Timeshare Owners... everyone has been warning you about timeshare resale scams but I want to take a minute to warn you about timeshare relief companies. On the outside, they all seem to offer a needed service... and in a very very few rare instances, they legitimately do but lets look at the whole picture even under the good situations!
First of all, they typically are preying on owners who have been trying to sell their timeshares unsuccessfully (typically, the lack of success has simply been due to either asking price, or chosen resale outlet!)They "pitch" to the timeshare owner that the timeshare is a liability, not an assett and they somehow convince an owner to pay a transfer fee (typically around $1,500.00) and then have the owner pay several years worth of maintenance fees (typically three to five) up front! And they say they are doing YOU a favor.
Let's ask ourselves a question.. if it is such a liability then why are they willing to take it off of my hands?
Another question... Why would I pay several years of maintenance fees plus the transfer fee, wind up with no vacations the next few years or no deed to a vacation and let them try to sell or rent it out and get money on top of what I gave them instead of me just paying my maintenance fees on schedule, use the timeshare while trying to sell it and not have to pay the upfront transfer fee? It makes no logically sense whatsoever!
Another question... If it is costing me too much to own it, does it really cost me less to wind up paying out the same costs of five years worth of usage all at once on top of the transfer fee?
If I bought my timeshare by a presentation that was geared emotionally rather then logically, why do I feel immune to being sold an idea like this emotionally rather then logically? Because when looking at it logically, it makes no sense whatsoever!
To be honest with you.. many transfer relief companies work like this.. They buy a list of names from a resale company of clients who paid to advertise their property but have not sold it. The resale company is happy to sell this list to the relief company because if they get you off of the back of the resale company, it is only to the benefit of the resale company. Now the transfer company either owns, or works through a negotiated deal with a transfer company. This transfer company makes no money if there are no timeshares being moved on the market. The relief company gives a PORTION of the transfer costs to the transfer company to redeed the property to a new name.. they just pocket the rest of what you pay them in the name of maintenance fees. All of those years worth of maintenance fees that you paid, will never ever make it to the HOA at all. Instead, the transfer company will place your deed into the name of an offshore company that is set up and designed to do nothing but go bankrupt. Now you just spent thousands of dollars on an emotional rollercoaster, again, the transfer company got paid to do their job and the relief company pocketed the HOA's maintenance fees for the next few years while using your property to raise their debt level enough to file bankruptcy.
The solution? There are no simple solutions but there are alternatives that are not so scammy and ill fated which do nothing but make scammers rich. Let's start with a solid, legal, good, reliable resource of information.. visit www.vacationbetter.org for information. Visit www.arda.org for even more information. Email me with questions or suggestions and I will be happy to give you my opinions. fredastemick@yahoo.com
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Essential Vacations Affiliation Suspended By Vacancy Rewards
Vacancy Rewards, Miami based Global Leader in Timeshare Loyalty Program discontinues affiliation with Essential Vacations claiming unethical sales practices, that fail to conform with the standards of Vacancy Rewards. Members who joined in the past 2 months required to contact Vacancy Rewards immediately to double check their membership status.
Vacancy Rewards, revealed earlier last month of its intentions to completely withdraw from its joint operations with Essential Vacations. Essential Vacations had previously enjoyedlots of benefits in the past for the cooperation it received due the reputation of Vacancy Rewards. Bert Hurstfield, CEO of Essential Vacations once exclaimed that "Our Users can holiday in luxury condominiums with all the bells and whistles for the cost that one would spend to holiday in a Motel". However it has been reported that Bert Hurstfield and his associate Vianey Archer have been unwilling to respond to the concerned partners for quite a while now. It can be said that with lack of future associations with reputable, honest, ethical and reliable companies such as Vacancy Rewards, the fate of small travel related businesses like Essential Vacations may always be at risk.
Jose Chavez and Mauro Rodriguez, the front runners of Vacancy Rewards on the other hand are known to put in their sweat and blood to make VR a streaming success. Where many hotels, resorts and even travel planners charge extreme prices, Vacancy Rewards facilitates members and vacationers by providing timeshare weeks and use their points as electronic dollars in most partner hotels and resort. Whether in North America or any other region of the world, Vacancy Rewards remains to be rated number one in the travel related industry.
Fortunately for the members who signed contracts as per the previous affiliation, Vacancy Rewards promises consistent benefits and amenities for all members and potential vacationers around the globe. Vacancy Rewards honors all previous benefits that members were entitled to. All members who recently signed up either along Essential Vacations of Vacancy Rewards are required to get in touch with the Vacancy Rewards customer service and check the position of their membership or get notified of any crucial policy changes.
Vacancy Rewards members who have already received their login and password details are advised to sign in at the Vacancy Rewards website to view their status. While members still waiting for their login details are advised to use the 'Contact Us' form available at the bottom of the Vacancy Rewards website, email us at our customer service department or call the Web Support and VIP Program Reservations Dept. using the toll free number.
