Key factors influencing a used stair lift's value
When assessing the resale value of a stair lift, it's critical to understand that it is not a high-value asset like a car. The market is limited, and many variables significantly decrease the price you can expect. Here are the most important considerations:
- Type of Stairlift: This is the most crucial factor. Straight stairlifts, designed for a single flight of straight stairs, use standardized rails that are relatively easy for companies to refurbish and refit for another home. Conversely, curved stairlifts are custom-made for a specific staircase's unique twists and turns. The rail is not reusable, meaning only the chair and carriage can be salvaged for parts, dramatically decreasing the resale value to almost nothing.
- Age and Condition: Like all equipment, stairlifts lose value over time. Newer models, typically less than three years old, that are in good working condition are most likely to be considered for buyback programs. Older or discontinued models often don't meet current safety standards and are generally scrapped by companies. A verifiable service history showing regular maintenance can also increase a buyer's confidence.
- Brand and Model: Reputable, popular brands like Acorn, Bruno, and Handicare often hold slightly better resale value due to known reliability and availability of parts. Some models are simply more in demand and have more accessible components for refurbishment. Older or lesser-known brands may have no resale market.
- Installation and Decommissioning Costs: Any company buying back a used stairlift will subtract their costs for removal, transportation, and potential refurbishment from their offer. These costs significantly reduce the final payout to the seller. When selling privately, you must factor in the expense of having a qualified engineer professionally remove the unit.
- Warranties and Service Agreements: A new stairlift from a dealer comes with a warranty and ongoing service options, which provides peace of mind for buyers. Used stairlifts, especially those sold privately, typically lack a warranty, making potential buyers wary of unforeseen repair costs. This lack of assurance further suppresses the resale price.
Where to sell your used stair lift
Selling to a stairlift company
For a hassle-free experience, selling to a professional stairlift company is often the best route, even if it yields a lower price. Here's why:
- Expert Removal: A professional company will send qualified engineers to properly and safely remove the equipment, ensuring no damage to your home.
- Legitimate Resale Channel: Reputable dealers have the resources to inspect, refurbish, and certify used lifts for future customers, ensuring compliance with safety standards.
- Realistic Expectations: They will provide a fair offer based on the lift's true market value, factoring in refurbishment and operational costs.
Selling privately
Selling your stairlift on platforms like Craigslist, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace can sometimes lead to a slightly higher price, but it comes with significant challenges:
- Customization Issues: It's difficult to find a buyer with a straight staircase that precisely matches your stairlift's rail length and configuration.
- Risk for Buyers: Private buyers lack the reassurance of a professional installation, warranty, or service support. They are also often unaware of the safety regulations involved.
- Professional Removal Required: You will need to hire a qualified professional to uninstall the lift, which can be costly and requires proper handling of the equipment.
New vs. Used Straight Stairlift Comparison
| Feature | New Straight Stairlift | Certified Pre-Owned Straight Stairlift |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Cost Range | $3,000–$8,000+ | $2,200–$4,000+ |
| Warranty | Manufacturer's full warranty, typically multi-year | Limited warranty, often 1 year, from the refurbishing dealer |
| Installation | Professional installation included by the dealer | Professional installation by the dealer required for certification |
| Condition | Brand new with the latest features | Rigorously inspected, refurbished, and tested by a dealer |
| Customization | Full range of options available, including power swivel seats | Limited options, must match available refurbished inventory |
| Reliability | Longest expected service life | Good reliability, but not as long as a new unit |
How to get an offer
To determine the potential buyback offer for a straight stairlift, gather all the information and contact a few local mobility companies. Provide them with the following details:
- Manufacturer and Model: This is often found on the user manual or a label on the chair.
- Age of the Unit: The purchase date is critical.
- Service History: Any maintenance records will help.
- Overall Condition: Note any cosmetic or mechanical issues.
Conclusion
For anyone wondering how much is a used stair lift worth, the simple answer is often much less than you hope. Custom curved stairlifts have virtually no resale value, while straight models can be sold to a refurbishing dealer for a small amount—likely a few hundred dollars for a relatively new unit. Your best course of action is to have realistic expectations and to contact several reputable stairlift companies in your area to see if they offer a buyback program or can handle the removal and disposal of the equipment.
What to do with an old stairlift
- If your stairlift is an older or discontinued model, it may not be suitable for resale and could be scrapped for parts.
- Check with local mobility companies about removal services, which may cost a few hundred dollars depending on the complexity of the job.
- For a very recent, straight stairlift, approach the original installer or other dealers about a potential buyback. The return will be minimal after they account for removal and refurbishment.
- Consider donating parts of the lift (like the chair and carriage) to a charity if they have a need for them.
