Buying a Timeshare – Things to Consider

Timeshare accommodations are fabulous. I have a timeshare and we really prefer to stay in this environment when traveling, especially with 3 small children. With a kitchen and laundry room, this really eases the pressure while on a trip. There are the comforts of home but living in an exotic location. There are usually numerous planned activities for the whole family too.

A stay at a luxury timeshare resort property can be a most pleasant experience, especially for families. This environment is luxurious and convenient apartment-style living while on your vacation including a kitchen and laundry room. Often the resorts have planned activities so instead of wondering what you need to do and where you need to go every single day, an option is simply to enjoy the resort.

What I don't like is - we now have numerous annual fees in conjunction with our timeshare purchase (even though it's paid off) and that will not change. My timeshare has now become a liability to me. I have had it on the market over a year, with no inquiries. I recently attended a presentation where the company would "take it off my hands" for $2000. UGH! Don't get me wrong, the idea is sweet - a guaranteed vacation every year for the family, but now the travel industry is shaking up my original dream.

With a timeshare, there is an initial purchase, usually at least $12,000 and up. A number of timeshare companies are offering a point system to determine owner vacation options. Owners can choose how they use their points not only for the timeshare properties that are available but also for hotels that are in the network.

Recently, I have been pleased to find a wholesale vacation club membership where I have access to the same luxury condo weeks with live inventory and discounted airfares - including international flights. Choices on travel are not restricted to those properties on a list and the accommodations can be anywhere in the world with wholesale pricing. Plus, the annual fee is limited to $99 rather than $500 or more. Like these newer timeshare offer, you are buying points. These points can be used for timeshare resort stays, but also airfares, hotels, rental cars and for booking tee-times online. Plus, members do not have the responsibility of timeshare ownership like personal liens attached to you if maintenance fees go unpaid. Best of all, with the personal one-on-one service provided by the agents, you do not have to spend hours upon hours on the internet searching for the greatest deal and never really knowing if you got it. The membership that I endorse is offered at $1500, $6000 & $15,000 and then the membership points are awarded accordingly.

Recently, consumers have turned to self service in almost everything attempting to get the best prices, but travel really doesn't work like that. This membership also has a social community similar to Facebook for members to share their vacation experiences. Your vacation time is for creating memories, not wondering how you could have done a better job selecting the right accommodations. I recommend the professional touch for your travels with wholesale vacation membership.