Buyers guide

Before you spend money for either a new or used piano, a little preparation is helpful so that you purchase a piano that is appropriate for your needs. Your best bet would be to find a good dealer, one who deals in new and used pianos, go along to the shop and play some of the instruments. This will allow you to feel the difference in 'touch' of various pianos, and also hear the differences in musical tone. You may also have an idea of what the piano should look like – colour and style of casework.

Buying a used piano

If you opt to buy a used piano privately, you will need to appreciate that extra costs on top of the purchase price will be inevitable. Although you will find that buying privately is generally much cheaper than buying from a dealer, be aware that the piano in someone's home may not have been serviced regularly, and so the cost will be on you as the buyer to have any repairs done, have it regulated and tuned after purchase. The cost of transporting it to your home will also fall on you. There are many pianos out there in people's homes which are in great condition, but there are also many more which aren't – and just because you like the look of a piano, doesn't mean it's a good buy!

If you opt to buy privately, it is a good idea, when you have decided on a piano you like the look and sound of, to take along a qualified piano technician to give it the once over. I would be happy to do this for you depending on the location. Unfortunately, as I have had my fingers burned in the past, I have recently had to apply a £25 fee for this service in the Co. Antrim/Down district (higher fee may apply for pianos further afield) – but this amount will be deducted from your repair bill should the piano need any work done*.

* Repairs/action work only - does not apply to tuning fee.