Do you cringe at the sight of all the items in your spare bedroom that you just don't use anymore? From an old iphone and tablets to that camera you just had to have, you're now using your spare bedroom as a storage container. I mean, you've considered selling them but the hassle of having to take photographs, posting them online and deal with phone call after phone call, just doesn't make it worthwhile. So, you rather close the door and choose to deal with it another day.

How about pawning your unused items?

You've thought about it, but you don't know how pawn shops work and what they would even accept. To be more confident when you walk into a pawn shop, it's best to get a general idea of what to sell. Sit back, relax, and read on as we educate you in everything and more that can be sold at pawn shops.

Pawnshops serve two functions for people wanting to get money fast, namely pawning and selling. If you pawn an item you are borrowing money from the pawnshop and using your item as collateral. Once you pay back the money, you get your item back. Selling as we all know it is obtaining money in exchange for an item.

Pawnshops also provide an easy outlet for consumers to sell items immediately for cash, as opposed to selling them on Gumtree or Facebook Marketplace.

Before you find yourself pawning everything you own for cash, or using them as collateral, knowing the best things to pawn can help you strategize. Pawnbrokers determine the value of items on a case-by-case basis, however there always some firm favorites that earn top cash.

Pawnshops will most-likely take on anything that they will be able to re-sell. Provided that the item is in good condition, doesn't take up too much space or have an expiry date, there's a good chance they'll take it.

Anything from jewelry, electronics, musical instruments and equipment, firearms, bikes, DVDs, and more.

The best things to pawn at a Pawnshop

Jewelry

Have an engagement ring to sell after a horrible divorce? Jewelry is one of the biggest money-makers in the pawn industry. Precious metals such as gold, silver as well as gems like diamonds are easy to pawn because they appreciate over time and pawnbrokers will often pay well for these items.

Computers, Laptops, and Phones

Computers, smartphones, tablets, and laptops are all easy sales. Many people have spare electronics lying around which can be exchanged for cash at your local pawn shop. Depending on the brand, condition of the item, and whether you have the owner's manual, charger, and original packaging, you could be in for a great payday.

Electronics

Digital cameras, Go Pro devices and LCD TVs are all in-demand items that sell well at pawn shops. To get the best offer for these items to make sure your items are as current as possible. Once again, any packaging, accessories, and manuals that you're able to offer will get you a better deal.

PlayStation/ X-box console and games

Prices vary from store to store, however, if you have one of the latest consoles, it's a sure way to get some money quickly.

Vehicles

Some pawn shops accept cars, bikes, boats, trailers, and caravans as collateral for loans. Make sure you have all paperwork in place as well as your ID document and proof of insurance.

Power Tools

Power tools consistently have good resale value and are a popular item being pawned. Whether you have a drill, circular saw, air compressor, or even a set of screw-drivers in good condition, these could get you the cash you so desperately need.

Tip: Make sure your tools are well maintained and thoroughly cleaned before visiting the pawnshop.

Firearms

Firearms are one of the few items in a pawnshop that retain their value. Provided you have all the necessary paperwork, make sure you call ahead to make sure the shop is licensed to buy and sell firearms.

Krugerrands coins and gold

Those interesting gold coins you have been collecting over the years might be worth more than you know. Coins are interesting because they are valued differently depending on certain factors. Date, country of issue, rarity and demand, and of course condition all play a factor in determining the value of a coin. In some cases, they are valuable because of the gold used, in other cases, it's because they are a collector's item.

Gym and sport equipment

Those golf clubs, bikes, and even surfboards you have lying around that never get any action can also get you some cash. Isn't that a nice surprise?

Antiques and Collectibles

Often found in quite a niche and up-market pawn shops, antiques and certain memorabilia hold a lot of value. Although your granny's old arm-chair won't bring in millions, you never know what treasures your storage container holds.

Next time your spare bedroom becomes a little too cluttered, take a trip to your nearest pawn shop. You'll be able to make some fast cash for items you no longer need. You might even surprise yourself and find a few new treasured items.