Timeshare Authority Blog - News, Tips and Information from the Timeshare Industry» Timeshare Resales

Twice the Excitement at Sell My Timeshare NOW this Week

Jason Tremblay — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 14:00:21 +0000

There’s a lot going on in upcoming weeks at Sell My Timeshare NOW. Watch for our release of the newest HOT 100 List, showing the timeshare resales and timeshare rentals that received the greatest number of offers to buy or rent in 2009.

We’ll be publishing that list via a media release; our timeshare news blog, The Timeshare Authority; and as a downloadable PDF report you can pick up with the release, on the blog, or on our website www.sellmytimesharenow.com. The list is always exciting to see because it unveils where consumers are spending their money, and in so many ways that is the truest indicator of which timeshare resorts genuinely deserve to be called “HOT” properties.

Secondly, this is an important time industry-wide, as the annual ARDA Convention & Exposition kicks off in Las Vegas, Nevada. Hosted at the Venetian Resort and Casino, an amazing venue, this year’s event will attract timeshare industry leaders from around the world. Andy Sernovitz, past CEO of the Word of Mouth Marketing Association, will be the event’s keynote speaker. I’ll be part of a panel discussion called, “Website Concept and Marketing Revisited” and the entire event will be packed with opportunities for learning, exchange, networking, and building a better timeshare industry.

So stay tuned, be sure to check in here on The Timeshare Authority blog each day, and we’ll keep sharing with you all the timeshare news and information and everything you need to know to make better decisions about buying, renting or selling timeshare.

Here’s a sneak preview of The Rhythmics, that will be entertaining at the ARDA Awards Program Wednesday, March 17, as part of the 2010 Gala.

Critical Questions to Ask When You Buy Timeshare or Timeshare Resale

Jason Tremblay — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 14:00:32 +0000

People who are buying homes and residential real estate right now are doing so because this is an excellent time to buy. And many consumers are finding the same to be true when it comes to buying timeshares, timeshare resales, or other vacation ownership real estate.

Timeshare companies and timeshare developers who sell new timeshare are working hard to earn the timeshare sale … you may find them more negotiable than ever. But the best deals are usually available in buying timeshare resales from belt-tightening, budget conscious timeshare owners, who are anxious to sell their timeshare in order to get out from under annual timeshare maintenance fees and/or property taxes.

So if you are interested in taking advantage of the better-than-ever deals available in timeshare and timeshare resales, here are some important questions you need to ask before you sign on the dotted line.

Applies When You Are Buying Timeshare Either New or as a Timeshare Resale:

Make sure you know the resort name and exact location. Pay special attention to timeshare resorts that have been built in phases because the description of the Phase I property could be very different from Phase V property. Know the specific address of the timeshare unit or the timeshare property usage you are buying.
Know the annual maintenance fees, how much they have increased over the years, and the date of the last increase.
Find out what the property taxes are, if they are included in your maintenance fee, and how and when you pay them if you are responsible for making the payment yourself.
In a points based system, know the number of points you are buying.
Know whether you are buying a fixed or floating timeshare interval.
How many rooms are in the unit, what is the square footage, and can you see a floor plan?
Find out both how many people the unit sleeps as well as the number of bedrooms. These will not be the same number!
Ask about the view from your unit. Are you beachside? Have a scenic view of the mountains? Or are you staring at the parking lot? Desirability of view can affect the value of the timeshare.

Applies Specifically When You Are Buying Timeshare Resale:

Learn what, if any, privileges of timeshare ownership cannot be transferred in a timeshare resale.
Know how you will handle the timeshare title transfer, the escrow account, and the closing contract.

Applies Specifically When You Are Buying Timeshare New From the Resort or Developer:

Know the exact sales price you will be paying and the duration and interest rate of the timeshare mortgage if you are using developer financing.
Know if you can transfer to another financing source without paying a penalty on developer financing and if there are time limits for doing this.
Find out if there are perks, loyalty programs, or benefits you can take advantage of because you have purchased a new timeshare at the developer’s full price.