Vacancy Rewards, revealed earlier last month of its intentions to completely withdraw from its joint operations with Essential Vacations. Essential Vacations had previously enjoyedlots of benefits in the past for the cooperation it received due the reputation of Vacancy Rewards. Bert Hurstfield, CEO of Essential Vacations once exclaimed that "Our Users can holiday in luxury condominiums with all the bells and whistles for the cost that one would spend to holiday in a Motel". However it has been reported that Bert Hurstfield and his associate Vianey Archer have been unwilling to respond to the concerned partners for quite a while now. It can be said that with lack of future associations with reputable, honest, ethical and reliable companies such as Vacancy Rewards, the fate of small travel related businesses like Essential Vacations may always be at risk.
Jose Chavez and Mauro Rodriguez, the front runners of Vacancy Rewards on the other hand are known to put in their sweat and blood to make VR a streaming success. Where many hotels, resorts and even travel planners charge extreme prices, Vacancy Rewards facilitates members and vacationers by providing timeshare weeks and use their points as electronic dollars in most partner hotels and resort. Whether in North America or any other region of the world, Vacancy Rewards remains to be rated number one in the travel related industry.
Fortunately for the members who signed contracts as per the previous affiliation, Vacancy Rewards promises consistent benefits and amenities for all members and potential vacationers around the globe. Vacancy Rewards honors all previous benefits that members were entitled to. All members who recently signed up either along Essential Vacations of Vacancy Rewards are required to get in touch with the Vacancy Rewards customer service and check the position of their membership or get notified of any crucial policy changes.
Vacancy Rewards members who have already received their login and password details are advised to sign in at the Vacancy Rewards website to view their status. While members still waiting for their login details are advised to use the 'Contact Us' form available at the bottom of the Vacancy Rewards website, email us at our customer service department or call the Web Support and VIP Program Reservations Dept. using the toll free number.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
What has ARDA done for me lately?
well.. take a look at a recent article I had published and as I always say "Educate yourself!".
More of the story here..
More of the story here..
Sunday, September 26, 2010
South Carolina timeshare owners
To all of the timeshare owners in South Carolina...
have you heard about the latest task that ARDA-ROC and ARDA-Pac (www.arda.org) are working on for you? Apparently there are hoteliers in Myrtle Beach who are trying to push legislation through to put an added tax on timeshare owners through their maintenance fees.
I have heard complaints, especially on TUG ( www.tug2.net ) that owners are complaining about paying a few dollars a year to ARDA. That money is what gives ARDA the funds to try to fight things like mentioned above. That maintenance fee tax would not affect the developer, nor ARDa, but you the consumer/owner instead. While TUG members and timeshare owners are busy complaining about the $3 or $5 dollars that they pay annually to this group, this group is in the legislative halls and hiring attorneys to help YOU!
There is nothing more disgusting then uneducated conspiracy theorists who just want anything to gripe about.. how stupid it is to gripe about the help of someone trying to protect you!
I will have more detailed updates about what is going on through the upcoming weeks on this topic. All timeshare owners in South Carolina have a responsibility to support ARDA and to make their support known. As for the rest of the country, if this proposed tax goes through, it could set a precedence in the industry throughout the country to other states. This ultimately could effect every timeshare owner out there.
have you heard about the latest task that ARDA-ROC and ARDA-Pac (www.arda.org) are working on for you? Apparently there are hoteliers in Myrtle Beach who are trying to push legislation through to put an added tax on timeshare owners through their maintenance fees.
I have heard complaints, especially on TUG ( www.tug2.net ) that owners are complaining about paying a few dollars a year to ARDA. That money is what gives ARDA the funds to try to fight things like mentioned above. That maintenance fee tax would not affect the developer, nor ARDa, but you the consumer/owner instead. While TUG members and timeshare owners are busy complaining about the $3 or $5 dollars that they pay annually to this group, this group is in the legislative halls and hiring attorneys to help YOU!
There is nothing more disgusting then uneducated conspiracy theorists who just want anything to gripe about.. how stupid it is to gripe about the help of someone trying to protect you!
I will have more detailed updates about what is going on through the upcoming weeks on this topic. All timeshare owners in South Carolina have a responsibility to support ARDA and to make their support known. As for the rest of the country, if this proposed tax goes through, it could set a precedence in the industry throughout the country to other states. This ultimately could effect every timeshare owner out there.
Friday, September 24, 2010
Timeshare Evolution
The following article on the evolution of timeshare or timesharing, was written by a friend of mine, Monica Stephens. Monica is a licensed sales agent, and owner of a brokerage where she focuses her years of timeshare experience in helping timeshare owners sell their timeshares on the resale market.. She works on a commission basis. To reach her, contact information is..
Monica Stephens
Phone: (540) 476-1350
Fax: (866) 855-8615
Email: Monica@VacationTimeshareResidential.Com
Timeshare Evolution
Timesharing first began in Europe in the 1960’s when people simply wanted a way to reduce hotel rental costs by purchasing their share in a hotel instead of renting. The costs of operating the timeshare are shared by each of the resort owners, creating vacation affordability for nearly everyone. These shared costs, are called maintenance fees. Depending upon the resort, maintenance fees are paid monthly, quarterly, or annually. Typically, maintenance fees are well below what the average consumer would pay for a comparable rental, thus saving the timeshare owner money in the long run.
