Selecting an instrument for practice at home is essential in order to get the most out of your weekly piano lessons.
It is only through repetition and exploration on an instrument available to you daily, would you gain the reawarding improvements and learning.
The choices are:
1. Digital Pianos
2. Acoustic Pianos
3. Hire a Piano
Digital Pianos
In the last 20 years, it seems that Digital Pianos have become very popular as has other electronics. As technology advances, these pianos do sound pleasant and some mimic the action of a piano. The bare minimum specification for a student digital piano is 88 keys, that have weighted hammer action.
As with all things electronic, their life is dependent on how they are looked after, and as with all electronic components, they never are made to last forever. I choose the Yamaha P-series because they are reasonable in weight for portability which is the one advantage of such an instrument. The piano has never been a portable music instrument like others, until the advent of the Digital Piano.
Digital Pianos can be found secondhand online ranging from $350 upwards. New Digital Pianos from $600 - $800. Purchase with it, a stand, bench and sutain pedal.
There are models that can have their own cabinets. These may costs more ($1000+) providing more a more stable structure. They are not designed for portability but to be placed in the home like a piece of furniture.
Perhaps look online, or visit a store nearby such as: https://www.australianpianowarehouse.com.au/
Acoustic Pianos
The traditional mechanical acoustic piano is unsurpassed in both sound, playing pleasure and longevity.
Acoustic pianos range from a student uprrights to professional, the Baby Grand (less than 5' 6") and the Grand Piano and of course the beautiful Concert Grands which are only befitting of a Concert Hall. A new Yamaha Upright (no I don't work for them but they make quality instruments at reasonable prices) for students can start at $2500. Professional models start at $8000 and above. Like cars, the more you spend, the more pleasure you may be rewarded by sound, playing action and the life of mechanical components.
To select a piano, it is personal preference on the sound (as they vary from warm lovely tones of German pianos to brightly clear Japanese brands). Always consult a Piano Tuner before purchasing a secondhand piano. Pianos like us humans, suffer wear and tear dependant on age, conditions and how much tender loving care they have been afforded.
Start your research by visiting a reputable piano store, such as Piano Sales in Richmond, Melbourne: http://www.melbournepianosales.com.au/?gclid=Cj0KCQiA8_PfBRC3ARIsAOzJ2urDqQcBcXKEL1yAaKj1GO0FxqFzql8i1jbPEdxWbrtFAZoHc8xhS24aAsStEALw_wcB
Hire a Piano
There are companies that hire acoustic pianos for your home. This is good for a try before buying perhaps. Or if you are undecided if you would like an acoustic piano or a digital piano. Stores such as below offer piano hire in Melbourne (Not endorsing this company as I have no affiliation):
https://www.abcpianos.com.au/piano-rental-melbourne/177-long-term-piano-rental-melbourne.html