Chattanoogans Fuel Boom In Secondhand Market

The landscaping rocks lining the walkway to Laurie Janes' home didn't come from a retailer.  Neither did her designer purses or custom bicycles.  "We don't pay retail for anything but food these days," says Janes.

About a year and a half ago, her family discovered Craigslist while searching for some gymnastics equipment for their daughter.  "It was kind of a little bit like treasure hunting to see what you could find," says Janes.

Now, they make Craigslist their first stop for nearly all their family's needs.  Her husband, Kevin, says "we have Ethan Allen furniture that we purchased for her room as well as a couple of dressers, at probably 80% off retail."

The Janes say Craigslist gives them flexibility in their budget, so they can get items they want -- and need to maintain their present lifestyle during these tight times.  And they're not alone.

With so many people now on Craigslist, Janes says you have to act fast to find what you want, especially things like children's playground equipment.  "We kind of joked that I'm the hunter and he's the gatherer. He'll end up having to go get stuff... but its just an adventure of what you can find and how much you can save."

Babycenter.com estimates the typical family will spend just over eleven-thousand dollars a year to raise a child.  And while it's hard to reduce some expenses, clothing provides a no nonsense money saving opportunity.

Lisa Parton has two young children.  She shops consignment stores and events, like this Just Between Friends sale, for quality outfits minus the sticker shock.  "Why would I pay full price when I can get just as nice clothes here for a third of the price at least, if not a lot cheaper."  Parton says she can pull four or five items off these racks or walk home with one item from a retailer.

The consignment business appears to be booming right now.  Organizers for this event sold 20-percent of their inventory during a pre-sale -- before doors ever opened to the public.  Missy Headrick, JBF Cleveland owner, says "we actually tripled our number of consigners for this sale and its our second building so we've already outgrown it in one sale."

As the recession lingers, the number of people hosting and hitting garage sales seems to be surging too.  Kenny Shaw says you can always find a good deal, if you're willing take the time to look.  "You have to come out here and find stuff because you cant afford to go out and spend that money on stuff, you might as well get it second hand, usually its just as good."

Proving once again that you can't judge a book -- or bargain for that matter -- by its cover.

Here's a few more tips.  Craigslist features a Chattanooga section, but you'll find more options if you expand your search to include Knoxville, Huntsville, Nashville, and Atlanta.

And -- the next Just Between Friends consignment event hits Camp Jordan Arena June 21st through the 27th.