BlogFriday, January 26 2024
When you’re short on money and hoping to pawn something to fill the gap, at first, it seems hard to choose. However, there are certain things most pawn shops always want, including quality watches. At Cash Express, we review watches when they come in and come up with an appraisal. The Appraising ProcesThe checklist for watches being considered for pawning goes something like this:
Then, of course, there’s market demand. Like fashion, one year, a specific watch will be a “hot” commodity, and another year not so much so. If you have a popular watch, it will help you at the pawn store. What Does Your Broker Want?It’s worth making a call to individual pawnshops to see what they’re currently buying. It will save you a lot of time. It’s also worth taking time to educate yourself about your watch so you get a feel for how it’s selling elsewhere. As an aside, you do not have to sell your watch out-right. Rather, you can use it for collateral to help with short-term financial struggles and pay it back over the allotted time. There are no special credit checks, making things go much more quickly. Examples of Popular Watches for Pawning
About Cash ExpressThere is a reason that Cash Express is the number one pawnbroker in Philadelphia. One of our specialties is high-end watches. We have an online contact form you can fill out to find out if your property is something we’re looking for right now (saves you a trip). You can also email us at info@pawnphiladephia.com, or call our office at 215-922-1560. We look forward to serving you. Wednesday, January 10 2024
There is no definitive answer, as if you can sell clothing to pawn shops. Some places won’t even look at clothing because it takes up a lot of inventory room. Plus, the condition of clothing must be prime, and, if possible, a name brand.
At Cash Express, our experience indicates that, unlike jewelry and tools, clothes can take a long time to sell. Clothing styles change in the blink of an eye. Assessing clothing also proves challenging based on wear and tear.
Don’t be wholly discouraged. You can sell clothing to some pawn shops successfully. In some instances, it can be a great way to clean out your closet and get some extra cash. What Pawn Shops Don’t Want in Clothing.In order to sell clothing to pawn shops successfully, it helps to know some of the key reasons the establishment might say “no.”
How to Sell Clothing to Pawn Shops SuccessfullySo what DO pawn shops accept in the way of clothing based on their target market?
Look at your clothing with a discerning eye. Think like another person might if they were looking at the item. If you can put yourself in those shoes, you make better choices about what to pawn. Pawning vs. SellingThe only real reason to pawn your clothing is if you don’t mind not having the item for a while and you’re looking for fast cash that you can repay in a specific amount of time. With your wardrobe, outright selling might be the best idea. The only downfall here is that you may receive a lower amount than pawning. Tip: Avoid pawning or selling items with sentimental value. You may regret this decision in the future. Contacting Cash ExpressIf you are uncertain whether or not we are taking specific items, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We can give you our requirements and let you know if we might be interested in seeing the piece(s). Our telephone number is 215-922-1560. You can also email us at info@pawnphiladephia.com or use our online contact form to find out if your property is something we’re looking for right now or to ask questions. Our trained staff is ready and happy to be of service.
Wednesday, December 27 2023
In a review of Cash Express’ history, one of the most common goals is raising $500. Before you start looking through your goods, remember that you can bring more than one item to reach your $500 goal. Sometimes, that bundle is much easier to assemble vs. finding one BIG item.
When you think about pawning, there are a couple of important matters to know. For one, not all stores take all goods. Try to find an outlet that’s a “one-stop shop” instead of having to run around. If you’re not sure, call ahead and see if the shop is looking for items like those you currently have.
Here is a list of potential items pawnshops accept:
About Cash Express Our specialization is providing loans on jewelry, watches, precious metals, and gems. You can see some of our selection here, at our showroom. Our staff is well trained and service-oriented. We have appraisers on-site for things like gems, rings, and designer items. This and our amazing selection make us the #1 pawn shop in Philadelphia. Email us for information, or call (215) 922-1560. Thursday, December 14 2023
Thinking about purchasing a musical instrument from a local pawnshop? At Cash Express, we have people coming in regularly seeking a good instrument at a reasonable price. When you shop, there are things to watch out for so you can make the best deal possible.