And while all of these are critical questions to ask before you buy timeshare or a timeshare resale, based on the situation, there may be many other important questions to ask as well. To make sure you wind up owning a timeshare that fits both your vacation needs and your budget, do three simple things:

Take your time, don’t let anyone rush you.
Do your own research so that you know exactly what you are buying and the terms of the sale.
Do not “settle” for a property that is almost-right. There are too many great deals in timeshare sales and timeshare resales for you to buy anything less than a timeshare that is ideal for you and your family to enjoy for many happy years.

Who Wrote the Book on Timeshare?

Jason Tremblay — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 21:23:50 +0000

When it comes to the definitive college-level resource on timeshare, you might say that Dr. Tammie Kaufman (Assistant Professor, Rosen College of Hospitality Management at the University of Central Florida); Professor Conrad Lashley (Professor of Leisure Retailing with the Nottingham Business School); and Lisa Ann Schreier (the Timeshare Crusader) have written the book on the subject.

Published by Butterworth-Heinemann, an imprint of Elsevier, the book is titled: Timeshare Management – The Key Issues for Hospitality Managers.

One of the exciting things about the book’s publication is that it serves as yet another anchor, reinforcing the strength, staying power, and legitimacy of timeshares as a vacation product. Timeshares, whether as new timeshare sales, timeshare resales, or timeshare rentals, are genuinely a proven and established choice for vacation ownership.

As co-author, Lisa Ann Schreier says:

“I was thrilled when I was asked to co-author this textbook. Several university programs had been using one or both of my previous books ‘Surviving a Timeshare Presentation’ and ‘Timeshare Vacations for Dummies’, but those are aimed to consumers. Timeshare students really had a need for a comprehensive text that dealt with the business end of timeshare. I’m very encouraged by the feedback that I’ve received on the book. The students that I work with on a regular basis really seem to grasp the basics quite quickly and are full of wonderful ideas and thoughts on how to move the timeshare industry forward. This generation is, in one way or another, the future of the timeshare industry, and I am proud to be involved with this textbook that serves as an entry to the issues that the industry is facing.”

For anyone involved in the timeshare industry as well as timeshare owners and prospective timeshare buyers who want to understand the dynamics of this industry on a deeper level, is a valuable resource.

More about Timeshare Management

Featured in the book are key learning points, learning objectives, international case studies, and reflective practices for each chapter that are designed to stimulate further discussion and develop skills.

The timeshare textbook covers:

The Community

Marketing Vacation Ownership

The Sales Process

The Role of Exchange Companies

Service Quality Management

The book is available as a paperback and at Amazon.com as a Kindle edition for wireless delivery. Find out more here: http://www.timeshareinsights.com/large_item.php?sku_id=3

Snowed In? Guide to Shopping for a Timeshare While You Watch it Snow

Jason Tremblay — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 14:00:38 +0000

Are you, like much of the US, snowed in or about to be? One of the best ways to deal with cabin fever is planning what you are going to do when you can finally get out of the ‘cabin’ again. A snow day is an excellent time to start building the structure that is missing in your life and that causes you to skip vacations and fail to take the time off you genuinely need and deserve.

Schedule your vacation time. Commit to it with the same discipline you use for other things in life, and then consider doing the one thing that truly makes it easier to stick to your plans — buy a timeshare resale.

Why do timeshares make vacationing easier?

For starters, you are more likely to take a vacation when you have already made a financial commitment to your vacation accommodations. In other words, when the room is already paid for, why wouldn’t you go?

Prepaid vacation accommodations also mean that you can take a vacation at times in the future when money might be too tight for you to do so.

Timeshare vacations give you a starting point. Either you know which resort you will be staying in, or you know in which network of resorts you will be using your vacation property as a timeshare exchange.

