Location, location, location!
Whether you are buying a timeshare, buying a home, or even renting a property,
the location is very important. Keep in mind that "hot spots", such as major tourist destinations, can come
with a hefty price tag. By expanding your options and moving just outside the center of the city's attractions
you can save a lot of money.
Understand how your timeshare works
Most timeshares have terms when it comes to when you can visit your destination such as fixed weeks, floating
weeks and flex weeks. Fixed weeks are when you can only visit your timeshare on a set week of the year. Floating
weeks require you to contact your timeshare resort to choose the week you'd like to stay and is typically based
on availability. Flex weeks require you to choose your reservation based on a block of the year such as a
season. In addition, there are typically resort fees, such as maintenance, in addition to the price of your
timeshare.
Avoid using a real estate agent if possible
By finding timeshare resellers you can avoid commission fees that real estate agents charge. This can save you a
great deal in the end. Plus, by working directly with timeshare resellers you don't have to worry about
high-pressure sales tactics.
Do your homework
Find out everything you can about the timeshare you are interested in. Compare the price with other timeshares
to make sure you won't be paying more than you should. Make sure your timeshare offers you accommodations in
vacation spots you actually want to visit. Learn about all the fees associated with your timeshare so you aren't
surprised on the day you sign.
Beware of timeshare scams
First of all, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Watch out for timeshare companies promising
lavish gifts just for attending their timeshare seminar. These seminars tend to be very lengthy and if there
is a prize, it's often not what was originally promised and may even come with a fee just to receive it. The
timeshare brokers also may use hard-sell tactics to get you to purchase something you really don't want.
Must Read Tips for Selling Your Timeshare
Location, location, location! Get the most out of your timeshare. If you have a timeshare in a highly desired
area, make sure you are getting your full worth. Compare prices of other timeshares nearby and find out what
amenities are offered to make sure you get top dollar.
Timeshare availability
Selling your timeshare during peak seasons can almost guarantee you a sale. Availability during these times
greatly increases your chance of a sale because there are more people looking to travel, decreasing the
availability of accommodations.
Make it stand out
What sets your timeshare apart from others? New construction or renovations are always a plus, but having extra
luxury features that can't be found just anywhere can really set your timeshare apart from others. Added
conveniences, such as stores and attractions, can help make your timeshare seem more appealing than others.
Understanding your timeshare
It's important you know the type of timeshare you own and all the terms before you sell it, which can have a
great impact on your sale price. If you have a deeded ownership in the property, you physically own a portion
of the resort's property. If you have a right to use (RTU) contract you do not own the property, you are simply
leasing it, but still have the right to sell it. RTU contracts come with a length of time you can use the
property, such as 20 years. When you sell it, the new owner gets the amount of time left on the contract.
Due to this fact, RTUs tend to get much less money the longer you wait to sell since the value is decreasing
on a daily basis.
How to sell
You can use a real estate agent, however, keep in mind that many charge a fee for listing your timeshare and
then take a commission on the sale. The commissions tend to be larger than that of a traditional real estate
sale. These fees will vary from agent to agent, so find one that seems trustworthy and has your best interests
in mind. If you list your timeshare yourself you can save on these fees of course, but it may be harder to sell
your property.
Timeshares make great investment properties and can provide years of worry-free vacationing knowing that you
have a nice place in your favorite destination choice. If you choose wisely, when it comes time to sell your
timeshare you should be able to make out nicely. Simply follow these tips and use some common sense and you
will have nothing to worry about.