Selling a piano is a process that can be as complex as the instrument itself. Several factors affect the time it will take you to find the right buyer for your piano. Some of these such as brand or demand are beyond your control. But others you can influence, and the right approach to them will improve, and perhaps even allow you to sell your piano fast.
Factors influencing the fast sell of a piano
- The condition and age of the piano are key. Well-maintained, working and regularly tuned pianos are sought after on the market. Therefore, if they are put up for sale at a competitive price, they should find their buyer. Pianos kept in garages or basements, not tuned for years. Or with visible damage on the outside or inside have rather poor chances of selling – even at a low price. What if you want to sell an older piano, in worse condition but with an interesting history? Will it have a higher value? Well sometimes yes history helps, especially if your piano passes the next subsection positively.
- The brand and model of the piano plays a big part. But this should hardly come as a surprise to anyone. Pianos just like other items can be more or less branded. Reputable and sought-after brands often sell faster than lesser-known or somewhat forgotten brands. The model is usually closely related to the size of the upright or grand piano. While in the case of an upright piano the differences are not that significant. In the case of a grand piano, the model (i.e. the length of the piano) can make a big difference to the buyer.
- The greater the demand for pianos, the shorter the selling time. And it can vary depending on which piano you are trying to sell and the region you live in. Therefore, you should also consider selling your instrument outside your region or even your country. Especially if you want to sell a non-standard length grand piano or a less popular brand, for example.
How long does it take to sell a piano?
Depending on the above factors, it can take you anywhere from a few months to even a year to sell a piano. Of course, there are some piano that sell really fast. The record on Klaviano.com is 32 minutes, from the time a piano is listed on our portal to the time the first enquiry is sent!
From our experience and observations, it is worth giving yourself a min. 3 months. Although, of course, if you know you are moving out in a year and can’t take your piano with you. Then put it up for sale straight away. Don’t wait until you only have 3 mc left until you move out 😉
What can you do to make your piano sell faster?
Choose the right sales channel
Piano shops, online services and local sales are popular options. Each channel has its advantages and disadvantages. Selling through a piano shop can provide a professional service and take some of the workload off your shoulders, but it also often comes with a lower price. Provided the shop decides to accept your piano at all. The internet offers much more flexibility and potentially higher prices, but requires you to prepare the piano yourself and answer additional questions from potential buyers. Instead, it allows you to find buyers for more unusual and original pianos.
Sell locally, whether through some online neighbourhood group or at a garage sale. This can be an excellent choice especially if you want to sell a small piano for learning to play at a bargain price.
Announcement and presentation of the piano
Before selling, consider preparing your piano in advance: tuning, cleaning (including inside) or minor repairs. These will allow your piano to “present itself” better. Good photos and detailed descriptions are key in attracting buyers’ attention. It is important to show the piano in the best possible light. Highlighting its unique features and history but not hiding its flaws or faults. For more on where to find the information you need, how to create an effective ad or how to photograph a piano, see the article below:
Good price
That is, one that determines the actual value of your piano, not the emotional one. For the owners, their piano is not just an instrument, but a companion to life’s moments and memories. And its sale is not just a transaction, but part of a musical journey to be continued by the next owner.
Therefore, valuing such a piano can be difficult for its owner. It is best to ask a qualified tuner for one. He, taking into account the condition, age, make and history, will determine the value of your piano. If you are having trouble finding a piano tuner in your area, consider using an online valuation. It will give you a price range in which similar instruments sell. If you want to sell faster, consider listing your piano at a lower price. But if you want to get the best price, be prepared to take a little longer to find the right buyer.
The process of selling a piano requires patience, knowledge and proper preparation. It is important to approach the process consciously and with the right preparation, bearing in mind that your piano is likely to find its unique buyer. It’s just that sometimes you have to wait a bit for it 😉