: An insured pawn shop will reimburse you for items in their possession. It protects items that may become stolen or damaged.

Choose Cash Express

Cash Express is a trusted Philadelphia, PA pawn shop. Our expertise in antiques, diamonds, and precious metals ensures we offer and charge fair prices. We also provide cash loans for valuable items.

We are known for our friendly service. We help the community by offering low-cost upscale goods at affordable prices. We keep the economy moving.

Contact us to learn more about our terrific selection.