Pawn shops are retail businesses that buy and sell items. If you're looking to sell something, you can sell it directly to the pawn shop for a final price, or you can pawn it, exchanging your item for a small loan. As a buyer, you can go to a pawn shop to find plenty of deals on everything from jewelry to collectibles and antiques. Whether you're looking to buy or sell, there are some important things to keep in mind to ensure you have a quality experience.

3 Steps for Buying & Selling at a Pawn Shop

1. Research

Whether you're buying or selling, you should go into the pawn shop with an idea of what others have paid for similar items. Find pieces online that are in similar condition and use that as a starting point for your pricing strategy.

When selling, you need to have an idea of the lowest possible price you'll take. When buying, set a budget for the items you plan on purchasing.

2. Clean & Polish

If you're selling or pawning an item, you want the pawn broker to offer you the highest possible price. However, they won't offer you much if your item looks old, dingy, or damaged. Before heading into the shop, give it a nice clean and polish if possible. You might even want to look into small, inexpensive repairs if there's an issue that could impact the item's usability.

3. Negotiate

Pawn shops aren't like traditional retail stores with prices that are set in stone. It's okay, and often even expected, for both buyers and sellers to negotiate prices with brokers. To get the best deal, go back and forth with your broker to find a price that's reasonable for both sides. However, when selling, you'll need to keep in mind that pawn shops aren't going to pay the same prices as collectors, since they need to resell your items at a profit.

If you’re looking for a trustworthy pawn shop where you can buy and sell, head to A Happy Pawn in Honolulu, HI. Based in Chinatown, this pawn broker offers fast cash and competitive rates to those looking to sell gold, jewelry, and diamonds. They also provide a wide selection of in-demand items, from laptops to collectibles. In business since 1988, this pawn shop is a member of the Better Business Bureau and is known for providing the best possible rates to customers. Visit their website to see a full list of their services, or call (808) 383-5253 to speak with a pawn broker.