If you need cash right away, you might be wondering what your best option is. If a bank or personal loan is out of the question, and you have an item of value on hand, your next best choice is your local pawn shop. But that then begs the question: which will get you the most money: selling or pawning?

Well, wonder no longer: we are here to help you choose the best option for your needs. While the option that is best for you and your family depends entirely on your pawn shop community in the circumstances, we can help you decide which is best for your needs. Keep reading to learn more about the pros and cons of selling when you need some quick cash.

Although selling and pawning may seem like similar things, they are actually very different. Your needs will determine which is the best option for you. Before we review the pros and cons of selling and pawning, we will describe some of the differences between selling and pawning. Both involve giving something up in exchange for cash. When you sell, you give up your item in exchange for money. When you pawn, you will get your item back only if you repay your loan within the terms set in your contract.

Pawning

At first glance, it might seem like pawning is the better option because you can reclaim your item and get the money you need. However, if you look more closely, you may discover that there are other significant factors to consider.

First, keep in mind that although almost anything can be pawned, and that there are certain items that nearly every pawn shop will buy, not every shop will be interested in every single item that comes through their doors. Your item may not be in demand, and you might have to visit multiple shops before finding one that is interested in your item.

Also, pawning does not necessarily guarantee a big loan. Your local pawn shop must estimate the value of your item and grant you a loan against a percentage of the total. The shop must think of every item regarding resale value. If you do not return to reclaim your item and pay its interest, reselling the object then becomes their problem, and they will need to make sure they can make a profit on it to stay in business.

Pros of pawning

A significant benefit of pawning is that you can get your item back if you repay your loan on time. If you pawned something with sentimental value, this might be a huge draw. Another significant benefit is that pawning will not affect your credit score, and you will not be subject to a credit check. Pawn shops are only concerned with the value of the item you offer when they give you a loan, not your credit history. And if you happen to miss payments or default on your loan, your credit score will not be affected.

Finally, pawning is a quick process. Applying for a loan at a bank can take days or even weeks, and there is no guarantee that your financial institution will come through for you. At a pawn shop, you will know right away if they can grant you the loan you need.

Cons of pawning

Although pawning guarantees you a chance to get your item back, your local pawn shop cannot wait for very long. You will be kept to a strict schedule of payments, which means that you will have only a set period of time to repay your loan in full before losing your item. In some cases, you may have the option of renewing the loan, but this will tack on more fees and interest, making it financially unfeasible to reclaim your item.

Also, even if you have an extremely valuable item to pawn, you will only be able to borrow a percentage of its worth. Again, depending on your needs, a minor portion of your item’s value may not be enough. It is up to you to know how much you need to make the transaction worthwhile.

Selling

Although pawn stores are known for quick loans that involve collateral, you can just as easily sell items to your local pawn shop.

Pros of selling

The most attractive benefit of selling is that you may get a much higher value than if you choose to pawn compared to pawning. This is because the shop can make it available for sale right away, rather than having to store it for the duration of the loan. However, if you have any interest in reclaiming your item, selling may not be the way to go.

Selling may be the better choice if you need some quick cash and you don’t want to go through the restrictions and commitment of a loan. You will not have to repay anything, and the money you receive is yours.

An additional advantage of selling may be that, if the item has no sentimental value to you, you can get rid of things you do not need and get some cash in hand.

Cons of selling

All of that notwithstanding, selling an item means you are relinquishing ownership forever. You’ll never get the item back. With pawning, on the other hand, you can still get your item back as long as you repay the loan, along with its fees and interest.

Remember, giving up ownership means that you cannot rely on taking out a loan from your pawn shop against the value of the item in the future.

If you are in need of quick cash, take all of these factors into consideration. When you decide which avenue is best for you, visit us so we can make you a fair offer and get you the money you need. At Central Mega Pawn in Ontario Ca we offer reasonable prices and are happy to walk you through the process of pawning or selling your items. With us, you can pawn or sell your items without worry.

If you are interested in buying or selling at a pawn shop but are unsure where to begin or are feeling intimidated by the idea of haggling and negotiating, we can help. As longtime members of the pawn shop community in the Ontario Ca area we have years of experience to draw on to guide you to success when it comes to negotiating with pawn shops.

