I have heard of rebuilders doing estimates and quoting outlandish
resale values after the piano is completely rebuilt.  Customers
should be made aware that finding a buyer nowadays is like finding
a needle in a haystack.

Most of the people buying old upright players don't want to pay
anywhere near the price that it costs for a good restoration.  The
buyers of the older player grands are usually buying ornate or very
good quality instruments such as Steinway, Weber, or Mason and Hamlin.

When you see prices quoted on the web or in the classified ads, keep
in mind that these are asking prices -- not what the piano sold for,
if it did indeed sell at all.

Diane DeTar
San Diego, Calif.