Selling a piano isn’t just about finding a buyer and handing over the keys. It’s about telling a story, showcasing the value, and connecting with someone who truly appreciates what you’re offering. Whether it’s an upright you’ve had for decades or a top-tier stage piano used for gigs, getting the best price takes a little strategy — and a lot of heart. Here’s a complete guide to help you through it.
1. Understand What You’re Selling
Before anything else, you need to really know your piano. What brand is it? What model? How old? Was it regularly maintained? Buyers — especially serious ones — will ask these questions. Having clear answers will instantly make you more trustworthy.
For instance, if you’re selling something like one of the popular Kawai pianos, be sure to highlight its renowned action and warm tone. Some buyers specifically look for brands they know and trust, and mentioning that can nudge them closer to a sale.
2. Get Your Piano in the Best Shape Possible
Nobody falls in love with a dusty, neglected piano. If you want top dollar, presentation matters. At the very least, clean it thoroughly — wipe down the keys, polish the wood, and vacuum around and underneath. If the piano hasn’t been tuned in the past year, seriously consider hiring a technician to tune it before you list it. A well-tuned piano not only sounds better, it feels more valuable to a buyer.
Minor repairs, like sticking keys or squeaky pedals, can also be worth fixing. Think of it as detailing a car before selling it — a little investment often leads to a bigger payout.
3. Take Beautiful, Honest Photos
Good photos are everything. If you’re selling online, photos are your handshake, your first impression. Take clear shots in natural light from multiple angles. Include pictures of the whole piano, the keys, the pedals, the bench (if included), and even close-ups of the brand name and model number.
Show any flaws, too — scratches, fading, or small cracks. Being honest about imperfections upfront prevents misunderstandings later, and serious buyers appreciate transparency.
4. Research Your Pricing
Setting the right price is a balancing act. Too high, and you scare buyers away. Too low, and you leave money on the table. Check online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, Reverb, or even specialty piano dealer websites to see what similar models are selling for in your area.
Keep in mind that certain models have a more stable resale value. A beginner digital piano like the Yamaha P45 won’t fetch as much as a high-end hybrid or grand piano, but there’s a big, eager market for affordable starter instruments.
Be realistic: factor in age, condition, brand reputation, and local demand. It’s okay to price slightly higher to leave room for negotiation — just don’t go so high that you scare off potential buyers.
5. Write a Thoughtful Listing
When you’re ready to create your listing, don’t just write “Piano for Sale. Good condition.” That doesn’t tell a story, and it won’t stand out among the dozens of other listings.
Instead, talk about what makes your piano special. Mention its tone, feel, brand reputation, or any interesting backstory (“used lovingly in a family music room” or “perfect for small gigs and studio use”).
And always include:
- Brand and model
- Condition (honestly)
- Any recent maintenance (like tuning or repairs)
- What’s included (bench, sustain pedal, stand)
- Your asking price
- Your general location
Make your tone friendly but professional. You want people to feel like they’re dealing with someone who cares.
6. Choose the Right Platforms
Different pianos sell better on different platforms. For instance:
- Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace: Great for local sales of upright pianos and beginner keyboards.
- Reverb: Excellent for digital pianos and professional-level gear.
- Piano-specific marketplaces: Best for high-end acoustic and hybrid pianos.
If you’re selling something niche, like a professional keyboard such as the Nord Stage 4, posting on musician-specific groups and gear marketplaces will likely get you faster and better offers than general classified ads.
Don’t be afraid to post in multiple places — just be sure to keep your listings consistent.
7. Be Ready to Answer Questions
Once the inquiries start rolling in, be prepared! People will ask about the piano’s condition, history, dimensions, weight, and why you’re selling it. They may want to come and test it.
If you’re selling an acoustic piano, some buyers might even bring a tuner or technician to inspect it. Don’t take it personally — it just means they’re serious.
It helps to have a short but polite response prepared for lowball offers. Something like, “Thanks for your interest, but I’m firm on the price due to the piano’s excellent condition and recent maintenance.”
8. Plan the Logistics
Think about how you want the handover to happen before you even list. Are you offering delivery? Is it pickup only? For large upright or grand pianos, professional movers are usually a must.
Make it clear in your ad who is responsible for moving the piano. Many sellers ask the buyer to arrange and pay for professional moving, and that’s perfectly normal — just make sure it’s stated upfront.
For digital pianos or keyboards, offering to meet halfway or even deliver locally can be a selling point that sets you apart.
9. Trust Your Gut
Always trust your instincts when dealing with potential buyers. If someone seems suspicious, disorganized, or unwilling to meet reasonable terms, it’s okay to walk away.
Cash is usually the safest form of payment for local deals, but some sellers accept secure online payments if agreed upon in advance.
Never hand over the piano until payment has been completed in full.
Final Thoughts
Selling your piano isn’t just a transaction — it’s handing over a piece of your personal history to someone new. With a little preparation, honesty, and thoughtful marketing, you can not only get a great price, but also feel good about the new home your instrument will find.
Whether you’re parting with a beloved upright, an old Yamaha P-45, a reliable digital from the Kawai pianos line, or a sleek stage beast like the Nord Stage 4, remember: every piano has its story. And when you tell it well, buyers will listen — and pay accordingly.
