Skip to main content
#
Cash Express - Pawn Shop

Call Today: (215) 922-1560

our twitterour facebook page pintrest instagram

Blog

Thursday, February 23 2023
How Do You Report a Stolen Item to a Pawn Shop?

Pawn shops offer vital services to their communities. For bargain shoppers, they are a go-to stop for good deals and rare finds. For those who find themselves in financial distress, pawn shops offer an easy way to get money they need quickly and easily. Because pawn shops strive to offer a good deal to those bringing in items, people often fear that their stolen jewelry or electronics may end up on a pawn shop's shelf. Let's look at what you should do about reporting your stolen items and the steps pawn shops take to protect consumers.

 

How Do I Report Stolen Items?

You don’t report stolen items to a pawn shop. If you've had anything stolen, whether from your home or vehicle, at work, the gym, or from your personal space, it's important to file a police report. Your local law enforcement agency has the resources to investigate the theft, find the perpetrators, and recover your items. You can also report the loss to your insurance company in some situations (which often requires a police report as well).

 

What Steps Do Pawn Shops Take When Buying Items?

Pawn shops take steps to help ensure that they don't inadvertently purchase stolen items and cooperate with local law enforcement. They require photo ID for loans and direct sell transactions. Pawn shops often ask questions about the products and ask for paperwork that proves ownership, such as original receipts, certificates, or warranty information.

 

Most pawn shops also report their transactions to local law enforcement. This ensures that if something stolen does wind up in a pawn shop law enforcement can reference police reports with listed items. This information often includes serial numbers, model numbers, brands, and descriptions of the items.

 

Can You Recover Stolen Items?

If your stolen items do find their way to a pawn shop, you can recover them. It's important that you file your police report as soon as you find your items missing with as much information as you can provide. The more information that police can potentially match with pawn shop records, the more likely it will be that they can find your items.

 

Steps for recovering your items once police locate them will depend on our case. Law enforcement will advise you on when and how to recover your items once they're located.

 

Feel Secure with Cash Express Pawn Shop

Cash Express is here to meet your needs. Whether you’re looking for a gift, something unique, or need fast cash, contact us today or stop by with the items you're looking to pawn or sell.

 

Posted by: AT 01:18 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Friday, February 10 2023
What Happens if I Don't Reclaim My Items from the Pawn Shop?

Selling or pawning items at the pawn shop is a good way to get fast cash for emergencies. However, when you pawn your items, it's important to know how the process works and what happens if you can't repay the loan. Let's look at the important things to remember about pawning your items for fast cash and ensuring you get your valuables back.

 

How Does Pawning Work?

The local pawn shop is a good place to get a loan because you don't have to have good credit (we don't check credit), and you don't have to fill out mountains of paperwork. You just need your ID and your items. While you can take extra steps to strengthen your negotiation when you bring in your items, the process itself is simple.

 

Pawn loans are also short-term, usually 30 days. So you don't have a loan hanging over your head for months or years. Get your money, take care of your emergency or immediate need, then repay the loan. Not only does this save you the stress of monthly payments, it means that you have room to take future loans if you have another emergency without worrying about paying off existing loans.

 

What Happens When the Pawn Loan Comes Due?

When your loan comes due, you have a few options. The preferred option is to pay off the loan (principal and interest charges) at that time and reclaim your items. It's best for you - you save future fees and interest charges and get your money back. It's also best for us - you're happy because the transaction is complete, your needs are met, and you have your items back.

 

Sometimes, however, you can't repay the loan after 30 days. You may be surprised to learn that this doesn't mean you have to forfeit your items. We know sometimes it takes a little longer to recover from a financial emergency. You can pay the interest due and extend your loan another 30 days. This is more costly over time, as you'll need to pay a new loan fee and will accumulate additional interest. However, if you need extra time, it is an option that ensures you can reclaim your items later.

 

 

What Does the Pawn Shop Do If I Can't Repay the Loan?

If you can't repay the loan, the pawn shop will take possession of the item you used to secure the loan and put it up for sale. While this means that you lose the item, this action doesn't harm your credit. If the item is important to you, you can come in to purchase the item like you would any item from the pawn shop. In some cases, you may be able to reopen the loan later if the item doesn't sell.

