Start with how you will use the piano
Think about who will play, the space available and when you need quiet practice. Try different instruments if you can. A familiar brand or an attractive cabinet can help you make a shortlist, but neither tells you how a particular used piano feels or what work it needs.
An acoustic upright or grand has strings and a mechanical playing action. A digital piano produces sound electronically. Your checks should match the instrument: ask about tuning and mechanical condition for an acoustic piano, and test the electronic functions and included accessories on a digital model.
Measure the space and check the delivery route before committing. The piano must reach its intended room, not just fit through the front entrance. Our piano moving checklist explains what to share with a mover.
Compare the whole offer, not just the price
Browse used pianos for sale by type, brand, price and location. Compare instruments in similar condition. An advertised asking price is a seller’s request, rather than proof of what another buyer actually paid.
Ask what the price includes. A stool, delivery, preparation or written warranty may be included in one offer and absent from another. Check those details directly with the seller. Set aside room in your budget for an inspection, collection and any servicing the instrument needs.
A piano offered free of charge can still cost money to move and repair. Before accepting one, check whether its condition and the total cost suit your plans. Do not assume that an old piano is valuable simply because of its age.
Questions to ask before a viewing
- What are the brand, model, piano type and known age? Are identifying details and clear photos available?
- Who owns the piano, and is it still available to inspect and buy?
- What servicing or repairs have been done, and are dated records available?
- Are any keys, pedals, controls or other parts faulty or missing?
- Where is it kept, and what stairs, lifts or access restrictions affect collection?
- What accessories, delivery arrangements and written sale terms are included?
Keep a note of unanswered questions. If a listing gives only a broad public location, agree the viewing details privately with the seller rather than expecting a precise home address in the advert.
Try it, then arrange an independent inspection
With the seller’s permission, play across the keyboard and try the pedals. Listen for unexpected noises and notice keys that respond differently. For a digital piano, check the speakers, headphone output and controls you need, along with the correct power supply. A short playing test is useful, but cannot establish every aspect of an instrument’s condition.
For an acoustic piano, arrange a pre-purchase assessment with an independent piano technician. Ask for the findings and likely work in writing, and clarify what the inspection covers. The Piano Technicians Guild’s buying advice also recommends an assessment before purchase.
Give the technician the advert, model details and your questions. Arrange access with the seller in advance. Do not dismantle the instrument or try repairs during a viewing. Discuss any concerns before agreeing the purchase.
Agree collection and payment clearly
Confirm who books and pays for the move, the collection date and what happens if access differs from the description. Ask the mover to assess difficult access before you commit. Keep a written record of the agreed instrument, price, included items and handover arrangements.
Check the recipient and payment instructions carefully. Be cautious about pressure to pay immediately or unexpected links. Read our buyer safety advice, and use Help and contact to report a suspicious advert.
After delivery, ask a technician about the appropriate time for servicing your acoustic piano. Our guide to piano tuning and repairs explains the different kinds of work you may discuss.
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