In the early days of timeshare, owners owned a fixed week in a fixed unit at their resort, and this is where owners vacationed year after year. If the owners wished to vacation somewhere differently, and they weren’t able to rent out or gift their unit, or find another timeshare owner to swap with, they lost their week. Realizing timeshare owners needed more flexibility and variety; Resort Condominiums International (RCI) opened their doors in 1974 as the first company to offer timeshare exchanges. Interval International (II) followed suit soon thereafter. For a small fee, timeshare owners could join one of these companies in order to exchange their timeshare week for someone else’s week. In the beginning, there weren’t many resorts to choose from. As the timeshare industry grew, so did the exchange companies. While RCI and II are still the predominant exchange companies, numerous other exchange companies have emerged. Today there are over 6,500 resorts affiliated with RCI in over 100 different countries, and over 2,500 resorts affiliated with II in over 75 countries. Nowadays the exchange companies not only help their members exchange their week, but can also provide assistance with scheduling airfare, car rentals, and even suggest the area’s finest restaurants, shopping, and entertainment.
For those whose schedule won’t allow them the luxury of vacationing for an entire week at a time, point type ownerships are on the rise. Resort based point ownerships allow owners to book the unit size they need for the night, the week, or the month, depending on how many points they have at their disposal. And best of all, they can use their points at multiple affiliated resorts, all without having to pay exchange fees. Most resorts that offer point type ownerships are affiliated with a large resort group offering an almost endless array of destinations. Even if owners are lucky enough to visit all of the areas within the resort group, most owners can still venture to other areas by converting their points to a week, then depositing their week with an exchange company.
Because point type ownerships became so popular, even RCI has gotten in on the action. In 2000, RCI launched the world’s first global points-based exchange system. RCI aligned itself with various timeshare resorts worldwide to offer owners more flexibility and options for vacation travel. Like the resort based point ownerships, RCI point members can choose from various accommodation types, the unit size they need, and how many nights they wish to travel. These owners can choose to visit any of RCI’s affiliated resorts. However, RCI points are not limited to accommodations at timeshare resorts. The points may also be used for rental cars, cruises, hotels, golf lessons, and more. Owners can also borrow points from the following year if needed, or save their unused points for next year’s vacation.
The forms of interval ownership have also evolved over the years. When timesharing first began, there was only one type of ownership available, referred to as a lease hold or right-to-use property. People owned their timeshare for a designated period of time, typically for 20-40 years. While this practice is still in use, most timeshares in the US are deeded properties. A deeded timeshare property is considered real estate, you essentially own it forever. However, regardless of which type of ownership is owned, all owners have the ability to use their time, rent it, give it away, exchange it, and will it to their children.
In addition to fixed week ownership, many resorts now offer floating weeks. In this scenario, the owners do not own a particular week or unit; they own a season and unit size. They simply decide when they want to vacation during their designated season. This works out very well for owners at a four season resort as they can go skiing in the winter, site seeing in the fall when the leaves change, swimming and boating in the summer, and golfing in the spring. When owners tire of vacationing at the same resort, they can join an exchange company to broaden their vacation horizons.
Over the last 50 years, the timeshare industry has evolved in order to fit everyone’s needs. No longer do you have to vacation at the same resort year after year, or the same country for that matter. With so many options available to timeshare owners there’s no wonder why a large number of owners never go back to their home resort. It will be intriguing to see what may come of this industry in the next 50 years.
Monica Stephens
Phone: (540) 476-1350
Fax: (866) 855-8615
Email: Monica@VacationTimeshareResidential.Com
Timeshare Evolution
Timesharing first began in Europe in the 1960’s when people simply wanted a way to reduce hotel rental costs by purchasing their share in a hotel instead of renting. The costs of operating the timeshare are shared by each of the resort owners, creating vacation affordability for nearly everyone. These shared costs, are called maintenance fees. Depending upon the resort, maintenance fees are paid monthly, quarterly, or annually. Typically, maintenance fees are well below what the average consumer would pay for a comparable rental, thus saving the timeshare owner money in the long run.
In the early days of timeshare, owners owned a fixed week in a fixed unit at their resort, and this is where owners vacationed year after year. If the owners wished to vacation somewhere differently, and they weren’t able to rent out or gift their unit, or find another timeshare owner to swap with, they lost their week. Realizing timeshare owners needed more flexibility and variety; Resort Condominiums International (RCI) opened their doors in 1974 as the first company to offer timeshare exchanges. Interval International (II) followed suit soon thereafter. For a small fee, timeshare owners could join one of these companies in order to exchange their timeshare week for someone else’s week. In the beginning, there weren’t many resorts to choose from. As the timeshare industry grew, so did the exchange companies. While RCI and II are still the predominant exchange companies, numerous other exchange companies have emerged. Today there are over 6,500 resorts affiliated with RCI in over 100 different countries, and over 2,500 resorts affiliated with II in over 75 countries. Nowadays the exchange companies not only help their members exchange their week, but can also provide assistance with scheduling airfare, car rentals, and even suggest the area’s finest restaurants, shopping, and entertainment.
