Do you recall when pawn shops were something out of a TV melodrama and the subject of hushed whispers, something you might only go to if you absolutely had to? Thanks to reality television, the reputation of these businesses has received a serious face-lift. Now, everyone imagines a helpful, banter-loving owner and the thrill of scoring a diamond in the rough. And although it is indeed the case that pawn shops can be treasure houses of serendipitous discoveries, they are ultimately businesses established to purchase and sell secondhand items. As with any second-hand market, caveat emptor buyer beware applies in a big way.
Yes, you may find yourself with a bargain that makes your money dance, but everything shiny in a display case isn’t necessarily worth your money. A sweet price can conceal underlying problems, making what appeared to be a bargain a pricey headache. To spare you from remorse, here’s the ultimate guide of things you should never, ever buy at a pawn shop.
1. Laptops and Computers
Snatching up a laptop for half its original price may seem like brilliance. until you arrive home and learn the battery doesn’t hold a charge, keys are sticky, or worst of all, the computer is infested with spyware. Pawn stores typically only verify that it turns on, and behind that lies a universe of other problems that can’t be seen.
Throw in the breakneck pace of technological progress, and that “deal” computer could already be outdated for installing new software. And if it’s stolen? You might end up with a machine that’s remotely bricked or gets you in trouble with the law. Bottom line: with no guarantee and lots of liability, you’re better off purchasing new or certified refurbished.
2. Cell Phones
Phones are one of the most pawned items out there and one of the riskiest. Many end up on pawn shop shelves because they’re stolen or blocklisted, meaning they’ll never work on major carriers again.
Even if it’s not shoplifted, you might inherit a cracked battery, water damage, or old technology that doesn’t support today’s apps. And in contrast to purchasing from your carrier, pawn shop phones have no warranty. For something that’s become our lifeline, risking a pawned phone is never worthwhile.
3. Video Game Systems
That slim-looking console may work in the shop, but the problems come when you connect it at home. Overheating, dodgy disc drives, or bug-ridden performance can make your “bargain” into disaster quickly.
The safer bet? Purchase from a retailer that guarantees and refurbishes such as GameStop or certified sellers. They play test, fix, and warrant their systems, providing you with a sense of security that a pawn shop simply can’t match.
4. DVD and Blu-Ray Players
Electronics with moving parts are risky, and disc players are no exception. A skipping laser or broken tray means you’ll be staring at the dreaded “disc error” screen more than your favorite movie.
And honestly? With streaming dominating home entertainment, these devices have little value left. A brand-new player costs just a bit more and comes with a warranty, making pawn shop models a poor investment.
5. Jewelry and Watches
Jewelry cases are a staple of pawn shops, but they’re also a minefield. Unless you’re an expert appraiser, you might overpay for bottom-shelf knockoffs or gold that isn’t as pure as suggested.
Even authentic pieces might not be certified, which can complicate resale. And let’s be honest some folks are uncomfortable about wearing someone else’s engagement ring or watch with an uncertain history. If you have an eye for fine jewelry, opt for certified jewelers or estate sales where authenticity is assured.
6. Vacuum Cleaners
Yes, vacuums can be expensive fresh off the shelf, but a used one from a pawn store? No thanks. Not only are they hulking mechanical beasts with hidden faults waiting to happen, but they also have an irrepressible ick factor. You never know what allergens, pet dander, or worse is hiding in those hoses and filters.
For something that’s going to clean your house, a used vacuum is likely to transfer germs and dust. Shell out the extra cash for a new, sanitary model.
7. Mattresses
This one’s a no-brainer: never purchase a used mattress. You have no idea what it’s been through, and the possibility of bed bugs, mold, or other unpleasant contaminants is extremely high.
Even without the crawly component, older mattresses break down eventually, and you’re left with aching backs and terrible sleep. Your health and well-being are worth a heck of a lot more than whatever dollars you’d save.
8. Guns
Yes, guns do find their way into pawn shops, but this is one department where prudence isn’t a choice. Regulations differ from state to state, and some stores might not play by the books, leaving you vulnerable to legal liability.
Worse still, you might inadvertently purchase a stolen or faulty gun a blunder with potentially lethal ramifications. When it comes to firearms, purchase only from qualified dealers who adhere to rigid safety and legal regulations.
9. Tools
A half-price saw or drill may be too good to be true, but some pawned equipment is already nearing the end of its life. Destroyed motors, bent blades, or stripped gears may leave you stranded in the middle of a project.
And as with other pawned items, tools can be hot, so you might inadvertently find yourself caught with stolen property. For dependability and peace of mind, use new or certified used tools from reputable hardware stores.
10. Luxury Designer Goods
The fantasy: a Louis Vuitton tote for pennies on the dollar. The reality: a good imitator that comes apart at the seams within a matter of months.
Pawn stores hardly ever have luxury goods experts on board, so authenticating designer brands such as Chanel or Rolex is all but impossible. If you want designer, buy from certified pre-owned sellers who include authentication documents not a pawn counter with best guesses.
11. Perfume and Makeup
That discounted perfume or eyeshadow collection may be an impulse fun purchase, but expired or fake makeup can do harm. Expired products become weaker and cause rashes or infections, and fakes can contain unregulated (and unsafe) substances.
Your complexion is worth a gamble-free secondhand guess. Always purchase cosmetics from reputable dealers where safety and freshness are assured.
12. Baby Cribs
When it comes to baby gear, safety isn’t optional. Cribs made before 2011 don’t meet modern safety regulations and could pose serious hazards like drop-side rail collapses.
On top of that, you’ll never know if a pawn shop crib was recalled, modified, or assembled incorrectly. For something as critical as your baby’s sleep, buying new from a regulated retailer is the only safe choice.
13. Ancient Media Players (VCRs, VHS, Cassette Players)
Unless you’re a collector, skip it. Cassettes and VHS tapes are all but dead in the streaming era, and most units on pawn shop shelves are already obsolete.
Even assuming they play, you’re buying technology with no future. Spend your money on new gadgets that actually improve your entertainment rather than taking you back to 1995.
14. Legally Problematic or Stolen Items
Lastly, the ultimate red flag: anything stolen or illegal. Pawn shops have to report items to the police, but sometimes items fall through the cracks. If you buy something without realizing it’s a stolen item, cops can take it away and you can end up in hot water legally, too.
Vehicles or high-priced items may have liens as well, so creditors still have a claim on them. That “deal” might get you into a financial or legal nightmare. If something doesn’t feel right, back away.
The Takeaway
Pawn shops are not entirely evil they can be enjoyable treasure hunts, and you may get good bargains on a few things like musical instruments or collectibles. But with regards to things that involve health, safety, legality, or advanced technology, the dangers always surpass the benefits.
So the next time you meander into a pawn shop, have fun browsing just remember this list. Armed with knowledge as your defense, you’ll sidestep expensive errors and reserve your dough for the real treasures. Happy (and wise) shopping.
