Hi all..

With regard to the current debate on restoration I have found that
potential customers are more likely to spend their money with you if
you treat them properly.  Of course I am stating the obvious... but
what I do is this:

I offer free inspections followed up by a free, comprehensive,  _written_
report on the instrument, concluding with my quote for restoration. If
appropriate, depending upon my estimation of the customer's knowledge,
I include an explanation of the work involved in arriving at my quoted
figure. People appreciate that. And although I try to always compliment
them on their instrument and assure them of its potential as a working
player, nevertheless I try to be honest about its potential value. All
this takes time - but then I enjoy writing anyway. Even so it is a very
small task compared to the total restoration process! So far all of my
quotes have been accepted. Doesn't that tell us something? Perhaps I
am a little on the cheap side ($3000 for a full restoration of a
straightforward player including stack, upper and lower player actions,
plus piano action) but the personal touch counts for a lot in my book.
I also agree that "partial restoration"  is not desirable - but if the
owner only wants it for the kids to knock hell out of who are we to argue?
I simply leave an offer on the table asking for first refusal if they ever
wish to sell at some time in the future.  As for generating demand, well
my "Pianola Workshop"  has a bus stop right outside.  Believe me, half
the population of Solihull will have heard a player in action before
Christmas!  I shall also offer one for hire for Christmas Pianola
Parties - old-fashioned Karaoke!

Best regards to all and keep the advice coming you experienced techs...
it really is appreciated.

Roger Waring

roger.waring@dial.pipex.com