One crucial thing to understand about Chicago pawn shops is that – like in most places – the goods on sale may have come from any number of places. It isn’t always clear where the items on sale originated, nor what their true value is, which can bring up a lot of questions when you’re shopping for something special.
Generally, that watch, ring or artifact you have your eye on could have been acquired one of three ways:
- From customers who went in to sell goods directly
- From someone who used the item as collateral for a loan
- As merchandise purchased from a retail store
The same kinds of questions should apply to anyone taking out a small loan in an unconventional setting. Before using your personal goods as leverage for a financial loan, you will want to be sure you know who you’re working with. The main reasons for vetting your pawn broker:
Because Pawn Shops Are a Unique and Less Understood Way of Doing Business
Pawning is a bit different from the usual way people buy and sell things. And even though most Americans are familiar with the drill, at least in theory, shopping at a pawn store is another matter. That’s why it’s vital to understand the more nuanced difference between a legitimate and well-reputed pawn shop and a shady operation that will be less than forthright with your questions.
So You Won’t Be Taken Advantage of When Seeking a Financial Loan
Perhaps the biggest incentive for shopping around is when you are seeking a short-term financial loan. There are multiple reasons. First, you want to avoid brokers who would take advantage of a vulnerable situation to scam you out of your money. But it’s equally important to know the value of the collateral you plan to use. Pawn shops typically base their loans on a percentage of the value of the items being leveraged, which emphasizes how important it is to trust the information you are receiving before signing any loan documentation.
To Avoid Red Flags: Pawn Brokers Must Control the Quality and Value of Goods
The folks behind the counters are not just cashiers and salespeople. They need to be a trusted partner who will give it to you straight – particularly if you’re taking out a loan, but also if you’re eyeing some interesting goods. For a taste of what can go wrong, check out any of the many video compilations online of questionable goods that the owners hoped would fly under the radar.
Such stories often shine a light on the crucial role of brokers in catching errors and protecting customers from wasting their money, while also protecting their goods and reputation. Some of the red flags a good broker will look for:
- Valuables that haven’t been authenticated
- Supposedly famous artwork with no paperwork to back it up
- Claims that are impossible to verify
- Forgeries and other suspicious merchandise
- Historical inaccuracies and imitation antiques
- Scam items with fake tags, brand names or signatures
- Imitation gold, gems or jewels being passed off as real
To Avoid Scammy, Low Quality Items Pawn Shops Shouldn’t Be Selling
Most retailers today are known entities. The products at a nationwide clothing store are going to be fairly consistent. Whether you shop online or in person, you can do your research beforehand and get the specs on a product so you know what you’re getting. It’s easy to do price comparisons, as well, for a sense of what other outlets are charging.
Pawn shops are another story. There are more variables from store to store, which places more emphasis on the consumer to seek out a business likely to carry legit merchandise that is in good condition.
Fullerton Pawners in Chicago Is Known for Fair Prices & Reputable Services
Most people would probably be surprised at the wide range of services that some pawn shops provide. The advantage of doing business with Fullerton Pawners is that we have a lengthy track record of buying, selling, and making loans on Chicago’s north side. As you begin your search for the right partner, be sure to stop by and find out what makes us more reliable than so many other pawn services.
Contact Fullerton Pawners online or call us at 773-637-9999 to get your questions answered today!