San Francisco's Mission district is chock full of vintage thrift shops, but The Apartment is one of our favorites.

The Apartment is a second-hand furniture shop featuring lots of vintage-modern, mid-century pieces at really reasonable prices. And there's a lot of fun, eclectic pieces from eras unknown thrown in for good measure.

Located between Mission and Valencia on 18th Street, we're not going to candy coat it; it's a slightly sketchy neighborhood. Sometimes you have to brave obstacles to get to the real bargains!

Partners Lann Ballard and Lino Beles run the funky shop. We think they must be two of the friendliest shop owners in the city. They are helpful, knowledgeable and are often known to strike a bargain. They'll even help carry your larger purchases to your car for you.

If you're just starting out in your first apartment or are on a tight budget, The Apartment will make you really happy. Lann pointed out several inexpensive dressers, coffee tables and chairs, all under $100. All were affordable, and uniquely stylish at the same time.

The partners find their inventory all over the city. And strangers come by with their cast-offs from time to time, like these green 70's velour dining chairs. So retro-cool, we couldn't help but fall for them.

The Apartment is regularly restocked with uncommon vintage finds and furniture so it's worthwhile to check in often.

We also found an abundant selection of good quality pieces in a slightly higher price range for those of you with a little more to spend. And if you're looking to update your rooms with vintage modern style, you'll find The Apartment a great resource, too. This fabulous, walnut mid-century dining room set was sold the morning we stopped by. Some lucky buyer got all four high back chairs and this round dining table with a gorgeous base for $600.

We also really loved this tomato-red tiled coffee table - a bright, modern accent for any living area.

There's lots of artwork on display and for sale as well - from paintings from local artists, timeworn photos and postcards to kitschy landscapes and portraits. All at much less than you might pay in some of the other shops in the Mission. There's also a tiny upstairs with even more inventory. Tucked into little nooks (the shop is housed in an old Victorian) you'll discover some real thrifty finds. It's a bit like your granny's attic up there, and it's a great thrill to poke about the bargains.

- Victoria