How to Buy a Used Piano
When presented with the need to purchase a piano, it is a good idea to consider all the options. This includes whether to select a new piano or a used piano.
When investing in a piano, choosing a brand known for quality can instill confidence that the instrument will deliver many years of fine service. When purcahsing a used piano however, the longevity of the piano as well as the expected costs of keeping it in top shape, are less certain.
Nevertheless, it is often worthwhile for the value-conscious consumer to purchase a good used piano. With that in mind, it is worthwhile to raise the question, why do people really want to buy a used piano.
Consumers usually want to purchase a used piano because of the perception that in doing so they will receive better VALUE. The value of an instrument is often calculated as the amount of benefit and enjoyment the purchaser will receive, divided by its price. However, needs very. Before quickly deciding on the purchase of a used piano, it is helpful to reveiw the possibility of purchasing a new one. People are sometimes suprised at what they learn when they consider with an open mind what best fits their needs.
On this page we look at several factors to look for when searching for that perfect used piano.
Temporary Cost or a Long Term Investment
By temporary cost, we mean a decision to buy a piano that will be good enough for now but, not for the future. It may be the piano to het you playing again, one on which you can prove to yourself that you are indeed serious about making the piano a part of your life, or it may be the piano for a young beginner.
We believe, as do many piano educators, that a beginner should be afforded the best piano instrument. Pianos should assist a new student in his or her learning process, not hamper it. When someone asks for a beginner piano, in actuality they should be brought over to a Steinway concert grand.
Making the decision to purchase a piano for a short term can lead to possible future costs down the road. Whether it be in the form of servicing, loss in the original value of the piano when one sells it, or loss in motivation and interest in music and in the piano itself, there is the risk of loss from the beginning. The only true benefit of a short term piano is the initial cost is low.
If someone wants to own a piano that will become an integral part of their life style, it is important to choose an instrument with a history of longevity and quality. Of course, a Steinway is an example of a long term investment. It is such a good investment that due to Steinway's legendary appreciation value you may be able to sell your piano for more than what you paid for it. However, even a Steinway has a life. Purchasing a used Steinway that needs total rebuilding may be in the category of a temporary cost.
Quality of Existing Repairs Made & Replacement Parts
When examining a piano take special note about the repairs that have already been made, as well as the type of replacement parts used. Some questions you want to ask are:
- Who made the repairs?
- How long ago were they made?
- What parts were used?
- Were the parts genuine manufacturer replacement parts?
Unfortunately, there are many horror stories we can tell. there are people who will use inferior parts and unorthodox repair procedures. It is no secret that a manufacturer is better equipped than any rebuilder can be to deal with problems; after all, proper servicing requires experienced workmen, specialized tooling and genuine replacement parts.
Repair Cost
When purchasing a piano from a private party, even if it is determined that no major rebuilding is needed, there will usually be some needed repairs. It is important to find out the repair cost to put the piano into shape before you purchase it. At an average of $80 per hour for technical work, a piano that you thought was a good buy may turn out costing significantly mor that bargained for.
There are very few casses in which we receive trade-inpianos that do not require work. The average piano that we receive during a purchase for its trade-in value can demand anywhere from 6 to 18 hours' worth of work needed. At $80 per hour that is $480 to $1,440. The best advise before purchasing a piano is to consult a technician who can estimate the cost necessary to put that piano into proper shape.
Expected Life
Pianos do not last forever. Not even Steinways. Depending on the type and amount of use the piano, in addition to enviromental condidtions, wear and tear are inevitable.
A Steinway last for an average of between 60 to 85 years before any major structural parts need to be replaced. If you are looking at an instrument that is 100 years old and that has never been rebuilt you can feel pretty certain that it will need work in the near future.
When purchasing a used piano, consider the possible life left in that piano. Unfortunately there is no easy way of checking this. The piano is 85% wood. If the piano was taken care of and kept in an enviromentally-controlled room all its life, you can be more confident in its future longevity. However, there is always a gamble. The piano may be fine today, yet show signs of cracking in the near future.
Future Rebuilding Costs
Even though the piano you are considering is in fine shape for it's age, you may want to determine how much it may cost you if you will need to have it rebuilt in the future. Depending on the brand of piano, rebuilding a grand piano can range between $10,000 to 50,000 depending on the work needed. Another way to look at rebuilding is, if you are considering the purchase of a used baby grand for $10,000 and can expect a rebuilding cost of $15,000, why not consider a new baby grand valued at $25,000. Further, a piano that is rebuilt could sound and feel different than the orginal. When purchasing a new piano, you have the luxury of choosing the sound and touch that is most satisfying to you.
Future Possible Return on Investment
If you are considering the purchase of a piano with the intention of selling it later, you may want to keep in mind that the resale value of most piano, with the exception of a Steinway, is low. Unless you get an extremely good buy, expect not to receive what you paid for it when selling it.
Warranty
You will want to be certain there is some type of warranty or recourse in the event of problems when investing any sum of money in a used piano.
Some Solid Advice When Purchasing From A Private Party
If you are considering purchasing a piano from a private party it is best that you look over the piano in person. Play it, touch it and make your best estimate on the piano's condition. If you are interested in that piano then we recommend you make an appointment to visit it again with a qualified piano technician. He or she could then check the piano over in its entirety.
Summary
As you are now aware, when contemplating the purchase of a used piano there are many things to consider. There is alway a degree of risk associated with selecting a used piano. Your job and ours is to see to it that the risk is as small as possible.
We hope that you now have a little more thorough understanding of the issues involved when you buy a used piano and can make a well-educated decision when it comes to your piano purchase.