Your evaluation is essential. If the piece needs considerable restoration, that’s a point for negotiation (what will you have to pay for repair after purchase?). By the way, if you have any items you want to pawn (sell), you can use that value toward your purchase. Start there so you know how much you have in ready cash. About Cash Express In the pawnshop industry, reputation matters. The positive feedback we consistently get from our customers is one of the reasons we’re the #1 pawnshop in the Philadelphia region. When you come to our shop, you can expect friendly, knowledgeable staff who are happy to answer your questions. More importantly, we strive for satisfaction. There is no hurry to jump into a purchase if you’re uncertain. There are three ways you can get in touch with us for further information: Phone: (215) 922-1560 Email: info@pawnphiladelphia.com Online Contact Form Sunday, November 26 2023
At Cash Express, one of the things we constantly purchase is Smartphones of all makes and models in good working condition. If you’re in the market for a more affordable device, we have nine tips to help you shop smart.
Our inventory at Cash Express changes daily. Our gallery gives yo a peek at new items. However, to see our whole stock, make a visit to our Philadelphia, PA, store. Take your time and shop around. You can call beforehand (215) 922-1560, email: info@pawnphiladelphia.com, or use our online contact form for more information. Thursday, November 09 2023
Pawn shop loans are a type of short-term secured loan where borrowers can use their personal possessions as collateral. Here's how pawn shops like Cash Express’ loans work and when they may make sense: How it works: You’re stuck and need money quickly. If you want to secure a pawnshop loan, bring in an item of value, such as pottery, coins, watches, electronics, or jewelry, to the pawnshop. If you’re unsure what things the pawn shop may want, look at their online catalogs for inspiration. Or, call the store and ask about “hot ticket” items currently. Once you’ve picked out your collateral and arrived at the store, the pawnbroker (or a skilled professional employee) inspects the item, assessing its worth and offering a loan. The amount is based on a percentage of its value, typically around 25% to 60%. Expert tip: Avoid any items with strong emotional connections. If you lose that piece, you’ll regret it. You now have a choice to make. Do you accept the loan terms? If so, there is an immediate receipt of the cash and a pawn ticket, which is evidence of the loan. The loan period is typically 30 days, during which the borrower can repay the loan with interest and redeem their item. What happens if you cannot pay? The pawnbroker may sell the item. However, many store owners will reach out before then and try to work out new terms with you. You can also inquire, explaining the circumstances. When They Make Sense:Pawn shop loans can be beneficial in certain situations:
b. Quick Cash: Pawn shop loans provide immediate access to funds. If you need money urgently to cover unexpected expenses or short-term financial hardships, a pawn loan can offer a fast solution. c. No Risk of Debt: Unlike traditional loans, pawn shop loans are collateral-based. If you cannot repay the loan, there is no direct impact on your credit score, and you won't accumulate additional debt since the collateral is used to secure the loan. d. Negotiable Terms: Pawn shop loans often have more flexible terms than traditional loans. The loan amount, repayment period, and interest rates can often be negotiated with the pawnbroker. The DownsideConsiderations: While pawn shop loans can be helpful in certain situations, there are a few factors to consider:
Getting a LoanPawn shop loans, like those we offer at Cash Express, can be a viable option for those needing quick cash, especially if they have poor credit or require a short-term solution. You can call us at 215-922-1580 if you have any questions about how to proceed. You can also use our contact form to open discussions on particular items. Thursday, October 26 2023
Pawn shops are one of the best places to find authentic jewelry without breaking the bank; however, you need to ensure that you can tell the difference between fake and real jewelry so that you pay the right price for the right piece. Luckily, there are a few tips and tricks of the trade that you can use when shopping to assess whether or not the jewelry you found is real or fake! 1. Research Average PricingThe price tag on a piece of jewelry can tell you a lot about the quality. Of course, cheaper pieces are usually fake or plated, whereas more expensive pieces will often be the real deal. Sadly, if a price seems too good to be true, that’s probably because it is, and you’re looking at a fake piece of jewelry as opposed to a real one. Also, if you are searching for a specific piece, such as a gold chain or a diamond ring, it’s a good idea to do a bit of research ahead of time and find out how much a quality piece costs. That will help you determine which jewelry you see at the pawn shop is real and which is fake. 2. Look for HallmarksA “hallmark” is an official stamp that marks a real gold or platinum piece of jewelry. Not all pieces have them, but they are fairly common, and if you do find one, you’ve likely found an authentic piece of gold jewelry. The hallmark is usually visible on the inner band of the ring or on the clasp of a bracelet or necklace; it