Letting go of a beloved grand or upright piano is never easy, especially when you’re unsure how to find it a new home. Once a staple in middle-class living rooms, the piano has slipped down the priority list for modern families. But if you’ve got a quality instrument and a fair appraisal, there are still solid options for making a respectable sale.

 

So, where does a piano fit in today’s market? And how do you make sure you're not underselling your treasured keys?

To get started selling your piano, first have it professionally appraised, then call or visit local dealers and compare offers. (iStock)

The Changing Tune of the Piano Market

Back in 1980, the piano was a household icon. That year alone, Americans bought more than 250,000 of them. Fast forward to today, and that number has dropped dramatically: only about 20,000 pianos were sold in 2020. The reason? Digital pianos and compact keyboards are stealing the show. They're cheaper, easier to move, and a lot less fussy to maintain.

 

Still, there’s a niche crowd that appreciates the tone and craftsmanship of traditional pianos. The key is finding them, and knowing the best route to reach them.

Dealer vs. Direct: Choosing Your Sales Channel

Going Through a Dealer

If your piano is a premium brand (think Steinway, Yamaha, or Kawai) and it's in great condition, a dealer may be your fastest and least stressful option. These professionals know the market, have the showroom traffic, and can handle transportation.

 

To get started:

  • Make sure your piano is professionally appraised.
  • Call or visit a few local dealers.
  • Ask if they do in-home evaluations.
  • Compare offers. Not just for price, but also for terms like pickup logistics.

You won’t pocket as much as a private sale might offer, but you’ll save yourself a lot of time and hassle.

Selling Privately

If you're hoping to earn a bit more, selling directly is still viable. But it’s not for the faint of heart. You'll need to:

  • Post on community message boards or digital platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor, or Craigslist.
  • Field inquiries and schedule showings.
  • Let prospective buyers test the piano in your home.
  • Ensure secure payment (cash or a verified cashier’s check only) before the instrument leaves your house.

And remember, moving a piano isn't a casual weekend errand. You or the buyer will need to coordinate professional movers unless you're both confident in your back strength and dolly game.

The resale market may not be what it once was, but for high-quality instruments, there’s still a buyer out there waiting to strike the first chord. (iStock)

 

Final Notes Before You Sell

Selling a piano in 2025 means balancing value, effort, and emotion. Whether you inherited it, learned to play on it, or simply admired it from afar, parting with a piano takes a thoughtful approach. The resale market may not be what it once was, but for high-quality instruments, there’s still a buyer out there waiting to strike the first chord.

 

Takeaway Tips

  • Know your piano’s value before you list it.
  • Dealers offer convenience; private sales may net more money.
  • Always get paid securely before the piano is moved.
  • If you’re unsure, get a second opinion (or even a third).