Second only to lack of time to take a vacation, people cite lack of time to plan a vacation as the reason they don’t work in much-needed relaxation days. Buying timeshare means you do the decision-making once and then enjoy a lifetime of easy-to-plan vacations.

Buying timeshare lets you lock in the price of your vacation accommodations; buying timeshare resale means you do so at a substantial savings.

How to avoid timeshare scam:

Buy timeshare resale through a timeshare company with an established history of timeshare sales and timeshare rentals. If a company promise’s sound too good to be true, be on guard for timeshare scam.

Choose a timeshare resale company that can show you testimonials from satisfied customers. (See: http://www.sellmytimesharenow.com/owners/index/content/testimonials/)

Select a timeshare company that has established professional relationships within the industry, such as membership in ARDA, CRDA, and the National Timeshare Owners Association.

Look for a timeshare company with a noteworthy website that clearly demonstrates its website prominence and industry dominance.

Don’t let anyone rush you. There are plenty of great deals on timeshare resales, either through a timeshare broker or a by-owner sale. You can find the vacation ownership proposition that is right for you, your vacation style, and your budget.

Wherever you are, it may be blowing snow and generally miserable. Today is a great day to be dreaming about a little beach time in your near future and timeshare resales are an affordable way to turn that daydream into a sand-between-your-toes reality.

Will You See Your Shadow at a Pennsylvania Timeshare Today?

Jason Tremblay — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 14:00:11 +0000

This was the morning for ole’ Punxsutawney Phil to look for his shadow. No shadow, then spring is just around the corner. But if he sees his shadow, then the prognosticating groundhog promises at least six more weeks of winter.

The tradition of a weather-casting rodent (known in some cultures as a “whistling pig”) in Gobblers Knob dates back to at least 1887 in Pennsylvania. Based on the holiday of Candlemas, the event traces its early roots to traditions brought to the area by German settlers whose ancestors have perhaps celebrated similar traditions for thousands of years.

Each year the festivities surrounding the event seem to get better and better. And although you have already missed such community fun as the Oreo stacking contest, the ice carving on Mahoning Street, the groundhog beer dinner, hayrides, jogs, a groundhog wine dinner, and even Phil’s family picnic this year, it doesn’t mean that it is too early to start planning your pilgrimage to Pennsylvania for next year.

Opportunities in Pennsylvania Timeshare Resale and Timeshare Rental

From historic Philadelphia to Hershey to Lake Erie, the Poconos to the Alleghenies to the Pennsylvania Wilds, Pennsylvania is a diverse state both geographically and culturally. It is also, a state loaded with great timeshare vacation destinations, and for millions of Americans, excellent drive-to vacation opportunities.

If you already know this great state for vacations and family fun, then a Pennsylvania timeshare resale could be an ideal way for you to lock in the cost of a lifetime of vacations at an extremely competitive rate. And if you have yet to discover Pennsylvania’s mountains, theme parks, charming farm communities, and historic American heritage, then a Pennsylvania timeshare rental could be a excellent way to get started.

Timeshare Sales and the Great Reality Check

Jason Tremblay — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 14:00:20 +0000

Last week, when a popular newspaper ran an article bemoaning timeshare ownership, they told the stories of unhappy timeshare owners. First, there was a woman who bought a timeshare four years ago and has yet to use it. Then came the timeshare owners whose job loss, compounded by the decision to start their own business, left them wishing they could get the timeshare company to “take the contract back.” And don’t forget the couple going through a divorce, who could no longer afford their timeshare.

These are very real stories, each valid, stressful, and sad. Worst of all, they are situations that are multiplied many times over, especially in light of today’s unstable economy and dwindling job market.

…But with that said, let’s get real.

How many products or services do you purchase and count on being able to quickly and easily find a buyer for, if you change your mind?

