We talked last week about the various places you can sell your jewelry, and how a pawn shop is the best place to go if you’re looking for fast cash. While pawn shops may give you less for the item than selling it direct, you don’t have to accept whatever they offer. Not only are there a few tips for getting the best price, there’s also room to haggle. Here’s some selling dos and don’ts.
1) DO visit online reviews of pawn shops in your area to see if there are any that specialize in the type of jewelry you’re selling—and also to check their reputations.
2) DO be mum about the item’s origins. The dealer doesn’t need to know how cheap you found it at a garage sale, and certainly that you know how much it’s worth.
3) But… DO know how much it’s worth, and decide before you walk into the shop the minimum you’re willing to accept for it (bearing in mind that pawn shops are middleman, and will need to resell for a profit—this will almost always mean a lower than even wholesale price).
4) DON’T make the first offer. You might know how much it’s worth, but it’s the pawn broker’s job to know, too. Don’t help him with his job.
5) DON’T be afraid to walk away, for any reason, and try another pawn shop in Loudoun, VA. Or, after hearing what you’re being offered, you may reconsider selling online.