 

How to Ensure You Get Your Item Back

It's important to remember that while the pawn shop operates to make money - they need to pay their employees and expenses after all - they're also in business to satisfy customers. That includes their loan clients. If you're happy, you'll do business with us again and maybe even recommend friends or family.

 

To ensure that you're happy with your pawn loan experience, remember,

 

  • Don't take a loan for more than you need and can pay back. Even if you can get more money for an item, make sure that you don't take more than you can reasonably pay back.
  • Consider carefully what you bring in to pawn. The best item to pawn isn't necessarily the most valuable item. It is the item that will get you the money you need. If you have a choice between something with sentimental value or something you're willing to part with, choose the latter.
  • Consider selling the item outright. If you have items that you're willing to part with, consider that as an option to taking a loan. You get the cash you need (sometimes a little more than you would get for pawning), and you don't have to worry about repaying the money with interest.
  • If you’re having trouble getting the money to repay your loan, call the pawn shop. We can let you know what options you have for extending your pawn loan so that you can pay back the loan and get your item back.

 

Do You Need Fast Cash in Philadelphia?

Cash Express is here to meet your fast cash needs. Contact us today or stop by with the items you're looking to pawn or sell.

Posted by: AT 01:02 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Saturday, January 28 2023
Is It Safe to Buy from a Pawn Shop?

Is it safe to buy from a pawn shop? It's a question we hear a lot here at Cash Express. As a company, we strive to ensure that our customers and community understand how we do business and the laws that govern our practices. We've talked about the history of pawn shops, how we're regulated, and common myths for that purpose. Let's revisit that and answer the question: are you safe doing business with us?

 

Why People Worry about Pawn Shops

The myths we've discussed before are usually the most common reasons people feel they need clarification on pawn shops. They believe we aren't regulated, deal in stolen goods, and rip people off, for example. These are valid concerns and something you should keep in mind any time you do business with any retailer or individual.

 

You want to ensure that you get,

  • Excellent quality merchandise
  • A price that is fair and within your budget
  • Merchandise that was obtained fairly and equitably

No business can guarantee each of these things. Your big-box megastore, for example, has no control over the working conditions of coffee growers or how tech companies work with overseas factories. However, small businesses have more power to negate some of these risks, including pawn shops.

 

Providing Quality

At Cash Express, we're careful about the merchandise we purchase or make loans against. We inspect electronics and other equipment to ensure they're in working order and have little or no damage. We make sure that jewelry and antiques are authentic. Our desire is to have merchandise you want to buy, after all.

Fair Pricing

When we purchase items, we have two goals in mind. First, we want to settle on a price that allows us to make money while selling the item below the retail price. Second, we want to offer a price that will make the seller happy so that they meet their needs and do business with us in the future. We treat each person who comes into pawn or sells items like a potential buyer. If they're happy, they'll come back and perhaps recommend us to someone else.

 

By keeping in mind what we can afford to pay for items, we, in turn, ensure that we can sell them at fair prices. Pawn shops offer buyers two advantages: buying under retail and finding out of circulation or rare items. In both cases, we want to give you the best price so that you become a regular customer.

 

Laws and Regulations

The other fear people have is that they may purchase stolen items or that we're operating by our own rules. The latter often goes hand-in-hand with worries about pricing. Pawn shops have a number of regulations we operate under to ensure fair and equitable business practices. While every pawn shop differs in some ways, such as what items they specialize in, all reputable pawn shops follow these regulations.

 

Pawn shops have a reputation for dealing with stolen goods, mostly due to television and movies. In truth, we make every effort we can to ensure that the person we're purchasing from is the rightful owner of an item. If we suspect something is stolen, we'll refuse to purchase it and contact law enforcement.

 

It's about more than not selling stolen goods. By not buying stolen goods, we limit where thieves can take items for cash and have a small part in making communities safer.

 

Are You Looking for a Good Deal in Philadelphia?

Cash Express is here to meet your needs. Whether you’re looking for a gift or something unique, or need fast cash, contact us today or stop by with the items you want to pawn or sell.