How often do people, when confronted with job loss, divorce, illness, or any of a number of other life events wish they hadn’t bought their home or hadn’t purchased that new car? How typical is it that any of us in a tough economic situation would regret the big entertainment system, the boat, the travel trailer, or any other luxury expenditure that left us wishing we had saved more, spent less, and done something differently in the past to have put us on better financial footing today?

When timeshares are criticized for having “iron clad” contracts, you have to wonder what type of contract one proposes they have instead? If you buy a home, buy or lease a vehicle, rent an apartment, or even just have a credit card, you deal with some pretty “iron clad” contracts. Good fences make good neighbors and typically, good contracts protect you in far more ways than they restrict you.

Two Sides to the Story of Timeshare Ownership and Timeshare Resale

Why single out one industry and look for unhappy consumers as if that tells the whole story? Yes, there are many timeshares for sale on the secondary market and this probably won’t be a record-breaking year for the sale of new timeshares, either.

There are also too many homes for sale in most neighborhoods, too many used luxury cars for resale on most car lots, and far too many diamond engagement rings hocked at the end of a broken marriage. Does that make owning a home, buying a car, or getting married all negative things?

Let’s back off painting timeshares with the “bad guy” brush. Solid industry research confirms that there are millions—millions—of timeshare owners who are satisfied with their purchase and use and enjoy it regularly. There are also rock solid timeshare developers as well as some reliable timeshare resale companies working to serve the needs of the secondary market.

If Only There Were More Nude Timeshares

Jason Tremblay — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 14:56:34 +0000

The American Association for Nude Recreation is sending out press releases suggesting nude vacations as a way around the continually rising cost of checked baggage when you fly. United Airlines has now joined Delta and Continental in raising fees for checked bags.

An Orlando Sentinel blog, Tourism Central Florida, quotes Erich Schuttauf, executive director of The American Association for Nude Recreation, saying, “All you’ll need for the week (sunscreen, cap, sunglasses, shoes and toiletries) can fit in a small carry on. If more air travelers take a stand and a Nakation in 2010, it could send a message to the airlines using baggage fees as a way to get more money from their passengers.”

Nude Timeshares?

Back in 2007, there were rumors of a resort property that might be transformed into a timeshare resort for nudists, however a call to Carolyn Hawkins, public affairs director for the AANR, confirms that of their association’s 250 affiliated clubs in the United States and Canada, none are timeshare resorts. Carolyn explained that some clubs sell condo ownership to their members meaning that the individual owners can then use their condos as vacation rentals, however none are true timeshare ownership.

While it is possible that there are some privately owned nude resorts that sell timeshare ownership in their properties, Sell My Timeshare NOW does not have any in its extensive inventory of timeshare resales and timeshare rentals. Probably the next closest thing would be timeshares in resort areas where you will find nearby clothing optional beaches.

Until then you may have to pay to check your luggage for a timeshare vacation.

Important Reminder for Disney Timeshare Owners

Jason Tremblay — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 14:00:02 +0000

You could be visiting a Disney theme park free this year. And if you are a Disney Vacation Club Member, (Disney timeshare owner) or you have a Disney timeshare rental, then you will be enjoying the benefits and savings that go along with Disney timeshare, Disney timeshare resales, and Disney timeshare rentals on top of your theme park ticket savings.

Give a Day, Get a Disney Day

For 2010, Disney is launching its new “Give a Day, Get a Disney Day” promotion designed to encourage volunteerism. In order to participate in the program you must sign up online at: http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/disneyparks/en_US/WhatWillYouCelebrate/index?name=Give-A-Day-Get-A-Disney-Day

You and up to eight members of your family can participate (children must be age six or older) by volunteering to serve in one of hundreds of volunteer opportunities available across the US. Once your participation in a designated volunteer activity has been confirmed by the HandsOn Network, (the volunteer-focused arm of Points of Light Institute), you will receive an email with instructions on how to print your Disney theme park voucher. Full details are available at the Disney Give a Day, Get a Disney Day website.

