Timeshare Points Systems Demystified
Friday, August 12, 2005
Points-based timeshare ownership offers owners more flexibility, but there are some things about points systems that any timeshare owner should know.
The concept of points-based vacation ownership is one of the most significant innovations within the timeshare industry in recent years. The goal of this article is to illuminate some of the pros and cons frequently encountered by timeshare owners who buy into a points-based system of timeshare ownership.
First of all, timeshare owners who buy points often do not own them. Most resort chains/exchange companies hold these points in trust. This can pose advantages and disadvantages depending on the owner’s particular needs and preferences. There are some exceptions to this statement, but by and large this is the case.
Points can be redeemable for a number of things, including airfare, hotels, and car rentals. Whereas this is an obvious convenience, points owners can expect to pay fees each time they use their points. For example, using points for plane tickets, renting a car at the airport, and staying overnight at a hotel could cost about $100.00 in accumulated fees.
Possibly worst of all, inflation often occurs with timeshare points. For example, if you have 150,000 points, you might be able to exchange these for a particular resort this year, but what about next year, when the resort you want suddenly costs 200,000 points?
Also, there may be additional restrictions imposed on the transfer of points between owners. This might make things difficult on the resale market. It is best to ask the timeshare seller or the home resort about any restrictions regarding the sale of timeshare points.
Though some difficulties arise, a points-based timeshare allows very flexible vacationing. Herein lies the real beauty of this type of ownership. Stay for as little or as long as you want! Points allow much greater freedom in determining a vacation itinerary.
Again, timeshare points can also be redeemed for a number of important vacation necessities, like hotel rooms, auto rentals, and airfare. Some theme parks even accept points toward tickets to their attractions.
Like everything else in the world of timeshare, a shrewd timeshare owner will learn how to benefit from these opportunities.