Posted by: AT 03:43 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Saturday, January 14 2023
How to Negotiate When Selling to a Pawn Shop

Whether you're looking to pawn a few items for an unexpected expense, sell some older things you don't need, or buy something special, it's important to come to Cash Express Pawn Shop prepared to do business. We not only want your business, but we also want you to be happy with the experience you had. So, here's what you should know about negotiating at a pawn shop (here or anywhere else).

 

Is It Okay to Haggle at a Pawn Shop?

The short answer is yes. The long answer: it's part of the pawn shop culture. Pawn shops want you to come in prepared to haggle because it tells them something very important: the items you're pawning or selling have value. Remember, a pawn shop is a business. That means if you're bringing in items to pawn or sell, they must look at their potential to recoup their investment (in reselling the item if you are selling it directly to them or if you default on your pawn loan).

 

What to Know Before You Come into the Pawn Shop

Before you come into the pawn shop, it's important that you're prepared. When you decide to come in to sell or pawn your items,

  • Decide ahead of time if you're pawning or selling your items. Sometimes you can get more for selling items because you save the pawn shop on paperwork (for the loan) and time (in having to hold items or follow up with you).
  • Know the regulations that affect pawn shops. Knowing these laws will help you get a good deal and know that you're dealing with a reputable shop. You can also check with your state and the Better Business Bureau to ensure that your pawn shop is up to date and doesn't have complaints against it.
  • Research the value of items you're selling. Know what your items are worth before you come in to negotiate prices effectively.
  • Know what the pawn shop is likely to buy. Pawn shops will vary what they sell by location because local demand differs from place to place. However, most pawn shops usually prefer,
    • Precious metals, such as coins and jewelry
    • Watches
    • Electronics
    • Tools
    • Musical instruments and gear
    • Antiques
    • Small appliances
    • Sports equipment
  • Contact your local pawn shops ahead of time to find out what they specialize in and ensure that you know what they'll need when you come in.
  • Visit the pawn shops you're considering selling to. Ensure that the prices are fair and that staff are attentive and listen to and answer questions.
  • Prepare your items and yourself to come in.
    • Clean, polish, and, if needed, repair any items before you come in.
    • Make sure that you bring in your valid, state-issued identification.
    • If you have documentation that proves ownership of items, brings that in with you.

jewelry

Negotiating with a Pawn Shop

Once you're ready to enter the pawn shop, you must know how to negotiate effectively. You've prepared yourself and your items. Now it's time to get a good deal.

  • Remember that pawn shops expect you to haggle.
  • Introduce yourself and make a good impression. Don't be aggressive or standoffish. A friendly demeanor goes a long way in negotiations.
  • Consider visiting more than one shop. Remember, pawn shops often specialize in certain items. If you want the best price for items, that may mean going into more than one shop and dividing your items and shops by specialty.
  • Don't expect full value. How much of the value a pawn shop is willing to pay will vary by the shop and type of item. 40% is a reasonable expectation. If you want 50% of the value, give them a reason to pay it (excellent condition, fast sellers, etc.).
  • Don't volunteer information. The pawn shop will ask you questions about the items to establish that they're yours and determine their true condition. It's important that you establish your ownership of the items (otherwise, they can't buy from you). However, don't offer information that will give them an advantage in negotiations, like where you bought the item or how much you paid for it.
  • Let the pawn shop make the first offer. Never name your price first. Let them make the offer, then counter with something higher. Remember, don't counter with the true value. Instead, counter with something higher than what you’re willing to sell the item.
  • You get more from a win-win. Remember, a pawn shop is a business, so they need to be able to make money from items you sell to them. If you want more than half the value for an item, make sure that it's something that is in high demand and that it's in ready-to-sell condition.
  • Be ready to walk away. If a pawn shop isn't willing to give you what you want for your items (setting honest expectations for what you can get when selling), then be ready to walk away. A pawn shop may have any number of reasons for not being willing to buy an item at a certain price. Maybe they're overstocked or know the item doesn't sell well in the area. You can always try another shop.

Do You Need Fast Cash in Philadelphia?