For those whose schedule won’t allow them the luxury of vacationing for an entire week at a time, point type ownerships are on the rise. Resort based point ownerships allow owners to book the unit size they need for the night, the week, or the month, depending on how many points they have at their disposal. And best of all, they can use their points at multiple affiliated resorts, all without having to pay exchange fees. Most resorts that offer point type ownerships are affiliated with a large resort group offering an almost endless array of destinations. Even if owners are lucky enough to visit all of the areas within the resort group, most owners can still venture to other areas by converting their points to a week, then depositing their week with an exchange company.
Because point type ownerships became so popular, even RCI has gotten in on the action. In 2000, RCI launched the world’s first global points-based exchange system. RCI aligned itself with various timeshare resorts worldwide to offer owners more flexibility and options for vacation travel. Like the resort based point ownerships, RCI point members can choose from various accommodation types, the unit size they need, and how many nights they wish to travel. These owners can choose to visit any of RCI’s affiliated resorts. However, RCI points are not limited to accommodations at timeshare resorts. The points may also be used for rental cars, cruises, hotels, golf lessons, and more. Owners can also borrow points from the following year if needed, or save their unused points for next year’s vacation.
The forms of interval ownership have also evolved over the years. When timesharing first began, there was only one type of ownership available, referred to as a lease hold or right-to-use property. People owned their timeshare for a designated period of time, typically for 20-40 years. While this practice is still in use, most timeshares in the US are deeded properties. A deeded timeshare property is considered real estate, you essentially own it forever. However, regardless of which type of ownership is owned, all owners have the ability to use their time, rent it, give it away, exchange it, and will it to their children.
In addition to fixed week ownership, many resorts now offer floating weeks. In this scenario, the owners do not own a particular week or unit; they own a season and unit size. They simply decide when they want to vacation during their designated season. This works out very well for owners at a four season resort as they can go skiing in the winter, site seeing in the fall when the leaves change, swimming and boating in the summer, and golfing in the spring. When owners tire of vacationing at the same resort, they can join an exchange company to broaden their vacation horizons.
Over the last 50 years, the timeshare industry has evolved in order to fit everyone’s needs. No longer do you have to vacation at the same resort year after year, or the same country for that matter. With so many options available to timeshare owners there’s no wonder why a large number of owners never go back to their home resort. It will be intriguing to see what may come of this industry in the next 50 years.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Travel Abroad at a Young Age Enhances Education, Career Growth and Success
Boston, MA (PRWEB) September 16, 2010
Traveling overseas at a young age supports school performance, leads to successful careers and increases the likelihood of continued travel throughout one’s life, according to a survey in support of the launch of Educational Travel Week. The survey, The Impact of Early Travel Experiences, jointly endorsed by the Student Youth & Travel Association (SYTA) and Explorica, a company creating educational tours that connect students to new cultures, languages and people through educational travel, reveals the positive impact that early travel experiences have on personal and professional accomplishments and travel trends during adulthood.
Live Chat: Thursday, September 16
Trend expert Daniel Levine, director of The Avant-Guide Institute, will lead a live chat on Thursday, September 16 at 3:00 p.m. (Eastern) to discuss survey results and trends. The chat will take place at http://www.educationaltravelweek.com; participants will then click the “Live Chat” tab to join. A highly-acclaimed speaker on the subject of travel, Levine has addressed the World Travel Market, Tourism Futures and The New York Times Travel Conference, and will be the opening keynote speaker at the 2010 World Youth & Student Travel Conference conference in Beijing. Levine began his career serving the student and youth travel market, researching and writing the legendary guidebook Europe on $50-a-Day and nine other best-selling travel books, including Frommer's guides to California, Florida, London and Italy.
Educational Travel Week celebrates the transformational experience marked by exploring new destinations, cultures and ideas. The goal of the Impact of Early Travel Experiences survey was to gain a better understanding of the learning inherent in travel and the resulting life enhancement as a result. Educational travel is a sector of tourism increasingly recognized as an important way to connect teachers and students to new cultures, languages and people globally.
“By increasing awareness of the educational and cultural benefits of student and youth travel, we can further explore the long-term effects of experiential travel and support the important efforts of reputable youth travel service providers,” said SYTA President Patrick Connor.
The survey revealed three primary themes:
•Those who travel abroad before the age of 18 achieve academic and professional success.
•The majority of individuals that participated in youth travel directly credit their travel experiences as positively impacting their education and career.
•Youth travel increases the frequency of travel as an adult, as well as an increase in the number of destinations explored.
Higher Education and Careers
The survey revealed that more than 88 percent of respondents that traveled before the age of 18 received a college degree, with more than a quarter of respondents going on to receive an advanced degree. Respondents also were high performers in school, achieving impressive college grade point averages (GPAs). More than 81 percent of respondents achieved a college GPA greater of 3.0 or higher, with more than 40 percent completing college with a GPA greater than 3.6.
These achievements are not limited to educational excellence. Half of the survey respondents who traveled before the age of 18 reported a household income of more than $75K, and almost a third boasted a household income of more than $100K.
Thank You Youth Travel
Survey respondents were asked to share the lasting impact of their travel abroad experiences. Local culture immersion provided the most lasting impact according to respondents, and almost three-quarters of these respondents credit their travel experiences with positively impacting their education and career. In fact, more than 90 percent of respondents report a willingness to participate in an educational travel experience again as an adult.
