This N' That Thrift Store in Chattanooga: Rotating Inventory with Negotiable Pricing

This N' That is a single-dealer thrift shop on the north side of Chattanooga that stocks furniture, household goods, clothing, and occasional vintage finds at prices that move faster than typical consignment stores because the owner actively negotiates on bulk purchases and larger pieces.

What This N' That actually is

A compact independent thrift operation, not a multi-dealer mall or donation-fed nonprofit. The inventory rotates based on what the owner acquires, which means the same category (say, dining tables or winter coats) may be fully stocked one month and thin the next. This unpredictability is typical of single-dealer shops but contrasts with the steadier stock at larger operations like Goodwill or the Salvation Army. Pricing reflects the owner's assessment of condition and local demand rather than a fixed formula, so a leather sofa might be marked down 20 percent if it's been on the floor for three weeks.

Inventory, pricing, and what to expect

Furniture dominates the floor space. Sofas, dining sets, and bedroom pieces typically range from $150 to $800 depending on condition and style. Smaller household items, décor, and kitchenware run $2 to $40. Clothing is sorted by type and priced at $3 to $15 per piece; designer or vintage finds occasionally command higher tags. Unlike thrift chains, prices here are negotiable, particularly on items that have lingered or when you're buying multiple pieces. A worn dresser marked $200 might sell for $160 if you're also taking a side table; a used but functional sofa at $400 is sometimes discussable to $350 for immediate pickup.

Stock varies widely by season. Summer typically brings more seasonal décor and lighter clothing; winter sees an uptick in furniture as people downsize or relocate.

How This N' That compares to other Chattanooga thrift options

Goodwill and Salvation Army locations throughout Chattanooga operate on donated inventory and fixed pricing, which means broader selection and consistent lower price ceilings (most furniture under $300) but less negotiating room and slower merchandise turnover. Choose Goodwill or Salvation Army if you want a wide range of basics and predictable pricing; choose This N' That if you're hunting for a specific type of piece and willing to check back, or if you want room to negotiate on a bulk purchase or high-ticket item.

Consignment shops like those in North Shore focus on newer, higher-end merchandise with stricter quality standards and higher price points. This N' That skews toward practical and serviceable rather than aspirational, making it better for budget-conscious furnishing than for statement pieces.

Who benefits and who doesn't

Renters filling an apartment with basic furniture on a tight budget fit well here. Buyers scouting for a specific item (a mid-century dresser, bar stools, a solid kitchen table) often return multiple times because they know the owner restocks regularly. People doing a full home refresh in one trip usually leave frustrated; the selection is real but narrow enough that a coordinated look takes planning.

Those seeking pristine condition or brand-new merchandise should look elsewhere. This N' That is secondhand; upholstered pieces may show wear, wood may have marks, and everything is sold as-is with no returns. Buyers uncomfortable negotiating or who prefer transparent, non-negotiable pricing may find the process uncomfortable.

What a first visit involves

There is no appointment needed. Walk in, browse the front room and back showroom, and examine items closely. Ask the owner about condition, history, or the possibility of a discount if you're interested in something specific. Many people spend 20 to 30 minutes on a first trip; regulars pop in for 10 minutes to scan for new pieces. The space is tight, so visiting on a weekday morning tends to be less crowded than Saturday afternoon.

If you find a sofa or large piece you want but need time to measure your space or arrange transport, the owner typically holds items for a few days if you leave a deposit; confirm this arrangement when you ask.

Hours and logistics

This N' That operates by appointment and walk-in availability, though exact hours shift seasonally. Verify the current schedule before visiting, as single-dealer shops often adjust based on acquisition trips or personal availability. Street parking is available nearby. The shop is not wheelchair accessible due to the narrow layout and stepped entry.

This N' That fills a gap between the speed and low prices of donation-based thrift chains and the curated, higher-end experience of consignment boutiques, making it a practical stop for Chattanooga renters and DIY furnishers who value negotiation and don't mind hunting.