How to negotiate when selling

First, understand the difference between selling and pawning items at a pawn shop. To pawn an object is essentially to take out a short-term loan against the value of that item. When your pawnbroker makes an offer on your item, you have a set number of days to repay and reclaim your item. If you do not pay, the shop can sell your item. There is usually not much room for negotiation when it comes to loans.

On the other hand, selling to a pawn shop is just that – you receive cash for your item with no agreement that you will reclaim your item, and without needing to repay anything. There is plenty of room for negotiation.

Before you visit the shop, do the following:

Prepare your item – before you visit the shop, make sure that whatever you’re selling is in the best condition possible. Clean it up, attach and adjust any accessories or strings and collect any paperwork that goes with your item.

Do your research – know the value of your item. Even if you think you have a good idea, look at completed sales on online auctions, and see what people are asking (and receiving) for similar items on Craigslist. You may be surprised.

Then, when you visit your local pawn shop, you can begin negotiations with the following in mind:

Have realistic expectations

Do not get offended if your pawnbroker can only offer around 50% of the value of your item. A pawn shop cannot purchase goods at full value because they will need to make a profit on everything they have on hand. They cannot take into account any item’s sentimental value, history, collectability.

Listen more than you speak

Unless they ask directly, your pawnbroker does not need (or want) to know where you found your item, how long you’ve had it, or how much you originally paid for it. In fact, disclosing too much information like this may only hurt you. What you’re really saying by sharing information like this is either that the item doesn’t mean much to you and that you aren’t really invested in how much you get for it, or that you are emotionally attached to it and are expecting to get an unrealistic price.

Additionally, although you’ve done your research beforehand and have a good idea of your item’s value, do not disclose it to your pawnbroker. It is up to them to determine that for themselves, as they must take into account the likelihood that it will sell.

Haggle gently

Let the pawn shop make the first offer. Even if they begin by asking you how much you want for it, insist on them going first. After the shop makes an offer, it’s acceptable and expected to ask for a higher price. However, don’t overdo it or you might end negotiations before they really begin. At most, you might get closer to 60% of the value of your item. If your pawnbroker can get close to that number, take the offer. But, if they are dead set on 50%, that may be the maximum. It’s okay to be confident and assertive but know when to back down. You can always decide to walk away and try again at another pawn shop.

How to negotiate when buying

As a bonus, here are 4 tips for negotiating when purchasing from a pawn shop. Buying at a pawn shop is a slightly different process. You hold more power when you are buying, but you should still do your due diligence and negotiate.

Do your research

Even when you’re on the other side of the transaction, you should still do your research on the type of item you’re interested in, or at least be knowledgeable about how much it usually goes for. Most pawnbrokers price their items fairly, but it is still a chance for negotiation.

Inspect the item

In most pawn shops, all sales are final, so you should ensure that the item is in excellent condition. Make sure that moving parts do so efficiently and that all the vital parts of the object are functional.

Make your offer and begin negotiating

A good starting point is around 80% of the asking price. On some items, especially things that they have a lot of stock of, you can also ask what the lowest price is they will accept and offer $5 – $10 less. They will come back with a counter offer, which you can take, or you can try to whittle down even further.

Pay with cash whenever possible

If you visit your local pawnshop ready to buy with cash, you’ll have better results at negotiating than if you pay with credit or debit. There are even still many pawn shops out there that operate on a cash only, or mostly cash basis. Almost all, however, will be interested in having plenty of money on hand to buy items and to make loans, i.e., to keep their business running smoothly.

Also, paying with cash will help you stick to your budget and makes good financial sense.

On either side of the equation of buying or selling, using these tips can make negotiation simple and maybe even enjoyable. If you have a positive attitude, are respectful of your pawnbroker and understand the fact that they are a business, not a charity, you’ll come out happy and ahead. You will either get some extra cash by selling something you no longer need, or you will get a reasonable price for something you wanted and will use. Visit our shop or call us at (909) 627-9622 today and see just how easy it can be to negotiate with a pawn shop.

Arriving at the decision to sell your loose diamonds can be a significant and emotional moment. Regardless of your reasons for doing so, the decision to sell should not be done on impulse or left to chance. Before you take the massive step of selling your loose diamonds, read our guide on your options, and how to maximize your return.

