If you're thinking about saving a few bucks this holiday season or need money for gifts, you might want to try the local pawn shops.

"First thing that comes to mind when you think of pawn shops is cash. How can I get some," Jason Austin, General Manager of Dan’s Pawn Shop said.
With the holiday season upon us and with the economy the way it is… More and more people are putting cash in their wallets by pawning in some of their merchandise.

"Pawn demand in bay county is up 40%," Avery Adcock said.
And it's not just your average customer either. According to Avery Adcock, owner of Dan's Pawn Shops in Panama City… he says he's seen an increase in middle class customers by 40% and in upper class customers by 20%. Avery says not only is his pawn demand high but his sales are too.
"Because you can buy it used for about half the price of brand new and save money," Adcock said.

Pawning in your merchandise isn't the only thing you can do.
"We do a lot of loans between $20-$100 so we fill a nitch markets that banks don't do. Banks don't offer loans less than $500."

From the falling housing market, to high gas prices over the summer to sharp drop in the stock market, more and more Americans are trying to find ways to make or save money.

In this case, your nearby pawn shop may be the answer.