With gas prices skyrocketing, food costs climbing and wages lagging, many families are living paycheck to paycheck in Tampa. WUSF focused on one way some people are making ends meet—selling or pawning their items to pawn shops.

It’s 2pm on a Thursday at A-Universal Pawn shop in Egypt Lake-Leto. The shop is busy, but not as packed as it has been lately. Shop owner Rick Evans and his mother sit in matching gray recliners to catch their breath before the next wave of customers arrive. Find out valuepawnandjewelry.com

A pawn shop is a business that allows people to borrow quick funds secured by pledged assets, like jewelry and musical instruments. The borrowers retain ownership and sentimental value of the item while being able to access much-needed cash. The pawnbroker will store the item until the loan is repaid (plus fees, which can include insurance and storage). Then, the shop will sell it to get its money back.

Pawn Loans Made Easy: What You Need to Know

The average pawnshop loan lasts 30 to 60 days, and the interest rate is usually much lower than credit cards or payday loans. In Florida, pawnbrokers are required to record serial numbers on items pawning customers bring in and to provide that information to law enforcement upon request.

But not all pawn shops are created equal. Some pawn shops offer higher values for your valuable items than others. And some even have the ability to loan against designer pieces that are rarely offered in a pawn shop setting. For the best value for your items, choose Diamond Banc.