Purchase Tips

1. Stay with a reputable music store. How do you know if a store is reputable- ask your friends, check them out. Google them, do what ever takes to feel comfortable with the store you're dealing with.

2. Visit the retail location of the dealer, see what his operation is all about. Ask how long have they been in business in that location under that name- then check it out.

3. Collect brochures on the pianos your interested in. Talk to local teachers.

4. Ask the salesman questions- the more the better.

5. Select a name produced by large manufacturers when possible. The number of real piano manufacturers is actually quite small. Better yet, purchase a piano bearing the name of the actual manufacturer. For example if you are going to buy a Yamaha be sure it says Yamaha. Avoid pianos that are represented as "designed by", or "manufactured for us by". These claims are hard to verify and may in fact be false.

6. Try to purchase from a dealer and a manufacturer that has been in business for many years, and shows good stability. 

7. Opinions of friends and neighbors are helpful, but, the industry changes so quickly, that what was great a few years ago, may not be today. Evaluate and compare current products for yourself. 

8. At some point you will have to trust your judgment when it comes to deciding who will get your business- just be sure your decision is made without any undue influence from Mr. High Pressure.

9. Select a piano with a long warranty, from a reputable manufacturer.

10. If your looking for a digital piano be cautious if the salesperson resists answering legitimate questions, or does not have adequate knowledge.  Ask for the names of the local service techs- then call them. Many techs will gladly tell you the companies they can't get parts from, or who delay warranty claims unnecessarily. Naperville Music has that list and will gladly provide it.

11. If a dealer offers you what seems to be an "once in a lifetime price on a piano" good for today only- ask him why!

It might be a real reason (overstock, last year's model, special purchase, floor model, etc). Ask him to write down the model number, regular price and then the sale price and watch his reaction. Tell him you want to think about it and see what he does next. Honest sales people what to assist you in making a decision. They will not try to pressure you into one.

The more pressure you get to close the deal, the faster you should run from the dealer. Most legitimate piano dealers operate in what most people would consider a reasonable manner. If the demands of the dealer seem a bit "off" then watch out. Legitimate sales and promotions run their course. A reputable dealer will encourage you to take advantage of any promotional offers but in reality will realize that he cannot make you do anything, and will honor your desire to think about your purchase so that you will be a happy customer..

12. Use good common sense.  

13. Have fun shopping, don't get confused when everyone tells you they have the best piano. Purchase a quality piano from a dealer who has earned your trust and your business. And purchase the piano that makes the most sense for your family.

You should use our "Find My Piano" form.  It is a no-obligation way to get more detailed information on the pianos you are most interested in.  One is located on this page, and is available on most of our piano pages.

Call us .

1-888-355-1404