Looking to sell an item that you own but don't know where to go? There are some clear differences if you are thinking between selling on an online platform like Facebook Marketplace or going to a local Pawn Shop and getting a price. First, we will start with some of the advantages of Facebook Marketplace and then offer some reasons for both.
Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace has become the clear leader in person to person sales of personal goods. 10 years ago most were using Craigslist but Facebook offers an easier platform to use on an app that many more users look at daily. Whether you are selling a home, car, play station or TV, these can all be posted easily on the App and reach hundreds of people in minutes. Facebook is a place for many casual sellers as opposed to Ebay which requires an account and the need to ship online. Facebook is also often a place that most resembles a market value price for an item to be able to sell. This means, if you want to get the best price for a play station, Facebook Marketplace is often one of your best options to be able to use easily and communicate and meet up with people to be able to sell your item. People also make extra income from buying items like at garage sales or thrift shops and resell on either Facebook Marketplace or Ebay.
Pawn Shops
Pawn shops offer competitive rates for many items but a lot of times do not provide the best up front price. In fact, Pawn Shops will buy many items but then go to Facebook Marketplace to sell an item. So why go to a Pawn Shop? Well first, if you have something that is specialized like diamond jewelry or a designer handbag, it is going to be hard for the casual buyer or seller to authenticate the item. This makes many item transactions difficult to be able to be done on Marketplace. For instance, if you are wanting to sell a Louis Vuitton handbag, many pawn shops will have authentication software in their store and be able to provide a better price than many individual buyer. Secondly, people don't always want to meet up with a stranger to sell an item. If someone is selling a TV on Marketplace, they list it online for the pick up location to be at their house. This becomes problematic for some and would rather go to a business to sell with a reputable entity. Authentication, meeting with a reputable business instead of a stranger, and receiving fast cash instead of listing an item for potential days or weeks are often the reasons most decide to use pawn shops instead of Marketplace.
Closing
Ultimately, there are differences in using a Marketplace like on Facebook or selling a used good at a pawn shop. Think carefully about the item you have and choose which option is the best for you. If you have time to wait and don't mind meeting up with someone you don't know Facebook Marketplace is often a great choice. Rather, if you have a specialized item like a designer handbag, firearm, or diamond jewelry, Pawn Shops will provide the expertise needed to be able to determine a fair price. I hope this helps you understand the difference between the two options. Feel free to send us an email by going to our contact page if you have any questions about this article.