Go slow, get it right

[wanderer]

Too many times you hear about someone on vacation that goes to a presentation and becomes an owner. Folks, don't let this be you!

If you like the product at the tour, great. Get home and do some research. Don't believe the spiel about "today only", "never available anywhere else" and all the other sales talk.

Determine whether that resort/ownership is what suits you best. Consider the alternatives and whether committing to an ownership is in your best interest over the long term. Will your vacation habits change? What about changes to your immediate family?

When you settle on a resort/ownership, research prices. Not asking prices, but actual completed auctions on eBay. This will give you a good idea of the actual price you can expect to pay. Closing costs will need to be figured into that, and potentially current year maintenance fees.

Be certain to call the resort prior to making any agreement with a seller. The resort can verify the seller's ownership, whether their fees are paid up, if a special assessment has been scheduled, and can explain the specific usage you would be entitled to if you bought the offered week. They should also be able to tell you what the transfer fee is if you buy from a current owner.

Please, perform your due diligence so that you don't end up paying good money for something that is not a good fit for you!

[GateKeeper]

As always, we welcome this kind of positive encouragement. There's nothing wrong with timeshare, just some sales methods that lend themselves to the problems people run into. Before you go on any "tour", print the above advice and stick it on your luggage!