How to Buy a Used Piano (used grand piano, baby grand piano, upright piano...)

It is important to know how to buy a used piano, no matter what type of piano you plan on buying. Whether you are looking to buy a used grand piano, used baby grand piano or used upright piano, you need to know what to look for when you buy and what the value of used piano should be.

Read the steps below for basic steps in how to buy a used piano.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Do some research -
   
   Before starting to look to buy a used piano, do some research into the type of piano you are looking for. Talk to experts and professional piano players. Read up on types of pianos and parts of a piano.

2. Bring an experienced piano player with you -
   
   When going to buy a used piano, bring someone who knows how to play with you so they can play on the piano and you can listen to how it sounds. While some of piano playing is subjective, you can get a basic idea of whether or not the piano sounds right by listening. If it is very off tune or keys do not play at all or leave a buzzing sound, you know there is something wrong.

3. Don't go by appearance alone -
   
   With used pianos, it is very important to look beyond the external looks. Unlike antique furniture, the real value in a piano is how it works.

4. Check the external of the piano -
   
   Look at the outside of the piano as an indication of the condition of the piano. If it looks neglected, chances are the inside is also neglected.

5. Check the internal of the piano -
   
   Look for any obvious problem with the internal workings of the piano.

6. Check how the piano plays -
   
   Try playing all the keys (including the black keys). Also try the pedals. See that everything is in working condition with no broken parts.

7. Find out the age of the piano -
   
   Find the manufacturer and serial number of the piano. Search this information to find details about the piano and its age.

8. Get a professional piano technician to evaluate the piano -
   
   Once you have done the initial evaluation into the quality of the piano, hire a professional piano technician to determine the value of the piano. The piano technician will be able to tell you about how much the piano is worth and how much you would have to pay to fix it up.

Tips & Warnings

• Many used piano sellers are inexperienced in knowing how to value a piano. They might try to overcharge you. Get a professional evaluation to make sure you are not overpaying.
• This information is based on online research

[sonni57]

on 5/25/2009 I almost bought a piano when I was taking piano lessons thank God I didn't since I didn't do well at it.