will show a number from 1 to 999 or from 0k to 24k. 3. Feel the WeightReal gold and silver jewelry is much heavier than fake pieces. In fact, an expert hand can even tell which pieces are simply gold-plated and which are pure gold throughout. To get used to the weight of the jewelry, try holding onto a piece you know is made completely of precious metals such as gold or silver and then holding one that is simply plated. You’ll be able to tell the difference in no time! 4. Assess the ColoringIt’s important to understand that real gold never tarnishes, even over long periods of time. It may be dirty or less brilliant, but real gold will never actually be discolored, and it would certainly never turn your skin green. A great way to assess jewelry in a shop is to bring a soft polishing cloth with you when you go; if you can gently rub off any dust or dirt, it is far more likely to be real. Here at Cash Express, our knowledgeable staff knows the difference between fake and authentic jewelry, so you don’t have to be an expert! We will show you which pieces in our collection are fake and, therefore, much cheaper and which are real, authentic gold, platinum, gemstone, or silver pieces that you’re going to love! Monday, October 16 2023
Whether you plan to hold on to your vintage jewelry until you leave it behind in your will to your loved ones or you’re thinking about someday selling it, it’s absolutely essential that you take care of your antique jewelry to keep it looking beautiful. Luckily, there are just 5 easy steps to follow to take fantastic care of your beloved vintage jewelry. 1. Remove Any Dust With a Soft BrushThe first step is to use a soft brush to remove any dust particles. If you don’t have a soft brush on hand, you may want to invest in one, as jewelry-cleaning brushes must be exceptionally smooth. Even with the perfect brush, it’s still vital to remove the dust extremely gently so as not to scratch the jewelry. 2. Choose the Right Cleaning ProductNext, you need to select the right cleaning product, and not all jewelry cleaners are made the same. The chemical composition of different metals means they need different types of solutions, so make sure you do your research first. Gold JewelryWhen it comes to antique gold jewelry, you need a cleaning solution that contains plenty of water and ammonia. However, while ammonia is necessary, it can also be dangerous. Therefore, it’s important not to leave the cleaning solution on too long. Because ammonia is so strong, we don’t recommend making your own solution, but instead, you should purchase an ammonia cleaning product specifically made for gold or platinum. Silver JewelryAll silver vintage jewelry can and should be cleaned with a diluted baking soda solution. In this case, you can make your own at home; just make sure you follow instructions to ensure you use the proper measurements. Once you have the solution ready, be sure to apply it gently, as silver is not nearly as strong as gold or platinum. Jewelry with GemstonesCleaning antique jewelry with gemstones is slightly more complicated than working with gold or silver jewelry. For example, some gemstones, such as diamonds, sapphires, and rubies, are extremely strong and can handle an ammonia solution, whereas others cannot. Therefore, it’s important to research how to clean the specific gem you’re working with to keep it brilliant and safe. Vintage PearlsIf you have a set of vintage pearls, the best way to clean them is actually to wear them. Your skin's natural oils will ensure the pearls stay vibrant and beautiful. You can also use a soft cloth and a few drops of olive oil, but make sure to only rub them gently and infrequently. 3. Use a Soft Cloth to CleanOnce you have the perfect cleaning solution ready for your vintage jewelry, it’s time to actually use it with a soft cloth. Apply a small amount of the solution directly to the cloth and rub the jewelry delicately until it shines clean. The cloth can be damp but certainly not wet. And if there are a few hard-to-reach places, you can use a Q-tip with a bit of water and a cleaning solution as well. 4. Dry & PolishAfter your jewelry is sparkling clean, it’s time to use another soft cloth to dry the piece thoroughly. Any residual liquid could cause serious and lasting damage, as moisture is one of the worst things for antique jewelry. You can also take a little extra time to polish your jewelry with a special polishing cloth to make it shine even more. 5. Store in a Dry Location & RepeatFinally, it’s essentially that you store your vintage jewelry in a cool, dry location without moisture. You should also continue to clean your antique jewelry every few months to ensure it remains in the perfect condition for whatever it is you want to do with it. Now you have all the information you need to protect your new vintage jewelry from Cash Express Pawn Shop or to make sure the jewelry you have is clean and beautiful to be enjoyed or sold! Wednesday, September 27 2023
