Trade-In Program & Policies

Effective Date: September 28, 2025

Welcome! We love helping musicians take the next step. Our trade-in values are competitive and transparent compared to other shops, and the process is friendly and straightforward.

We don’t require a minimum upgrade amount. Your trade-in credit can be used toward any instrument priced at or above your original purchase. With a wide selection of violins, violas, and cellos—from advancing student to professional grade—you can upgrade at your own pace and choose the instrument that truly fits you

Benefits of Our Trade-In Program

  • We don’t require a minimum upgrade. Your trade-in credit can be used toward any instrument at or above your original purchase price.

  • No time limit — original owner with receipt can trade in anytime

  • Hundreds of choices — curated violins, violas, and cellos from advancing student to professional

  • Popular, well-known brands — trusted makers; once you buy your first instrument from us, you have lifetime trade-in/upgrade access within our curated lineup

  • Normal wear & tear is fine — we only adjust credit for significant damage or repairs

Trade-in value ranges

  • Instruments valued $500–$999: typically 50%–60% trade-in credit

  • Instruments valued $1,000+: typically 60%–70% trade-in credit

Condition adjustment

Credit is reduced for misuse, damage, missing parts, or required repairs (normal wear and tear is fine; major damage or neglect reduces credit). Trade-ins are evaluated in-store by our staff, and Vince Violins reserves the exclusive right—at our sole discretion—to determine condition and final trade-in value. We may decline instruments with major damage that is beyond repair or not economically repairable.

Fees

  • Violin / Viola: $80 trade-in fee

  • Cello: $150 trade-in fee

Eligibility

Trade-In Eligibility (Instruments Only)

  • Original owner who purchased the instrument from Vince Violins (proof of purchase required).

  • Instrument trade-ins only — bows, cases, bags, and accessories are not eligible.

  • Strings previously installed on the instrument do not count toward trade-in value (strings and other setup consumables are valued at $0)

  • Trade-in credits are not valid for discounted items, special offers, or in conjunction with other discounts.

  • Trade-in credit may be applied only to the same instrument type (violin→violin, viola→viola, cello→cello) and cannot be used for accessories, bows, cases, or repairs.

What to bring

  • The instrument (with standard fittings installed)

  • Proof of purchase and a photo ID

Notes: Trade-in credit is applied toward an instrument purchase at Vince Violins and isn’t redeemable for cash. Policies may be updated; please confirm details at the time of appraisal.