First, figure out where you will sell your diamonds. Although diamonds and other gemstones aren’t everyday commodities, there are lots of places willing to buy your diamonds. While some people take their chances with a direct online buyer, auctions, or consignment stores, an especially smart option is your local pawnbroker. A pawn shop may be more open to buying diamonds of varying value and quality and can get you cash in hand in minutes.

Next, understand that diamonds are not rare. Therefore, the value of your diamond may depend on what’s referred to in the gem industry as the “Four C’s”:

• Cut: Cut refers to the angles cut into a raw diamond by a craftsman. These cuts are designed to optimize the reflection and refraction of light through a diamond. Of the “Four Cs,” cut is usually considered the most heavily-weighed factor in determining a diamond’s value, as it dramatically influences the diamond’s and brilliance.
• Color: Color actually refers to a lack of color in a diamond. According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the diamond color scale ranges from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). This scale excludes unusual colors like pink, blue-green, yellow or red diamonds. If your diamonds happen to be one of these fancy colors, you’re in luck: fancy colored diamonds are becoming increasingly rare.
• Clarity: Clarity is a scale of imperfections of a diamond. The level determines the number, size, and location of the flaws relative to the size of the diamond and the resulting overall impact on the appearance of the stone. There are 11 potential grades, from “flawless,” which are extremely rare and valuable, to “included,” which has flaws clearly visible to the naked eye.
• Carat: This is the unit of measurement of the weight of diamonds. One carat weight is the equivalent of .02 grams; the value of a diamond increases sharply the bigger it is. You should keep in mind that the value of a diamond is based on the cumulative score of the “Four Cs”; carat weight alone will not tell you enough about the quality of your diamond to gauge its potential value.

If your loose diamonds are exceptional one or more in these regards, you may expect a higher price and increased interest from your potential buyer.

Understand your diamond and its value

You should know as much as possible about your diamonds before you attempt to sell them. Although it may cost you a little upfront, you should get them certified; certification is worth the investment because it will tell you the value of your gemstones. Being educated about your diamonds will put you in a position of strength when it comes time to haggle and can get you more money for them.

Research your potential buyer

Your diamond buyer should be knowledgeable about the gemstone market and should be willing to answer any questions you have about diamond buying and selling. Many pawn shops in your area may have a certified gemologist on staff or contract with one to do appraisals. Don’t be afraid to call around to find the right shop for you.

Don’t expect full value

While you might expect a cash offer of a significant percentage of your diamond’s worth, the fact of the matter is that you will need to adjust your expectations. Use the value of your diamonds as a starting point and aim for around 40 – 60%. Bring any certification, supporting documentation or paperwork to help you get the best offer. Your local pawn shop, or any buyer, for that matter, must be able to turn a profit on the items they buy and must take that into consideration when working with you.

But, don’t be afraid to haggle

Selling your diamonds to your local pawn shop will allow you to haggle on price, which is something you will not be able to do with most other buyers. However, many people shy away from negotiating or haggling, which doesn’t have to be the case. But you have more power and leverage than you probably think. If you approach your pawnbroker with respect, knowledge of your diamonds, and a realistic expectation of price, you can enter into peaceful negotiation and find a price that works for everyone. Most pawn shops are more than willing to haggle with customers and come up with a price both parties are happy with.

Don’t give into undue pressure

Trusting the buyer of your loose diamonds is essential. Selling your loose diamonds can be an emotional experience, and you may be especially vulnerable to making impulse decisions. Make sure you are not being pressured or being asked to agree to something that doesn’t feel right. If possible, bring along a trusted companion to look out for you. If something seems off, take a few days to consider your offer. A local pawnbroker like Central Mega Pawn will understand and will let you know how long their offer stands. They will never demand that you sell them your diamonds right there and then.

Be as objective as possible

We understand that selling loose diamonds can be a personal decision that may affect your whole family. But, to get the most much-needed cash in hand, you must remove as much emotion from the transaction as possible. Your local pawnbroker will not be able to offer you any additional money based on the history or sentimental value of your diamonds; getting a satisfactory deal will require you to keep your emotions out of the sale.

Selling your loose diamonds to your local pawn shop will get you the best return for your jewels. Our team of experts understands the second-hand market and will get you the best possible deal, getting you some much-needed cash in minutes.

