Hello, I am new to the forum.
Looking for a used upright piano in excellent condition, and at a price of at most ā¬1500 (I know, it's not exactly easy), I came across several interesting offers, but one in particular recently struck me the most: an August Forster upright, serial number 79355 (and therefore built between 1937 and 1944), sold at the amazing price of ā¬400.
Now, considering the description given as "good condition and excellent sound, although needing tuning", and the photos I have attached, it is clearly visible that the instrument is in more than good condition (the raised hammer of the penultimate C seen in some photos is not a problem, as the key had been left halfway depressed).
Furthermore, since the August Forster brand is known as a prestigious maker of handcrafted German pianos, I wonder if everything inferred from the description and the photos could be completely true, in the sense that the piano only requires tuning, and perhaps even just a small mechanical overhaul, without any voicing or any type of restoration.
I have contacted the seller via email, who is located in Rome (I am from Terracina, in the province of Latina), and he immediately made himself available for me to try the instrument; yet so far I haven't called him because I don't feel entirely confident that I can make a correct evaluation of the instrument and prepare any necessary maintenance interventions, as I do not possess the theoretical and practical knowledge of a technician, nor those of an expert pianist (in fact, it is the first time I am approaching the purchase of a used piano).
Fundamentally, what makes me hesitate is such a low price... I really don't know if the owner knows exactly the value of his piano, or the market prices.
Therefore, I kindly ask if anyone could give me a hand in clarifying this matter and, if necessary, advise me on alternative options to the indicated piano.
Thank you very much
