I had a PS3 system with controllers and various games and was looking to sell it. As I recently bought a PS4 and could not play any PS3 games on the system and no longer needed it. I had this system for a couple years, and got my money's worth out of it and felt it could be sold for something higher than $100 and about an additional $50-$100 for the games. I began my research, looking into various game stores within a 15 mile distance and I also ventured into the online marketing/advertising websites. I personally didn't want to advertise my system on Amazon, Ebay, or Craigslist, etc. I understand that I could of possibly made a little more money, if I did advertise it online. With that in mind, take into consideration that there is a huge competitive market in selling used systems and games on those sites. I was just looking to sell them at what i thought to be a reasonable price (around $150-$200) for a quick buck. I didn't want to deal with making of multiple accounts, the shipping process, the waiting, and etc.
I started out at my local neighborhood GameStop. I brought in my system and games to be determined for a price. A long story short, I was not impressed with there "buying/trade in program". They offer you a minimal cash output based on what their computer system says! Without giving any explanation as to why they are priced as such? It is nice to know the details, so the customer has a better understanding and can come to a consensus of a Yes or No. The employees and Management couldn't really give me a reason or any details. Clearly, the work force in that GameStop was mediocre and not fully knowledgable of their own program. Although, I can't say they didn't offer an alternative. I was offered store credit, and the value for my system and games was slightly higher than the cash output, but NOT significant enough to say," This is a good deal!" It is a real bummer that they would create such a program that is questionable and leaves you without any reasoning, details or knowledge as to why? If you like GameStop and you are pleased, I can respect that! I was not impressed, but to each their own.
Finding GameStop to be a bust. I decided to check out the next nearest game shop; The Game Exchange. I have heard about there long history in Simi Valley, and saw positive reviews. Before venturing to the actual store, I wanted to call and make sure that they were able to buy systems and games, and that someone would be there to analyze the system and games, and be able to authorize and determine a cash/check form of payment. I called, and had a young gentleman by the name of Joseph pick up. I asked my questions and stated what I want. He answered very kindly, promptly and professionally. He told me he is the owner of the store, and from my questions, he was clear and direct in what he was willing to buy. I had just what he was looking for, and he welcomed me to stop by the store to determine a price. He then gave me a time period on his availability. Two hours later and traveling less than one mile from my house, I stop by. I come in holding everything, and he was currently informing two customers and processing their purchases . He politely excuses himself for a brief amount of time, and tells me he will be with me in a moment. Then suggests, that I may put down everything on a nearby table, as he could see my hands were full. After servicing the customers ahead of me, he kindly greeted and introduced himself, and shook my hand. He even remembered and recognized my phone call, that I made 2 hours ago. Already, I was in a positive mood and found him to be very trustworthy, friendly and self-motivated. He looked at my system and games and checked their condition. He asked, what price I would like for them and asked if I have checked out any other places. I replied with a $150-$200 range, and I visited GameStop and various online marketing sites, along with my reasoning for not going with those options. He clearly understood, and told me NOT to tell him the quoted prices those other places gave. As he wanted to make a reasonable and non comparable price. He also gave a buyer priced percentage in comparison to what he tries to sell it for in his shop. Adding up the totals it hit my goal of $150-$200. He asked me if that was reasonable. I considered all the factors, and service and came to an agreement. We concluded our business and parted ways with a hand shake and smile each.
My overall experience with The Game Exchange is very high. The owner is motivated, understanding, knowledgable, and wants to build an excellent customer relationship. He also understands, what it means to create a win-win situation. This business knows customer service, and how to address/help their customer's needs. As a plus, the store is clean and organized, making it easy to find and locate your desired game or system. Needless to say, they have earned my respect. I look forward to The Game Exchange's expansion!!! read more