While it is not surprising that more than 50 percent of respondents portray their youth travel experiences as “fun,” it is notable that 40 percent of respondents report their youth travel is best described as “engaging.”
Travel Often and Travel Far
The survey also revealed that youth travel heavily impacts travel behavior in adulthood. Survey respondents that traveled outside North America before the age of 18 continue this trend as adults. In fact, more than 43 percent of youth travelers have visited at least ten countries outside of North America, with almost 90 percent traveling to non-English speaking destinations. Travel is considered so important to these respondents, that more than 70 percent report spending at least $2,000 each year on travel, with one out of four respondents spending more than $5,000 annually.
“At Explorica, we believe that educational experiences can be found wherever and whenever you travel,” said Olle Olsson, Explorica's Founder and President. “Travel is about the learning inherent in the experience. We build our educational travel programs so teachers can apply classroom learning to real-world experiences. Educational Travel Week is a way for all those involved in travel as a teaching tool – educators, students and parents – to celebrate the richness of all travel experiences.”
Educational Travel Week
Release of the survey marks the celebration of Explorica’s Educational Travel Week. Other Educational Travel Week activities include video and photo contests that offer a chance to win two free tickets to Europe or the opportunity to win a $500 restaurants.com gift card, culturally-specific Facebook quizzes on favorite travel destinations and more.
Conducted in August/September 2010, the survey polled North American travelers over the age of 21 who had taken a trip abroad – whether through a school-sponsored tour, a family trip or other independent travel – before the age of 18.
About Explorica, Inc.
Founded in 2000, Explorica Educational Travel creates educational tours that connect students to new cultures, languages and people. Through Explorica's use of exclusive online tools, they help teachers create tours uniquely suited to provide both the best value and the most customized, authentic tour experiences. For more information, call 1.888.310.7120, visit Explorica Educational Travel's Website, join Explorica on Facebook or follow Explorica on Twitter.
Media contact:
Scott MacKenzie
The Castle Group
617-337-9514
smackenzie(at)thecastlegrp(dot)com
The Timeshare Crusader
I have come to know an expert in the field of giving expert advice to consumers of timeshares. I would encourage you to check out her blog as well. To see her blog visit http://www.timeshareinsights.com/blog.php
Her latest blog sets some very good questions out to the industry and consumers. Here is a copy of her blog yesterday for you to review.. then if you realize you want to visit her blog, be sure to tell her where you found her at..
By Lisa Ann Schreier at www.timeshareinsights.com
Some things that have been running through my brain after spending some time at THETRADESHOW the past few days:
1) Why don't timeshares have a "loyalty program" whereby at some point, say after two visits to the same resort in a year they don't try to snag you for a timeshare presentation?
2) With all the timeshares that are facing financial difficulty and even filing bankruptcy, the public is more worried than ever before. These companies need to hire someone who can speak to the owners without sounding like a salesperson. Just saying.
3) I wonder if this ever happens to a hotel property---I attempted to send a Press Release to a Chicago area publication yesterday. It kept bouncing back. After speaking personally with the editor, I sent it from my personal e-mail address and it went through with no problem. The issue was NOT the Press Release, which was not spam, it was my e-mail address. The publication had a "spam filter" for anything coming with the word "timeshare" in the address. Says a lot, doesn't it?
4) The Midwest Chapter of the National Timeshare Owners Association had to cancel their planned meeting for this Sunday due to low attendance. Only eight (8) people had signed up! What is going on here? Even if every single timeshare owner was ridiculously pleased with their timeshare, don't you think that they would want to show up for a meeting where they could learn something? I mean, I am really happy with my new iPhone 4, but that doesn't stop me from showing up to a meeting where I can learn more. Timeshare owners, please weigh in on this one.
Posted by Lisa Ann Schreier, The Timeshare Crusader at 10:25 AM
Her latest blog sets some very good questions out to the industry and consumers. Here is a copy of her blog yesterday for you to review.. then if you realize you want to visit her blog, be sure to tell her where you found her at..
By Lisa Ann Schreier at www.timeshareinsights.com
Some things that have been running through my brain after spending some time at THETRADESHOW the past few days:
1) Why don't timeshares have a "loyalty program" whereby at some point, say after two visits to the same resort in a year they don't try to snag you for a timeshare presentation?
2) With all the timeshares that are facing financial difficulty and even filing bankruptcy, the public is more worried than ever before. These companies need to hire someone who can speak to the owners without sounding like a salesperson. Just saying.
3) I wonder if this ever happens to a hotel property---I attempted to send a Press Release to a Chicago area publication yesterday. It kept bouncing back. After speaking personally with the editor, I sent it from my personal e-mail address and it went through with no problem. The issue was NOT the Press Release, which was not spam, it was my e-mail address. The publication had a "spam filter" for anything coming with the word "timeshare" in the address. Says a lot, doesn't it?
4) The Midwest Chapter of the National Timeshare Owners Association had to cancel their planned meeting for this Sunday due to low attendance. Only eight (8) people had signed up! What is going on here? Even if every single timeshare owner was ridiculously pleased with their timeshare, don't you think that they would want to show up for a meeting where they could learn something? I mean, I am really happy with my new iPhone 4, but that doesn't stop me from showing up to a meeting where I can learn more. Timeshare owners, please weigh in on this one.