Pawn shops are great places to find deals on a wide variety of items. From high-quality jewelry to power tools and everything in between, pawn shops are a great resource for buying and selling. They can also be an excellent resource when you are looking to sell your high-end fishing gear.

Fishing gear, such as reels, poles, and lures, are bought and sold just like any other item in the pawn industry. However, the price you can expect to get will vary depending on a few key factors. If you’ve got high-end fishing gear that is only taking up space and gathering dust, or if you could use some quick cash, keep reading to learn more about the factors affecting how much you can expect, and how to sell your fishing gear.

Quality and Condition

A huge factor in selling your high-end fishing gear is quality. Like lots of other items that come through your pawnbroker’s doors, the price they will offer depends a lot on its initial value. Your local pawn shop will consider the manufacturer, materials, and condition when appraising your gear. A pole that can be found for cheap at your local big-box store will probably not be desirable for most pawn shops.

However, custom pieces like poles or reels made by a highly sought after builder, or exclusive boutique items will command more money because the pawn shop will be able to charge a premium for it and can expect it to sell.

Of course, any gear you offer your pawn shop must be in working condition and should be as close to perfect and pristine as possible. Make it easy for your pawnbroker to sell your gear and you should walk away with a reasonable price.

Demand and Location

Pawn shops in land-locked areas where there are few opportunities for fishing will probably not be too interested in fishing gear, no matter how unique or functional. This is because the demand for fishing gear in that region is just not very high, and the shop will have trouble selling the items.

However, if you live in the Inland Empire or San Gabriel Valley, you’re not out of luck. There are many fishing opportunities in the nearby oceans, rivers, and lakes, all of which are an easy drive for the area’s many fishing enthusiasts. So, while demand for high-end fishing gear may not be as high as in places like coastal cities, there is a good chance that your equipment may still net you a reasonable price at your local shop.

Also, keep in mind that the time of year may affect your pawn shop’s ability to buy your gear. If it is the off-season, your pawn shop may not be able to buy your gear right away.

Accessories or Modifications

Fishing gear, especially the high-end stuff, can often feature sought-after accessories or modifications. If your gear happens to be in this category, be sure to keep on hand any authentication when selling.

Any documentation you can provide your pawnbroker that proves your gear is genuine and custom will help them give you a good price because it improves value. You may need to do some digging to provide your documentation, but it will be worth it when your pawnbroker offers you more than you expected.

Why You Should Sell to Your Local Pawn Shop

First, let’s admit that you have many options when it comes to selling your gear. Between auction sites, message boards and apps, there are several avenues for turning your used fishing gear into cash. So why choose your local pawn shop? Here are some compelling reasons:

• No one becomes an expert fisherman overnight. Many beginners are ready to upgrade their gear and want to do so slowly and with minimal investment. The savvy ones will consider their local pawn shop to try gear out and take the next step in their learning.
• Fishermen are always looking to try out new gear and find a bargain.
• You’ll avoid paying fees for shipping, listing, and insurance. Selling to a pawn shop gets you cash in hand in minutes.

How to Sell

Before you begin offering your gear to your local pawn shops, consider the following points.

• Do your research: explore message boards and online auctions to see what people are buying and what people are interested in. If you have popular gear, take note of how much people are paying.
• Clean your gear: particularly the gear that beginners might be interested in, such as:
  1. Rods or poles
  2. Reels
  3. Lines
  4. Hooks
  5. Baits or lures

  Your local pawn shop may be interested in keeping items like these on hand for beginning fishermen who find their way into their shops, and you can make your gear more appealing by presenting it as clean as possible.

• Learn how pawn shops work: keep in mind that at the end of the day, your local pawn shop must be able to turn a profit. They must be able to sell your gear to casual fishermen and experts alike and may not want to have a glut of inventory on hand. Don’t take it personally if they decline to purchase your gear.
• Negotiate: learn to haggle and don’t be afraid to walk away if the offer simply doesn’t work for you. Before you walk into the shop, you should be aware of two numbers: how much your item is worth, and how much you want to sell it for. Work with your pawnbroker to find a happy medium between these two numbers to keep everyone happy.

For all these tips, keep in mind that not all pawn shops will be interested in or knowledgeable about fishing and fishing gear. It may take you some visits to find a place that is truly speaking your language. We, however, are eager to make you an offer on your high-end fishing gear. Visit us today and let us make you an offer!

