Once upon a time, there were hundreds of piano manufacturers creating high-quality instruments. Every grand piano that left the factory was a work of art, ready to be played and enjoyed for years to come. 

Oh, how times have changed. Today, we have three American piano companies crafting new pianos. Most new grand pianos are crafted in Asian factories at a fraction of the cost and quality.  

Instead of heirlooms built for handing down to future generations, these take on a play-and-replace quality meant more for consumption. For pianists who truly want a work of art in their homes, a used grand piano is the only way to go. 

For many piano players, owning a grand piano is a dream come true. Undoubtedly, grand pianos are beautiful instruments that produce some of the most stunning sounds. However, with cost and quality an issue, more people are opting to purchase used grand pianos instead. 

Built from quality materials

It’s hard to beat the quality of the materials used to make grand pianos in the past. Manufacturers didn’t cut corners, and relied on readily available raw materials. Solid hardwood was commonplace. Cheaper materials such as particleboard or MDF are used more frequently today to manufacture new pianos. A used grand piano made with solid wood will produce a richer, fuller sound than one made with cheaper materials.

Hand-crafted one at a time

Unlike newer pianos, which are often produced using machines in a mass production line, used grand pianos were handmade by skilled craftsmen, one at a time. This allowed for each piano to have its unique sound and personality. While mass production is great for producing new pianos more quickly and efficiently, it also means that they may lack the unique characteristics of a used piano.

Unique look you won’t find anywhere else

Do you prefer a one-of-a-kind look? New grand pianos are designed to look modern and sleek, which may not be everyone’s taste. A used grand piano, on the other hand, has a unique personality that is often reflected in its design. It may have slight wear and tear or markings that can tell a story about the previous owner, creating a truly one-of-a-kind piece.

Built to last

With proper maintenance, a used grand piano can last for decades or even centuries, as evidenced by some of the oldest grand pianos still in use today. A high-quality used grand piano will hold its value better over time compared to a new one, making it a worthwhile investment for serious pianists.

Is a used grand piano in your future?

Want a piano with character and personality? It might be time to purchase a used grand piano. With so many advantages, it might be the right choice for you.  Used grand pianos offer an opportunity to own a piece of history with a soul and a story. As an investment, purchasing a used grand piano is a wise decision for anyone serious about playing the piano.

Is it right for you?

Many pianists dream of having a grand piano in their homes. But the thought of ownership can fade when you start comparing prices of the best piano brands. Is it possible to own the piano of your dreams? Yes!

Buying a used grand piano may be the solution. Yet looking around at used grand pianos can leave you even more confused than before. What do you look for? Where do you buy? 

As a piano player looking to buy a grand piano, start by learning how to negotiate the best deal. Buying a used grand piano can save you thousands compared to purchasing a new one. However, it can be a daunting task, especially if you don’t know what to look for or how to negotiate. 

We work with people daily to purchase the right piano to suit their needs. Here are a few negotiating dos and don’ts we often share with our customers.

Do your Research

Research is key when it comes to buying a used grand piano. Before you start negotiations, research the market price of the piano model you want to buy. This information will give you an idea of the fair market value of the piano. Check online marketplaces, piano retailers, and piano experts to find the ideal price range for the brand and model. The more knowledge you have about the piano, the better you can prepare for negotiations.

Don’t Lowball the Seller

While you want the best possible price, be realistic. Don’t lowball the seller by offering an unrealistic price. A lowball offer can be seen as an insult, and the seller may not take you seriously, jeopardizing any potential negotiations. Be respectful when making an offer, and consider that the seller probably knows more about the piano than you do.

Do Inspect the Piano Thoroughly

Before making an offer, inspect the piano thoroughly. Look for any visible damages or chips that may affect the piano’s sound quality. Check the piano keys, pedals, and strings to ensure they function correctly. If possible, bring a piano technician to inspect the piano more thoroughly. An inspection report can also help you in your negotiations.

Don’t Rush the Negotiations

Take your time when negotiating a used grand piano. Rushing negotiations can lead to bad decisions that cost you more money down the road. Consider the information you’ve gathered about the piano. Listen to the seller’s expectations and counter with a reasonable offer. You can always walk away from the deal if negotiations aren’t going well. But don’t be afraid to negotiate, either. It’s part of the process, and many sellers may be willing to lower the price if you ask respectfully.

Do Negotiate Other Perks

When negotiating for a used grand piano, consider other perks you may receive, such as delivery, bench, piano tuning, or warranty. Including these perks in the negotiation can save you money and increase the value of the purchase. With a used grand piano, you may need to invest money into tuning and restoring it to its original sound quality. Asking for these additional perks can be an excellent opportunity to keep your out-of-pocket expenses to a minimum.

Don’t Be Afraid Of Retail Locations

People often assume they can get the best deal by shopping online. Finding individuals selling their grand pianos isn’t always the safest route. When you only have one grand piano to look at, there’s nothing to compare. Retailers are in the business and have a full spectrum of options. You can compare quality and learn more about what piano is right for you. 

Are you ready to buy a used grand piano? 

Negotiating when buying a used grand piano may seem intimidating at first. But with the proper preparation and knowledge, you can get the best price and the right piano for you. You can make a good deal and enjoy a beautiful grand piano for years by following these dos and don’ts.

Isn’t that what it’s all about?