Cash Express is here to meet your fast cash needs. Contact us today or stop by with the items you want to pawn or sell.

Posted by: AT 03:18 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Thursday, December 22 2022
Is It Worth Searching Pawn Shops for Christmas Presents?

It's that time of year. You're getting your Christmas shopping done and ask yourself the same question every year. Is it worth going to a pawn shop for Christmas gifts? 

The simple answer is yes. Of course, if the simple answer were enough to convince you, you'd already be in our store. So, let's examine what makes a pawn shop a good choice for your last-minute Christmas shopping. 

Big Deals on Gifts

Pawn shops offer deals on all kinds of popular gift products. Whether you're looking for electronics, tools, jewelry, or designer items, we can save you money compared to what you'd spend in retail stores. Saving money means you can put a few more gifts under the tree. You may find a good deal on a significant advantage you didn't think you'd be able to get this year. 

You Can Find Unique Gifts at Pawn Shops

People bring all kinds of items to pawn shops. You can find popular electronics and other gifts, and sometimes you can find things you can't find in retail stores anymore. From antiques to unique jewelry, if you have someone hard to shop for or what a special gift, you can find something at your local pawn shop. 

You're Supporting Local Business

When you shop at your local pawn shop, you're shopping at a locally owned and operated business. If you're fed up with the business practices of big-box stores, the local pawn shop is a good option. Remember, when you support local businesses, you're not just supporting that business. You're supporting the network of businesses that they, in turn, work with as well. 

Low Prices Aren't the Only Way to Save Money at Pawn Shops

Do you have electronics, tools, designer bags, or jewelry that you just don't use anymore? The phone you recently replaced, the laptop you just upgraded from, and the jewelry that is sitting at the bottom of your jewelry box can all work for you this Christmas. You can bring them to your local pawn shop and sell them for cash you can use in-store or anywhere you want. 

Are you still attached to some items? Your jewelry and other items can still work for you. You can pawn them for a temporary loan, giving them extra money for Christmas. Once you pay the loan back, you get your items back. 

Are You Convinced that Your Local Pawn Shop Is the Place This Christmas?

Let Cash Express help you get through the holiday season. Whether you're looking for a unique gift or need extra cash, we're here serving Philadelphia. If you have questions, stop by or contact us today.

Posted by: AT 01:37 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Wednesday, December 14 2022
3 Reasons to Visit a Pawn Shop This Holiday Season

It's the holiday season. You have your list, and you've checked it twice. Consider your local pawn shop as you rush out to get your holiday gifts for friends and family. Here are three reasons you should visit us this season. 

You Can Find Unique Gifts

While your loved ones have specific things they want - maybe your child has their heart set on a particular toy - sometimes you want to find something unique. You may be looking for exceptional jewelry for your partner. Perhaps you'd like to find a nice antique for your parent or grandparent. Because pawn shops carry a wide array of items, you can find things that you won't find anywhere else.

From jewelry that the major stores don't carry anymore to antique furnishing and collectibles, your local pawn shop has a large selection of rare, unusual, and even one-of-a-kind items. You can even find musical instruments and electronics at an affordable price!

Pawn Shops Offer More Than One Way to Save on Holiday Shopping

This time of year, we're all looking for ways to save money on our holiday shopping. Pawn shops offer great prices on the products. However, that's not the only way they can help you save. 

Do you have electronics, jewelry, or other items that you don't need anymore? You can bring them in to sell for extra holiday gift money. Whether you're buying gifts at your pawn shop or elsewhere, you can bring in the items you don't need to sell for the cash to help you get through your holiday list. 

Our Loans Can Help You Through the Holiday Season

What if you did your holiday shopping early? Gifts aren't the only expenses you have to manage this time of year. Whether it's party planning, getting ready for a trip, or just wrapping up end-of-the-year bills, the holidays can leave you strapped for cash. 

A pawn loan can be just the thing to help you get through the season's many expenses. Bring in your jewelry, electronics, or other items as collateral for a loan to give you the extra cash you need. The best part, you can borrow without worrying about a credit check or hassle. Best of all, if you pay your loan in time, you get your valuables back later. 