Pawn shops are a great place to find hidden treasures. But you can’t always be sure how much the items are worth- unless you do your research. This article will tell you how to identify items of significant worth in pawn shops to ensure a rewarding shopping experience. Look for Designer NamesA designer name is a telltale sign of an expensive item. Some designers are worth more than others. Research in advance so you are familiar with who is who. Some designers have their names blatantly displayed on items. Other designers are more discreet. They may carve their names onto the bottom of their goods. Inspect carefully to get an idea of their value. Ask for a Certificate of AuthenticityDesigner names will give you an idea of how much an item is worth. But beware. Many manufacturers make knockoffs and try to pass them off as the real thing. A certificate of authenticity will help you determine if an item is genuine. Original receipts have a similar purpose. Know What Valuable Jewelry Looks LikeThere are several ways you can tell if jewelry is valuable. Precious metals should be inscribed with hallmarks as follows: · Gold will have a hallmark that represents its karat weight, such as 14K, 24K, etc. · Silver has a sterling or 925 hallmark · Platinum will be inscribed with the word platinum or ‘plat’ Precious gems also have specific characteristics that vary according to the stone. Stones set in precious metals are typically genuine. Do Some Research to Learn About Valuable Timepieces and AntiquesThe internet is an excellent resource for determining valuable goods—research to learn about discontinued models. Rarity often increases the value of an item. You should also learn about iconic design and historically significant pieces. Look for unique characteristics that tell you what era the item is from. Older goods are generally more valuable. Learn about different artists and manufacturers to determine which pieces are valuable. If you are interested in coins, look for mint marks, engravings, and historical context that can add to a coin’s worth. Check the ConditionThe condition of an item will affect its value. Inspect items closely to check for signs of damage. Old, rare items may be somewhat damaged. But if a piece is highly damaged, it may not be worth purchasing. Electronics are DifferentPawn shop shoppers will generally look for older items that have gained value over the years. But electronics are an exception. Newer electronic items tend to be more valuable. Ensure you are purchasing the latest electronics. Test them so you know they work. Some electronic items have aged and gained vintage appeal. But, for the most part, it’s best to shop for newer electronics. Philly Pawn Shop is a Great Destination for Valuable ItemsPhilly Pawn Shop specializes in high-end antiques, jewelry, and watches. We have a wide selection of valuable items at affordable prices. We provide friendly service. We are also a top destination for loans. Contact us online or visit our shop to learn more about our terrific deals. Thursday, September 14 2023
Pawn shops are great places to find bargains. Many people have walked out of pawn shops with items they always dreamed of owning purchased at a fraction of the cost. Others bought goods that worked in the shop but stopped functioning days later. When you buy at a pawn shop, you take a risk. But there are ways to get around those risks. This article will explain how to buy pawned items with confidence. Look at ReviewsMost modern businesses have online reviews that indicate what type of service they offer. Pawn shops are no exception. If a pawn shop has mostly good reviews, they likely sell reputable items. If the pawn shop has negative reviews- stay away. Ask for DocumentationSome pawn shop items collect documentation from sellers that reveal the item’s condition. For example, they may provide you with receipts or warranties that are still current. They may also offer certificates of authenticity for designer items so you can tell you’re not buying a knockoff. If the pawn shop doesn’t have paperwork readily available, ask for it. Try Out the ItemsIf you purchase an item with a specific function, try it out in advance. Plug-in electronic items to see if they work. Demo tools and musical instruments to make sure they do their job. Look at the Item CarefullyTake your time looking at the item you are purchasing. Make sure it is not stained or damaged. The last thing you want to do is take it home and find out it’s not in good shape as advertised. Ask for a DiscountSome pawn shops are known for overcharging their customers. But many are prepared to haggle. Try to get a lower price for the items you purchase. This strategy will ensure that you don’t overpay for pawnshop goods. Ask About Return PoliciesDon’t assume that items you purchase at pawn shops are not returnable. Many pawn shops have return policies. But it’s essential to find out what the policy entails. For example, some pawn shops only accept returns for recently purchased items. Others won’t refund items unless you have a receipt or the original packaging. Find out about the shop’s policy to ensure you get your money back if necessary. Only Work with Licensed Pawn ShopsA pawn shop’s license means it must comply with federal and state laws. A licensed pawn shop will be less likely to rip you off. Most pawn shops will have their licenses hanging in their locations. They may also have their license numbers on their website. If you don’t see proof of a license, ask the shop for documentation. Philly Pawn Shop Express Carries Items You Can TrustPhilly’s Pawn Shop Express is a business you can count on. We have a long history of serving our community. We are your go-to shop for high-end goods like jewelry, watches, and antiques. We offer service with a smile. Come into our shop or visit us online to learn about our great deals. |
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