When you’re looking for affordable items or want to get rid of some of your clutter, you may wonder about the best route to go. There are distinct differences between a pawn shop and a garage sale. Once you have more information, you can make the best choice for your situation.

The Garage Sale

Alternative names for a garage sale include a yard sale, a moving sale, and an estate sale. No matter the name, this is a way to either sell the things you no longer want or need. You can also find a bargain there.

 

As you probably know from seeing garage sales in your travels, they are not “organized” events vs. a Pawn Shop’s display, like ours at Cash Express. Buyers must be willing to comb through the good, looking for treasures. Some people make a whole day of foraging with a friend.

 

To get the best deals at a garage sale:

• Bundling. A seller is likely to give you a deal on several items vs. one. Say the seller has books for $1 each. If you buy ten, you can offer $7-8 for the bundle.
• Keep count of prices. It’s much easier to negotiate when you know the total of the goods heaped in your arms.
• Offer less than you are willing to pay. This gives you wiggle room in the bargaining process.
• Don’t become attached. If you can’t reach a reasonable price, prepare to walk away. For example, if someone is selling a dining room table for $300 and you know full well you could buy something similar for the same price, why buy used? You offer $150, and they won’t budge much over $50; you’re better off buying new.

Selling

 

Sellers must be ready to watch the goods all day long, have change on hand, and answer questions. Sometimes you have to haggle (it’s part of the fun). To garner excitement about your fete, check local newspapers, as some will carry an ad for your event. Signs and flyers are an alternative, but always ask before you put them up.

 

Not everything you want to rid yourself of has value, so consider that in choosing what to offer. A slightly smaller garage sale lets people see more of what you laid out. You don’t have to mark each item. Let a buyer make an offer. You might be surprised.

Pawn Shop vs. Garage Sale

If you are selling at a garage sale, you don’t have the option of pawning an item as a temporary way of getting cash fast.  There are probably items in your home that you could pawn when money gets tight. With a storefront, you don’t have to worry about the weather and can find what you want far quicker.

 

You won’t want to take dozens of items into a pawn shop, so focus on things that have a higher value. At Cash Express, we typically seek gems, jewelry, antiques, collectibles, electronics, coins, and designer clothing/accessories. If you want a loan vs. selling the item outright, avoid sentimental items if you cannot repay your loan on time.

 

At a garage sale, there is no opportunity to have your higher-priced items appraised. You may sell something way under value. At our pawn shop, our professionals can provide accurate pricing. Fairness matters. So you can buy, sell, trade, or pawn your item knowing you are working with great prices and quality goods.

How can We Help You?

Cash Express is the number one pawn shop in Philadelphia, PA. We pride ourselves in serving our customers promptly, with a positive attitude. We have expertise in antiques, diamonds, and precious metals.

 

Want more information? Use our online contact form or:

 

By Phone: (215) 922-1560

Through Email: info@pawnphiladelphia.com