Those searching for cut-price deals may not see bargain buys from a pawn shop as their first port of call, but anyone with an eye on securing items for an excellent price should think again!
Why head to a pawnshop for a bargain?
Well-run and well-stocked pawnbroking establishments can literally be a treasure trove for those seeking to purchase a wide variety of items at cut-price.
The choice of goods is wide, varied and includes:
- Electronic equipment
- Fine jewellery
- Watches
- Musical instruments
- Power tools
- Bicycles
- Collectibles
- Artwork
- Antiques
Do your homework!
To get the best bargains it is necessary for you to do some research, but for those who enjoy unearthing items of use, value and some hidden gems this is one sort of homework you will thoroughly enjoy.
Decide upon what it is you are after and then research the brands, models and relevant data to meet your needs, trawl the internet to get average second-hand prices and then go pawn shop hunting.
You should be aware of brands that have a higher reliability factor, models which are ‘limited edition’, guarantee periods where relevant, and in terms of collectibles, artwork and antiques the names of artists who have carved, or are currently carving out a name for themselves.
Inspect items carefully:
We are all familiar with the term “one careful owner” in car sales ads, we should also be aware that not all such offers should be taken on word only!
If you see an item of interest in a pawn shop do not be afraid to examine the piece closely and ask questions. Also, be aware of any attachments or accessories you know came with the original purchase to see if these are included in sale package.
The truth is that not everyone looks after used items as well as others. Make sure your examination is thorough and that you are satisfied with your proposed purchase before negotiations begin in earnest.
Be prepared to bargain:
By default, pawnbrokers have stock that they need to move. A well-respected pawn shop will have no shortage of customers willing to sell their goods, or items left behind by those who have defaulted on a loan given.
Excess stock is to no one’s advantage. As long as a reasonable deal can be struck then both parties in the negotiation will be left satisfied with negotiations.
The purchase process could not be easier, cash is accepted on the spot, many pawnbrokers accept credit cards, and once payment terms are agreed you can walk away with your new-found bargain.
Don’t forget online pawnbroking services:
More pawnbrokers than ever before are offering online services with pictures and descriptions of items available.
Because it is far better to ‘touch, feel and see first-hand’, you may be wise to start with pawnbrokers in your local area. This is because once an item interests you, you can email your interest and indicate when you will visit the store to inspect the goods in question.
Of course, if you know exactly what you are looking for in terms of make, model and manufacture date, then you will feel more confident in making an online offer for said item.
Bargain buys galore:
Bargain buys from a pawn shop are in abundance. This makes it wise to pause your search at car-boot and garage sales and spend time visiting well-established pawnbrokers. The availability, range and quality of available goods will surprise many.