Consoles like this one are the smallest size upright that I recommend. Spinets (about 36" tall) have a different action design that gives poorer repetition and control.
The biggest concern for any student is that the instrument must not have obstacles to learning. Playing the piano involves developing fine motor control in the hands and fingers. Most older pianos take a different amount of pressure to push down every key (due to wear), and so even a music teacher would have trouble playing a smooth, quiet scale. It's like learning to drive on a car with play in the steering wheel, and brakes you have to pump.
Over and over again, I see students give up after a few weeks on such instruments, and then the parents are relieved that they didn't "waste" money on a new (or newer) piano.
So a Steinway Model F could be a good instrument, if it's in good condition. In your price range, you can get a new, full-sized upright (48") with a ten-year-warranty in perfect condition. Have a technician evaluate any used piano before purchase, and let them do a full or partial regulation as needed if you buy it.
--Cy--