If you use your free pass at Disneyland® Resort in California, you can redeem your voucher for a 1-day ticket to either Disneyland® Park or Disney’s California Adventure® Park. If you choose Walt Disney World® Resort in Florida, you can redeem your voucher for a 1-day ticket to one of the follow: Magic Kingdom® theme park, Epcot®, Disney’s Animal Kingdom® theme park, or Disney’s Hollywood Studios™ theme park. (Tickets are not valid for admission to a Disney Water Park admission, DisneyQuest® Indoor Interactive Theme Park or Disney’s World Wide of Sports® Complex.)

With this kind of savings, a Disney vacation becomes more affordable than ever. Now image how much you can save by buying right-priced Disney timeshare resales or enjoying a Disney timeshare rental?

Across the US, Disney has been sharing its message about the program. Here’s a YouTube video of the Disney Give a Day, Get a Disney Day promotion in Dallas, Texas.

More Reasons for a Timeshare Vacation as Theme Parks Thank Armed Forces

Jason Tremblay — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 14:00:36 +0000

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment (formerly Busch Entertainment Corporation) has announced it will continue its long-running, “Here’s to the Heroes” promotion.

Through this promotion, men and women who are active members of any branch of the US military received a free single-day ticket to any one of the SeaWorld Parks. This includes, SeaWorld Orlando, SeaWorld San Antonio, SeaWorld San Diego, the two Busch Garden parks (Tampa Bay, Florida and Williamsburg, Virginia) Sesame Place (Pennsylvania), Water Country USA (Williamsburg), and Adventure Island (Tampa). Making the benefits even better, the member of the armed forces not only gets free admission, but can get one free admission each for up to three direct dependents.

The promotion applies to any active duty, activated or drilling reservist, or National Guardsman. Excluded from the offer is admission to: Discovery Cove, Aquatica, and the Christmas Town portion of Busch Gardens in Williamsburg.

Opportunities for Everyone in Timeshare Resales and Timeshare Rentals

Discounts such as these to our men and women in the military are well deserved. And to make vacation planning even better, there are also great timeshare deals in timeshare resales and timeshare rentals available for anyone at all of these popular destinations:

Orlando timeshare

San Antonio timeshare

Tampa timeshare

Florida timeshare

Pennsylvania timeshare

Williamsburg timeshare

Spain Timeshare and the Temptations to Buy Timeshare During a Vacation

Jason Tremblay — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 14:00:01 +0000

Benidorm, Spain, a resort town on the Mediterranean Sea, is the site of an alleged timeshare scam which has resulted in nine arrests and possibly more to follow. Police investigators have discovered 130,000 € in funds defrauded through a timeshare scam, but say the amount may increase as the investigation continues.

The troubles for Spain timeshares continue, as it has been less than a month since some 22 people were arrested in a timeshare scam in Málaga and Tenerife. Accused of swindling timeshare owners out of money paid to cover the transfer of ownership, the timeshare sales transactions turned out to be fictitious offers to the timeshare owners.

Spain Timeshare and the Temptations to Buy Timeshare During a Vacation

Spain timeshares and Spanish timeshare resorts are some of the most beautiful in the world. Their desirability and the appeal of vacationing in coastal Spain draws millions of tourists and visitors annually from around the globe—many of whom apparently let their guard down when it comes to making sound timeshare buying or timeshare selling decisions.

I recently read a timeshare buying tip that advised people to never buy timeshare during a vacation. The advice makes sense. During a relaxing vacation, a consumer may not be in his or her best business and negotiating mindset and the luxury and relaxation of a great resort can go a long way towards luring a buyer into a purchase that may not be right for him in the end.

Buying timeshare on the resale market affords you the opportunity to think about your purchase, reflect on the bigger picture, even seek advice from other timeshare owners you know or your financial advisor, tax professional, or attorney before you make your big purchase.