Posted by Lisa Ann Schreier, The Timeshare Crusader at 10:25 AM
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Island One Resorts files Chpt. 11 Bankruptcy
Any owners out there who own at Island One? They just filed bankruptcy two days ago in Orlando. To settle nerves from the start, do not be too terribly alarmed. you own a deed and the HOA will have to continue to support the owners. It is the company that went broke, which typically refers to the developer, the sales and marketing teams, etc.
Educate yourself!
Educate yourself!
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Does the Berkley Group (or others) take timeshare back?
I am beginning this post with this title because it seems to be a search engine result which brings visitors to my site!
There are many developers who will take timeshares back through alternative means.. but for a timeshare owner individually to get a group to take back a timeshare, is practically impossible. For those of you asking these questions, you should be looking at a Trade in program available through various resale companies, and charitable groups. Developers do not like to accept one single deed back, but will consider the option when a company has pooled a lot of their inventory together.
I would suggest checking with groups like SellMyTimesharenow.com, Timeshare Relief, Last Resort Resales (who has charities they donate to), Holiday Equity, or other various groups you can find via research on the web. Many resale companies have contacts at companies who take in timeshares, even if they don't so a little sweet talking to an ad rep might get you where you want to be. Aside from that, your best bet is to go on and advertise and market your timeshare for sale or rent.
Hope this helps.. and if you find a company but arent sure if they are legitimate or not, as always, shoot me a note and I will find out for you if I dont already have the answer.
There are many developers who will take timeshares back through alternative means.. but for a timeshare owner individually to get a group to take back a timeshare, is practically impossible. For those of you asking these questions, you should be looking at a Trade in program available through various resale companies, and charitable groups. Developers do not like to accept one single deed back, but will consider the option when a company has pooled a lot of their inventory together.
I would suggest checking with groups like SellMyTimesharenow.com, Timeshare Relief, Last Resort Resales (who has charities they donate to), Holiday Equity, or other various groups you can find via research on the web. Many resale companies have contacts at companies who take in timeshares, even if they don't so a little sweet talking to an ad rep might get you where you want to be. Aside from that, your best bet is to go on and advertise and market your timeshare for sale or rent.
Hope this helps.. and if you find a company but arent sure if they are legitimate or not, as always, shoot me a note and I will find out for you if I dont already have the answer.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Tri-State Residents Enjoy Direct Flights and Discounted Rooms at Costa Rica Marriott Hotels and Resorts
(PRWEB) September 13, 2010
Marriott Hotels and Resorts of Costa Rica is now offering residents of the Tri-State area an additional incentive to visit the island. From now until December 31, 2010, residents living in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut enjoy savings of up to 40% off room rates at any one of Marriott’s four Costa Rica hotels. This special offer coincides with the recent launch of direct air service to San Jose, Costa Rica, from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. The “Tri-State Resident Rate” starts at just $101/night – a saving of up to $80 per night.
The American Airlines direct flight service from New York’s JFK Airport is offered five times per week, making a Costa Rica vacation more convenient than ever before.
Participating properties include:
Costa Rica Marriott Hotel San Jose
Los Suenos Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort
Residence Inn by Marriott San Jose Escazu
Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Escazu
A Marriott Hotel in Costa Rica is the epitome of luxury and should be experienced by everyone. Tri-State residents should take advantage of such an attractive offer before it expires, and the new direct flight option makes Costa Rica travel a breeze.
Proof of residency is required upon check-in. Minimum two-night stay is required. To book this offer, please call 1-888-236-2427 or visit www.marriott.com/costarica and request promo code N9R. Black out dates and other restrictions may apply.
About the Marriott Hotels and Resorts of Costa Rica
Marriott Hotels and Resorts of Costa Rica offer the ultimate experience in a unique destination where ecology, nature and traditions flourish. Whether playing golf at the 18-hole championship eco-golf course at the ocean resort, enjoying the urban setting of the centrally located Courtyard or taking pleasure in the breathtaking views of a spectacular coffee plantation from a colonial hacienda, these properties provide the best of Costa Rica. Offering something for everyone, Marriott Hotels and Resorts of Costa Rica combine beauty, culture, exceptional architecture and an unsurpassed level of service to deliver an authentic Costa Rican adventure. For more information please visit www.marriott.com/costarica
Marriott Hotels and Resorts of Costa Rica is now offering residents of the Tri-State area an additional incentive to visit the island. From now until December 31, 2010, residents living in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut enjoy savings of up to 40% off room rates at any one of Marriott’s four Costa Rica hotels. This special offer coincides with the recent launch of direct air service to San Jose, Costa Rica, from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport. The “Tri-State Resident Rate” starts at just $101/night – a saving of up to $80 per night.
The American Airlines direct flight service from New York’s JFK Airport is offered five times per week, making a Costa Rica vacation more convenient than ever before.
Participating properties include:
Costa Rica Marriott Hotel San Jose
Los Suenos Marriott Ocean & Golf Resort
Residence Inn by Marriott San Jose Escazu
Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Escazu
A Marriott Hotel in Costa Rica is the epitome of luxury and should be experienced by everyone. Tri-State residents should take advantage of such an attractive offer before it expires, and the new direct flight option makes Costa Rica travel a breeze.
