[pianotech] Upright price

[tnrwim at aol.com]

Noah

You're in the piano business. You're not obligated to give the customer what she want for the piano. Your only obligation is to yourself, to make a profit from the work you do. Don't buy something for a price that you think is to high just to please the customer. If she wants $250 for the piano, let her find someone who will give it to her. 

Wim



 



-----Original Message-----
From: Noah Frere <noahfrere at gmail.com>
To: pianotech <pianotech at ptg.org>
Sent: Tue, Nov 29, 2011 4:27 am
Subject: [pianotech] Upright price


I gave an estimate for repairs/assessment last week of a 90 year old Werner upright who's player components had been removed. The insides were as expected, though on the better side. Only one broken note (hammer flange), few if any cracks in soundboard/bridges. However, the sound was clearly 90 years old and the bobbling hammers, etc. left much to be desired. 

The seller was asking $275, to which I immediately responded (the potential buyer and I were alone) that it was too much, and I would ask for it for $50, but go up to $100 or even $150. Soon afterwards my attention went back to the case, which I had forgotten about, and realized it was in very good condition. The owner came in, and, hearing about the condition of the interior, and the $100 offer, began to cry. She needed to sleep on it. 

As the hours and days progressed, I started double-guessing myself. Had I over-emphasized the interior while ignoring the quality exterior? 
Maybe it was worth $275. 

Hmm...

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