What happens if the unexpected occurs and you can't repay the loan? If something happens and you can't repay the loan, you can just surrender your items to the pawn shop to pay the loan instead. No hassle. No marks on your credit report. 

Do You Need Extra Cash for the Holidays?

Let Cash Express help you get through the holiday season. Whether you're looking for a unique gift or just need extra cash, we're here serving Philadelphia. If you have questions, stop by or contact us today.

Posted by: AT 01:28 pm   |  Permalink   |  Email
Thursday, December 01 2022
Pawn Shop vs. Garage Sale

Pawn Shop vs. Garage Sale

Over time, we collect things. From knick-knacks to abandoned power tools, these extra items take up space and add to the general clutter in our home. They build up dust and collect cobwebs. Sometimes, they even get in the way of new items we need and want for our homes. When you have extra clutter in your home, you have options. You can throw out unwanted items. You can also turn those items into cash with a garage sale or take them to a pawn shop. Which is the best option for you? Let’s break it down. 

Garage Sales

Sometimes called “rummage sales” or “yard sales,” garage sales take place when a resident sells personal and home items they no longer need. They may hold the sale in whole or part in their garage or carport or utilize the driveway or yard, hence the various names. Garage sales are popular for both sellers and buyers for a variety of reasons, including, 

  • Ease of set-up. Typically, you need a table or two, boxes to hold items you sell, and open space in your garage or outside. 
  • Low advertising needs. A few signs around your neighborhood in the few days before your yard sale are usually all you need to bring people to your sale. 
  • Bargain prices. Most sellers offer deeply discounted prices for the items they’re selling, which are often still in good condition. 
  • Rare prize finds. We’ve all heard stories of people finding rare items at garage sales at discount prices. Often people holding garage sales aren’t collectors, so they’re not looking for high prices for rare items they might happen to have. 

Pawn Shops

Pawn shops have been a popular way to offload unneeded items for centuries. They have even funded human exploration. Pawn shops offer homeowners the option of pawning items for a loan or selling items outright. As a result, they can get the fast cash they might need for their home while clearing away unnecessary clutter. The advantages that pawn shops offer those decluttering their homes include, 

  • Better prices on high-value items. Most people don’t carry much cash to garage sales, and many cannot accept credit card payments. As a result, most homeowners must keep their garage sale prices low. On the other hand, Pawn shops can make better offers for high-value items like jewelry and electronics. 
  • Option to sell or borrow against items. Your garage sale sales are final. Your pawns, however, don’t have to be. If you have high-value items that hold sentimental value but need fast cash, you can pawn the item for a loan instead of selling it – allowing you to recover it later. 

Which Is Better, the Garage Sale or the Pawn Shop? 

Because both pawn shops and garage sales have clear advantages, it may be hard to choose which you should use for decluttering your home and getting extra cash. The secret is you don’t have to choose. 

Consider the advantages we looked at above. Garage sale buyers are looking for deep bargains and often don’t carry much cash for yard sales. Meanwhile, pawn shops actively look for high-value items they can feature in their shops, including jewelry, electronics, and power tools. That means the excellent pawn shop vs. garage sale debate is less about which is better and which is better for the item you want to sell. 

Your everyday items, such as used toys from your children, partial dish and silverware sets, and simple knick-knacks, are likely to do well in a garage sale. These are the kinds of items people go to garage sales for. Meanwhile, a pawn shop will pay a fair price for unused electronics, old jewelry, and collector’s things you don’t want or need anymore. 

Are You Looking for a Pawn Shop in Philadelphia? 

Stop by or contact us today. We’re here, serving Philadelphia and surrounding areas.

Posted by: AT 11:34 am   |  Permalink   |  Email
Thursday, November 17 2022
Tips For Buying a Used Computer

Whether you're looking for a new computer to work from home, a gaming system, or just a tiny laptop to read email and browse the internet, you have two things in mind. You want a good, dependable computer that meets your specific needs. You only want to spend what you need to. A used computer can be just what you need but buying a used one presents additional challenges. At Cash Express Pawn Shop, we want you to feel confident with your computer purchase, so here's our guide to get you started. 