Music is a great hobby or career, but too often, many people think they need to shell out top dollar for quality equipment, while some believe that they are stuck with their instrument forever once they’ve taken their interest as far as it will go. This is far from the truth.

Whether for yourself, your child or as a gift, your local pawn shop is a great resource to get started in music, or a place to sell an instrument that is only gathering dust. You can easily buy and sell all kinds of musical instruments in a pawn shop, including guitars, drums, flutes, violins, even pianos.

Before you take the leap, however, there are some things you should know before buying or selling a musical instrument at your local pawn shop. Keep reading to find out what steps you should take to get the most for your dollar.

Selling

It can be a difficult decision to sell a musical instrument; for many people, there are a lot of emotions and memories attached, not to mention the tons of options of how to sell for a fair price. While some automatically turn to websites like Craigslist, there are many risks involved, such as finding a buyer who wants to low-ball or doesn’t appreciate the value of your item.

If you’re looking to get a fair price and quick cash for your instrument, a pawn shop is the logical choice. However, there are some things you should know. Whenever you sell something to a pawn shop, you must keep in mind several factors. When it comes to selling musical instruments, here are a few additional factors:

• Determine the base value of your instrument by searching recent completed auctions on eBay, or by taking it to a music shop and getting it appraised; this will give you a good idea of what to expect. However, don’t forget that a pawn shop cannot pay full value; they will need to make a profit on virtually every item in the shop. Expect around 40 – 60% of its value.
• Presenting your item with original packaging, a case, extra strings or other accessories can help you get a better deal. Track these items down before taking your item to your local pawn shop.
• Clean your instrument before bringing it in; the more attractive the item, the easier it will be for your pawnbroker to resell it.

Luckily, musical instruments tend to go quickly at pawnshops, and the more prepared you are when you go in to sell, the more likely it is that your pawnbroker will be willing to make you a deal. Also, they will be willing to negotiate; the more you know about your instrument, the better prepared you will be.

Selling your instrument to your local pawn shop is far less hassle than trying to unload your instrument on websites or apps; unregulated transactions like these take time and effort, and more often than not are frustrating experiences. On the other hand, selling to a pawn shop means dealing with helpful, knowledgeable professionals, and can get you cash in hand in minutes. Also, if you happen to change your mind shortly after selling, you can buy your item back.

Buying

Buying a gently-used instrument is perfect for the beginner musician or for trying out different instruments. You will keep your investment costs low, which you can then put into lessons or high-end accessories. Also, the low cost of buying used means that you can experiment with different instruments to find out which one is perfect for you.

Your local pawn shop is an ideal place to find your next instrument. It is wiser than buying online; while you may find slightly lower prices, you are taking a gamble on quality or, worse, on receiving stolen property. Pawnbrokers carefully inspect everything they have on hand, and deal only in reputable merchandise. Most pawn shops maintain a huge inventory of all kinds of musical instruments. While this means that you will have a variety to choose from, it also means that you must do your due diligence when purchasing your next musical instrument.

You should study the instrument carefully and make sure that it hasn’t been excessively refinished. While you can always restring a guitar or violin, for example, things like warped fret boards or cracked pegs are red flags. Additional warning signs for brass instruments are discoloration, rust, or broken hinges.

If you are able to, play the instrument a little in the shop. Be careful not to annoy your fellow customers, of course, but if you know how an instrument should sound, playing it a little bit can tell you a lot about the quality. This all goes back to doing your homework before heading into your local pawn shop. If you need to, you can always bring someone more knowledgeable as a guide; together with your pawnbroker, they can help you find the perfect instrument.

Some additional good news about buying your next musical equipment at your local pawn shop is that their vast inventory is usually made up of top brands, due to the large number of people who go-all out when buying musical equipment, only to end up pawning it down the line. Also, because instruments and accessories come and go fairly often, you can check back often if there is a particular item that you want. For example, one of the most commonly pawned items is an electric-guitar and amp combo; with a little patience, you may be able to score the exact combo you’ve had your eye on.

While some pawn shops specialize in things like jewelry, guns, or tools, most pawn shops will have a huge inventory of musical instruments. Chances are good that your local pawn shop is a musician’s playground. If you are in the market for an instrument, you owe it to your wallet to check out your local pawn shop. Come check out our inventory today.