Proof of residency is required upon check-in. Minimum two-night stay is required. To book this offer, please call 1-888-236-2427 or visit www.marriott.com/costarica and request promo code N9R. Black out dates and other restrictions may apply.
About the Marriott Hotels and Resorts of Costa Rica
Marriott Hotels and Resorts of Costa Rica offer the ultimate experience in a unique destination where ecology, nature and traditions flourish. Whether playing golf at the 18-hole championship eco-golf course at the ocean resort, enjoying the urban setting of the centrally located Courtyard or taking pleasure in the breathtaking views of a spectacular coffee plantation from a colonial hacienda, these properties provide the best of Costa Rica. Offering something for everyone, Marriott Hotels and Resorts of Costa Rica combine beauty, culture, exceptional architecture and an unsurpassed level of service to deliver an authentic Costa Rican adventure. For more information please visit www.marriott.com/costarica
Myrtle Beach Snowbird Rentals on Sale by Myrtle Grand Vacations
Myrtle Beach, SC (PRWEB) September 13, 2010
Myrtle Grand Vacations, LLC, a premier vacation rental management firm specializing in North Myrtle Beach vacation rentals in the Grand Strand area, offers the best deals on long-term rentals. With cooler weather settling upon our friends in the North, it's time to consider the most suitable property for your extended stay in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Grand Vacations offers a variety of vacation rental homes, condos, townhouses and villas, perfect for migrating snowbirds. Their Myrtle Beach snowbird rentals are unmatched to other offers you'll find in the surrounding area. Book your rental today, and they'll beat any reasonable rate.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is the perfect place for a winter getaway. A temperate climate-far away from snow emergencies and icy roads-makes this area one of the most popular places to migrate during the colder part of the year. Sandy beaches and exceptional golf courses will make your stay even more memorable. Myrtle Grand Vacations offers affordable accommodations for any-sized family. Their 1 Bedroom Snowbird Specials start at just $500 per month; 2 Bedroom rates begin at $700 per month; and 3 Bedroom specials are only $900 per month. These prices all include linens. Myrtle Grand Vacations' Snowbird Specials run from October 1 through May 1, so you'll miss all the harshness of winter, and the worst fall might have to offer as well.
The customer always comes first, and with Myrtle Grand Vacations, your preferences matter. Location is a top priority for most vacationers, and Myrtle Grand Vacations offers oceanfront, second row, channel and waterway rentals to all their customers. All of their Myrtle Beach vacation rentals are distinct, so make sure you visit Myrtle Grand Vacations online at www.myrtlegrandvacations.com to see what suits your needs.
Renters expect the best in service and property maintenance, and that's exactly what you get when you rent from Myrtle Grand Vacations. Privately owned and operated by a diligent, hardworking staff, Myrtle Grand Vacations treats their Myrtle Beach rentals with care and respect. All units are professionally cleaned after each guest leaves to exceed your expectations. With more than 15 years experience in the North Myrtle Beach vacation rental industry, Myrtle Grand Vacations understands the ins and outs of property management. Taking both the homeowners and renters needs and concerns into consideration, Myrtle Grand Vacations is a vacation rental management firm practicing true Southern hospitality etiquette.
Don't waste any more time thinking about the perils of winter. Find your dream vacation home in Myrtle Beach today with Myrtle Grand Vacations. For more information, visit www.myrtlegrandvacations.com or call 877-280-8566.
Myrtle Grand Vacations, LLC, a premier vacation rental management firm specializing in North Myrtle Beach vacation rentals in the Grand Strand area, offers the best deals on long-term rentals. With cooler weather settling upon our friends in the North, it's time to consider the most suitable property for your extended stay in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Grand Vacations offers a variety of vacation rental homes, condos, townhouses and villas, perfect for migrating snowbirds. Their Myrtle Beach snowbird rentals are unmatched to other offers you'll find in the surrounding area. Book your rental today, and they'll beat any reasonable rate.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is the perfect place for a winter getaway. A temperate climate-far away from snow emergencies and icy roads-makes this area one of the most popular places to migrate during the colder part of the year. Sandy beaches and exceptional golf courses will make your stay even more memorable. Myrtle Grand Vacations offers affordable accommodations for any-sized family. Their 1 Bedroom Snowbird Specials start at just $500 per month; 2 Bedroom rates begin at $700 per month; and 3 Bedroom specials are only $900 per month. These prices all include linens. Myrtle Grand Vacations' Snowbird Specials run from October 1 through May 1, so you'll miss all the harshness of winter, and the worst fall might have to offer as well.
The customer always comes first, and with Myrtle Grand Vacations, your preferences matter. Location is a top priority for most vacationers, and Myrtle Grand Vacations offers oceanfront, second row, channel and waterway rentals to all their customers. All of their Myrtle Beach vacation rentals are distinct, so make sure you visit Myrtle Grand Vacations online at www.myrtlegrandvacations.com to see what suits your needs.