Will a Used Computer be as Good as a Cheap New Computer?

The simple answer is yes if you shop for the specifications you need. It can be better. How?

Computer technology continues to advance quickly, so consumers who like to keep up with the newest processors and graphics cards often discard only a couple of years old systems. Meanwhile, manufacturers who want to capture the budget-conscious market have been putting out new computers that are often well below industry standards for memory and speed over the past several years. 

This means you can get more for your money by buying a used computer over a budget-friendly new one. 

What to Look for When Buying a Used Computer

Now that you know the value of purchasing a used computer let's look at what you need to do to ensure you get the system you need. 

Brand Matters

When buying a used computer, it's best to stick with the big computer brands Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Apple. While smaller brands offer good computers, you'll have an easier time with any upgrades or repairs if you stick with the bigger brands. 

What Are Your Requirements? 

When shopping for a used computer, it's essential to ensure the system you get meets the requirements you need. The most important things to consider are:

  • Processor - for primary use, 7th generation or newer Intel Core processors (i3, i5, or i7 followed by a number in the 7,000s or higher) is good. For more advanced users, you want a 10th-generation or higher (i5 or i7 followed by a number in the 10,000). AMD Ryzen processors from the 3k, 4k, or 5k series are also suitable for high-demand usage. 
  • Memory - For most web browsing, 4GB RAM is perfect. For professional apps like Adobe or gaming, however, you want 8GB ram. In either case, make sure you can upgrade the RAM if needed. 
  • Storage - SSD (solid state drive) hard drive is preferable for storage memory. For basic browsing, 64 GB - 128 GB will do well. Gaming and professional apps, however, need at least 256 GB. For browsing and most professional use, you can get more space with an external hard drive. However, if you're gaming, look for more memory, as an external hard drive often slows gaming performance. 
  • Display - If you're purchasing a laptop, ensure you can get an IPS display with 1080p. Your graphics card is essential if you're gaming or doing visual graphics, so make sure it meets the requirements for your games or apps.

Are You Looking for a Used Computer in Philadelphia? 

Buying a used computer can be an excellent way to save money while getting the system performance you need. If you're looking for your next desktop or laptop, stop by or contact us today. We're here, serving Philadelphia and surrounding areas.

Posted by: AT 11:55 am   |  Permalink   |  Email
Wednesday, October 19 2022
Myths about Pawn Shops- Debunked!

If you need fast cash or are looking for a unique gift, your local pawnshop can meet your needs. However, those who have ever been to a pawn shop may find themselves hesitant to use them due to myths they've heard. If you're unsure about our services because of myths, never fear. Let's debunk some popular myths so you can visit your local pawn shop or us without worry. 

Myth 1: Pawn Shops Charge Really High-Interest Rates

One of the biggest myths is that pawn shops charge exorbitant interest rates and fees. Cities and states regulate what rates and fees pawn shops can charge. In our home state of Pennsylvania, interest rates are subject to the guidelines that banks follow. That means our Philadelphia customers can borrow at their local pawn shop, knowing they'll receive reasonable rates. 

Myth 2: Pawn Shops Follow Their Own Rules

This myth has a few variations, but they all boil down to the myth that pawn shops are a "wild west" industry where the rules are made up, and regulations don't matter. Suppose you're familiar with the history of pawn shops. In that case, however, you know that pawn shops are one of the most highly regulated industries in America, with licensure requirements at the state and city level. 

Myth 3: Pawn Shops Buy/Sell Stolen Items

This myth often goes together with Myth 2. Pawn shops do everything they can to avoid buying and selling stolen goods. Many pawn shops work with local law enforcement to help track stolen goods, partly because thieves often still think they can get away with pawning items.

Myth 4: Pawning Is Complicated and Frustrating

This is an interesting myth because it's false, but it's not surprising people believe it. Getting a loan at a pawn shop is easy, especially compared to many other loans. You don't have to bring your financial statements; we don't check your credit. You don't have to worry about co-signers. 

So, where does the myth come from? Mostly, the myth comes from people believing myths 2 & 3, not realizing that pawn shops are highly regulated, and taking steps to prevent people from pawning stolen items. They arrive unprepared, so the experience seems complicated. 

