The All Sports Blog

When you take something that you own — such as some used sporting gear — to a pawn shop in order to turn into cash, your chief priority is always to get as much money for the item as you can. Pawn shop staff members are experienced negotiators and will work with you to hopefully make a deal on the item at a price that makes you both happy. You can expect there to be a bit of back-and-forth negotiation, so empowering yourself with these tips can make you feel more confident to hopefully get the price that you want.

Don't Provide Your Purchase Price

One of the negotiation tactics that you'll want to use is not providing the purchase price of the item. If you state the price at which you purchased the item, the negotiation becomes more difficult for you, as it's likely that you'll end up getting less money than you spent on the item. However, if you don't divulge this information, the price that you and the pawn shop employee will agree upon can be a lot more flexible, hopefully giving you a price that makes you content.

Do Some Research In Advance

Taking some time to research your item's value can increase the likelihood that you're able to get the price you want. Browse the results of online auction sites, which often keep listings on sold items up for a period of time after the sale. This will give you hard evidence, which you can print out and take to the pawn shop with you, of these sale prices. Don't make the mistake of solely considering the asking price of similar items online; remember, an asking price isn't the sale as the price at which an item is sold.

Show That You Mean Business

If you're nervous about haggling back and forth, simply take the approach of deciding in advance what you want for the item and being honest about it — and don't be afraid to say that you're not interested in a long negotiation. While you might agree to have a little wiggle room, the negotiation process can be quicker and easier if the pawn shop employee knows that you're not afraid to walk if a price can't be met. For example, if you want $75 but will take $65, say you're looking for about $75. If the other side offers $70 or $65, you can take the deal; otherwise, you can leave and find another pawn shop.