Sell Your Instruments & Bows
We Buy
LAVS is looking for high quality instruments and bows. (Unique, antique, fine...)
We do not purchase student grade instruments. In other words, we don't normally buy workshop-made or mass- produced violins.
How to Sell
Step 1: Evaluation
- Take good pictures of your instrument (front & back).
- Email/Text to our shop email: info@laviolinshop.com
Text: 1-251-292-1957.
Step 2: LAVS Response
We will let you know the value, and/or if we are interested in immediately purchasing.
Trade & Upgrade
Los Angeles Violin Shop is devoted to your musical development from your first, beginning instrument to your top-notch, professional instrument. As you advance musically, you will undoubtedly need an instrument that will support your growth.
We encourage you to take advantage of our trade-in program. Whether you’re upgrading sizes or launching your career, we offer generous trade-in credit.
At Los Angeles Violin Shop, we accept any instrument and/or bow purchased for upgrade* instrument at our shop in full trade in value with original receipt less re-conditioning fee (to cover any wear and tear repairs and new strings).

Selling Options
Consignment
Both parties sign a consignment contract. (from this moment LAVS insurance will cover condition and state of the instruments and bows)
Direct Selling
In some cases, LAVS offers to buy instruments outright
Trade-In
In some cases, LAVS offers to buy instruments outright
Consignment

Process
First, we will evaluate instruments and bows with our world-renowned authentication partners. After, we will gladly consider any instrument or bow for consignment.
After the authentication is complete, Owen Lee will determine the instrument or bow’s U.S. market value according to its uniqueness, condition, and provenance.
A contract will be drawn clearly stating the details, including consignment duration and optimal net profit, under which the instrument/bow would be sold.
Reasons to Consign Your Instruments and Bows to LAVS
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- KNOWLEDGE: LAVS knows instruments. Our authentication partners are internationally recognized as being the best in their field.
- CRAFTSMANSHIP: LAVS’ workshop demonstrates highly-skilled restorations and craftsmanship.
- INTERNATIONAL CLIENTELE: Los Angeles boasts one of the largest markets for fine stringed instruments. Additionally, Owen maintains a diverse network of contacts and clientele around the world.
- NO FEES: LAVS does not charge restoration fees up front. We will include it in our contracted, agreed-upon price.
- CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: To ensure client satisfaction, LAVS always sells instruments / bows in their most optimal states possible. LAVS does not sell instruments simply “as is” or in poor conditions.
- INSURANCE INCLUDED: LAVS covers the insurance of all consigned instruments and bows.
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Trade-In

Trade-In Policy
100% Trade-In Policy on LA Violin Shop’s Instruments
Conditioning Fees
Violin: $200 or up to 10% of paid instrument price, whichever is greater
Viola: $250 or up to 10% of paid instrument price, whichever is greater
Cello: $350 or up to 10% of paid instrument price, whichever is greater
Trade-In Terms and Conditions
You must have purchased the original instrument or outfit directly from Los Angeles Violin Shop.
Trade-in credit may only be applied towards the purchase of the same type of instrument (e.g. violin credit can only be used towards the purchase of another violin) and may not be applied to electric instruments, consignments or accessories. Trade-in credit from multiple instruments may not be combined.
Trade-in credit may not be eligible toward the purchase of already highly discounted, special offers.
Credit may not be combined with any other discount or promotional offer.
A depreciation fee may apply if the instrument has had significant damage such as cracks.
LA Violin Shop reserves the right to change all policies at any time and refuse an instrument/bow for trade-in due to excessive wear, damage, or any other condition at Los Angeles Violin Shop’s sole discretion.
Los Angeles Violin Shop reserves the right to refuse any trade-in instrument or bow that has been subjected to abuse, damage, or repair by unauthorized person(s). Cases and accessories are ineligible for trade-in.
Instruments Not Purchased at LA Violin Shop
Whenever possible we will try to accommodate customers with trade-ins from other shops. If you would like to trade in an instrument you purchased elsewhere towards a LA Violin Shop instrument, please call us at 213-471-2124. Please note that each situation is unique and we are not able to accept all trade-ins. However, the Los Angeles Violin Shop staff promises to do their best to present a trade-in option towards a Los Angeles Violin Shop instrument.