We recently caught up with Joseph Barats, owner of Fullerton Pawners, to learn more about his role in the family business, how the shop has evolved over the years, and what he believes has contributed to its long-standing success. Joseph discussed their strong community ties and other qualities that continue to set Fullerton Pawners apart.
When did your family first get you involved in this line of work, and what roles have you had over the years?
JB: My dad started the business back in 1994. I officially joined in 2005, but honestly, I grew up in the business. As a kid, all you see is people coming in and out—buying, selling, taking loans—so you’re always learning in the background. Today, it’s just me running things with a small team.
What do you attribute the business’s lasting success to?
JB: Honesty and integrity, above all else. Paying top dollar, being trustworthy and reliable, and simply being there when people need you. Good business hours matter, too. A lot of our success comes from word of mouth and name recognition, and being family-owned really resonates with people. We’ve seen generations of customers. Watching people grow up and later doing business with them as adults is pretty special.
What does the store look like today? What can people expect when they walk in?
JB: It’s a small, cozy showroom. When you walk in, you’ll see jewelry, electronics, musical equipment, video games, and all kinds of interesting knickknacks on the walls. Sometimes there are items we forgot we even had. That’s part of the fun.
People come in to shop, to sell, or to borrow money. If someone brings in jewelry, we’ll evaluate it on the spot and X-ray it for purity and assess market value. We use an XRF spectrum analyzer to determine the metal and purity, whether it’s gold or platinum, and calculate value based on current market prices. The process is fast and transparent.
We also use diamond testers to determine whether stones are natural, lab-grown, or synthetic. We always start by examining pieces carefully. Though we don’t love being the bearer of bad news, honesty is important.
Our favorite items include jewelry, watches, coins, bullion, antiques, old musical equipment, and modern electronics. Bullion is especially strong right now. A lot of people come in with old jewelry boxes that have been sitting around collecting dust—and they’re often pleasantly surprised.
Are there misconceptions about pawn shops that don’t apply to Fullerton Pawners?
JB: Definitely. We’re extremely competitive buyers. In some wealthier areas, people actually make less because there’s less competition. Being near other buyers forces us to stay competitive, which benefits customers.
Another misconception is that pawn shops are unfriendly or intimidating. We’re very down-to-earth, normal people. A lot of customers come in just to talk—we joke that we’re unofficial therapists. Building rapport builds trust, and that trust keeps people coming back.
What lessons have shaped the customer experience and helped create loyal customers?
JB: You can study diamonds and jewelry, but real-life experience teaches you more than anything. I’ve learned a lot about antiques over the years. My dad even had an antique store in downtown Wilmette before starting the jewelry business.
We carry a wide range of items: antique jewelry, coins for collectors, bullion, watches, tools, music and DJ equipment, cameras, and lenses. If you’re an aspiring DJ or photographer—or looking to upgrade—this is a great place to start. We sell and loan on most items, depending on what the customer needs.
What’s most important for people to understand about pawn loans?
JB: Pawn loans are short-term, collateral-based loans meant to help during emergencies or unexpected expenses. The most important thing is to get a loan from someone you trust. If you don’t know who you’re dealing with, you’re setting yourself up for trouble.
Pawn loans are different from traditional loans because they never impact your credit score. It’s similar to a home equity loan in concept, but instead of risking your house, you’re using an item. If life happens, there’s no long-term financial damage.
How is the industry doing right now?
JB: The industry is very strong right now. Gold prices are up, and we’re paying more than ever. Even a small amount of gold can surprise people. Whether someone needs $500 or $5,000, it can really go a long way.
Any advice for people seeking cash loans?
JB: Work with someone you can trust and relate to. Pawn loans are for everybody; people from all walks of life come through our doors. Sometimes someone’s waiting for a paycheck, starting a new job, or dealing with a short-term cash crunch. All roads cross here at some point.
Is there anything else you’d like people to know about Fullerton Pawners?
JB: Pawn shops aren’t just for people without money. We work with professionals, real estate investors, and people from surrounding communities like Kenilworth, Winnetka, and beyond. It’s a collateral-based loan—simple, transparent, and fair.
At the end of the day, what we bring is honesty, integrity, and a human touch. If you treat people kindly and fairly, you’ll sleep well at night.
Thinking About Pawning or Selling in Chicago?
Bring your items in for a straightforward evaluation and see why generations of customers continue to trust Fullerton Pawners. Check out our other services online.
Stop by 5920 W. Fullerton Ave. in Chicago or call 773-637-9999 with any questions!