You can keep your pawn shop visit simply by, 

  • Coming with your state-issued photo ID
  • Ensuring that you clear dirt from items you plan to pawn
  • Bring any documentation that might come with your item (like instruction books, certificates, etc.)
  • Loo up the value of the thing you want to pawn so you're prepared to ask for the amount you want

That last tip brings us to the final myth we're going to examine here:

Myth 5: Pawn Shops Rip You Off

Like the second myth, this one encompasses a few different ideas. Some variations of this myth say that pawn shops will try to undercut you on what your items are worth, and other versions say that you won't be able to get your items back. 

Pawn shops succeed when they have a good relationship with the community. A reputable pawn shop like Cash Express isn't going to rip you off because if you're unhappy, you won't come back - and you won't recommend us to your friends and family. When you pawn an item at Cash Express, we take good care of it. It'll be here when you pay off your loan so you can take it back home with you. 

Remember, you only lose your item if you default on your loan. Make sure when you pawn your items, you borrow more money than you can pay back in the loan terms.

Have We Debunked All of Your Pawn Shop Myths?

If you need extra cash? Let us dispel other myths – such as the myth that pawn shops sell cheap items – by showing you our beautiful gold jewelry, designer purses, and quality electronics. Stop by or contact us today. We're here, serving Philadelphia and surrounding areas.

Posted by: AT 10:15 am   |  Permalink   |  Email
Wednesday, October 19 2022
How Are Pawn Shops Regulated in Pennsylvania

Have you ever found yourself needing extra cash for bills or an emergency? Do you have items that you don't use anymore but are too valuable for a yard sale or to throw away? You may have considered a pawn shop but think about how they're often depicted on television and in movies. Maybe you don't trust your local pawn shop. It's an excellent time to look at how pawn shops are regulated in Pennsylvania to give you peace of mind. 

A Historical Institution

To understand how pawn shops are regulated, we should touch on the history of pawn shops. They have been around since ancient times and operated as an essential part of their economies. From ancient China and the middle east to medieval Europe, pawn shops helped to fund businesses, expeditions, and people. 

The nature of how pawn shops operated brought suspicion over time, and many suspected them of purchasing stolen goods, a belief that endures to this day. Starting in the 18th century, governments in Europe and the Americas began applying more stringent regulations to pawn shops that helped shape rules today. 

How Are Pawn Shops Regulated in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania pawn shops are regulated by 12 federal laws and Pennsylvania's Department of Banking and Securities Bureau of Licensing, Compliance, and Investigation. To be a pawnbroker, a pawn shop must have a Pennsylvania Pawnbroker's License.

License Pre-Requisites

To apply for a pawnbroker's license, a pawn shop has to meet numerous requirements. These requirements are, 

  • Capital Requirement: A pawnshop needs starting capital of at least $10,000 per pawnbroker office (location).
  • Posting and Publishing of Notice: Before the shop ever opens, they have to place a public notice at the location where it is easily seen and read.
  • Public Hearing: They must participate in a public hearing that they are responsible for paying the cost of and must advertise to the public. 
  • Bond Amount: The potential pawn shop must include a $2000 bond with the application. 
  • Criminal Background Check
  • Credit Check
  • Tax Certification
  • Policies and Procedures: A summary of these must be submitted. 
  • Annual License Fee: Separate from the bond above, the new pawn shop must also pay the yearly license fee.

Starting any business takes time and capital. Pawn shops have additional requirements brought on by history and their responsibility to their communities. Pawn shops help people in the district meet their financial needs through loans and purchasing goods. 

Do You Need Extra Cash in Pennsylvania? 

If you need extra cash? Let us dispel other myths – such as the myth that pawn shops sell cheap items – by showing you our beautiful gold jewelry, designer purses, and quality electronics. Stop by or contact us today. We're here, serving Philadelphia and surrounding areas.

Posted by: AT 10:07 am   |  Permalink   |  Email

Latest Posts

Archive

Cash Express  • Philadelphia Pawn Shop

731 Chestnut St. Philadelphia, PA 19106 -  (215) 922-1560