Even a free piano will come at some expense. It will need to be moved, tuned, and most likely repaired. Be sure to find a piano that is worth the cost. Whether intentional or just misinformed, the seller will often provide false information about a piano's age and condition. Be sure to always verify a piano's age by obtaining the serial number. In most cases, the seller should be able to supply you with this if you direct them to lift the piano's lid and look for a number printed on the iron plate near the tuning pins (usually 5-8 digits). If you email me the piano's make and serial number, I will gladly inform you of the piano's age. 

If you would like me to inspect a piano for you, there will be a $70 fee for this service, but would you buy a used car without having a mechanic inspect it first? I am also available to tune/repair your piano after delivery. But feel free to call or email me if you just have  a question about piano shopping.

Simplest formula: Bigger (taller upright or longer grand) = sounds better
                               Newer = feels better

1. Budget - If your budget is between $500 and $5,000, it makes more sense to buy used than new.  If buying a used upright, you can find a better deal at places like Craigslist than you will at a piano dealer, but there is greater risk involved. If shopping for a used grand, Craigslist is worth checking, but it is not usually a great source for grands. Don't forget to leave about $300 in your budget to have the piano moved and tuned.

2. Age - Although a piano can be serviceable for over 100 years (without being rebuilt), it will only function smoothly for the first 40-50 years. This is a rough estimate since every piano will deteriorate at a different pace depending on the climate, quality of the instrument, how frequently it was played, and how well it was cared for.

3. Brand - Brand is very important when buying a new piano. But when buying used, concerns such as age, condition and size are generally of greater importance.

4. Size -  I do not recommend buying spinets. They have poor tone due to short strings and poor feel due to short keys. They have an increased likelihood of mechanical problems, and are more difficult (and therefore more expensive) for your technician to repair. A spinet can generally be identified as a piano that is 40" and under, but it is not the height that defines it as a spinet. What makes it a spinet is a "drop action," meaning its mechanical parts have been lowered to beneath the keyboard instead of above. Whether buying a vertical or a grand, larger piano's are more desireable.

From smallest to largest, here are the sizes of vertical pianos (what are commonly referred to as "uprights"):
Spinet
Console                            
Studio
Upright