Renters expect the best in service and property maintenance, and that's exactly what you get when you rent from Myrtle Grand Vacations. Privately owned and operated by a diligent, hardworking staff, Myrtle Grand Vacations treats their Myrtle Beach rentals with care and respect. All units are professionally cleaned after each guest leaves to exceed your expectations. With more than 15 years experience in the North Myrtle Beach vacation rental industry, Myrtle Grand Vacations understands the ins and outs of property management. Taking both the homeowners and renters needs and concerns into consideration, Myrtle Grand Vacations is a vacation rental management firm practicing true Southern hospitality etiquette.
Don't waste any more time thinking about the perils of winter. Find your dream vacation home in Myrtle Beach today with Myrtle Grand Vacations. For more information, visit www.myrtlegrandvacations.com or call 877-280-8566.
Monday, August 30, 2010
Timeshare information on the net not helpful
I soak through countless google alerts throughout my day. I have found repeatedly that the majority of blogs on timeshare resales are either by a timeshare resale company, or they are posts that someone put empty repeat information on just to try to get their SEO up. Very frustrating!
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Pueblo Bonito Resorts in Los Cabos
okay.. so this isn't really a blog about timeshare advice but! Below is a press release put out by one of my faveorite all time resort groups. The Pueblo Bonito Resorts in Mexico. They are extraordinary!! So, if you just want to rent a vacation this fall, here is a discount offer that you would enjoy!
Los Cabos, Mexico (Vocus) August 18, 2010
Viva Mexico! To celebrate Mexico’s Bicentennial of Independence (September 15-16) and the Centennial of the Revolution (November 20), Pueblo Bonito’s four Oceanfront Resorts and Spas in Los Cabos have created a special package, “Pueblo Bonito Doubles the Bicentennial,” offering guests who make reservations by October 15 a $400 coupon credit for specific items including food and beverage, cooking classes with top chefs, and spa and fitness services. Travel can take place through December 23, 2011.
“This special $400 discount package makes a trip to our Los Cabos resorts even more affordable,” says Enrique Gandara, corporate director of sales and marketing for Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront Resorts and Spas. “And, of course, our luxurious accommodations, superb amenities and personalized service will make this a most memorable vacation.”
Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront Resorts and Spas has been the recipient of many prestigious awards. Most recently, two of Pueblo Bonito’s resorts—Pacifica and Sunset Beach—were voted among the Top 20 resorts in Mexico by the readers of Travel + Leisure Magazine, with Pueblo Bonito Pacifica’s debut at number six in the rankings. Other prestigious awards include Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best List for Best Hotel Food in the Americas, Best Hotel Design in the Americas and Best Hotel Spa in Mexico, Central and South America; consistently named in Condé Nast Traveler’s Reader’s Choice Awards and on the Condé Nast Traveler Gold List for the past two consecutive years.
The reservations staff at Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront Resorts and Spas can provide complete details about this package. Some restrictions apply. To make a reservation at one of the Pueblo Bonito Resorts and Spas, visit www.pueblobonito.com/specials or call 1-800-990-8250.
About Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront Resorts and Spas:
Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront Resorts and Spas offer uncommon amenities, unsurpassed service, and the warmth of a luxurious Mexican home. The collection includes four properties in Los Cabos — Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Resort & Spa, Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Resort & Spa, Pueblo Bonito Rosé Resort & Spa, and Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos; and two in Mazatlán — AAA Four-Diamond Award winning Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort & Spa and Pueblo Bonito Mazatlán. For more information, visit www.pueblobonito.com or call 1-800-990-8250
Los Cabos, Mexico (Vocus) August 18, 2010
Viva Mexico! To celebrate Mexico’s Bicentennial of Independence (September 15-16) and the Centennial of the Revolution (November 20), Pueblo Bonito’s four Oceanfront Resorts and Spas in Los Cabos have created a special package, “Pueblo Bonito Doubles the Bicentennial,” offering guests who make reservations by October 15 a $400 coupon credit for specific items including food and beverage, cooking classes with top chefs, and spa and fitness services. Travel can take place through December 23, 2011.
“This special $400 discount package makes a trip to our Los Cabos resorts even more affordable,” says Enrique Gandara, corporate director of sales and marketing for Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront Resorts and Spas. “And, of course, our luxurious accommodations, superb amenities and personalized service will make this a most memorable vacation.”
Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront Resorts and Spas has been the recipient of many prestigious awards. Most recently, two of Pueblo Bonito’s resorts—Pacifica and Sunset Beach—were voted among the Top 20 resorts in Mexico by the readers of Travel + Leisure Magazine, with Pueblo Bonito Pacifica’s debut at number six in the rankings. Other prestigious awards include Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best List for Best Hotel Food in the Americas, Best Hotel Design in the Americas and Best Hotel Spa in Mexico, Central and South America; consistently named in Condé Nast Traveler’s Reader’s Choice Awards and on the Condé Nast Traveler Gold List for the past two consecutive years.
The reservations staff at Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront Resorts and Spas can provide complete details about this package. Some restrictions apply. To make a reservation at one of the Pueblo Bonito Resorts and Spas, visit www.pueblobonito.com/specials or call 1-800-990-8250.
About Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront Resorts and Spas:
Pueblo Bonito Oceanfront Resorts and Spas offer uncommon amenities, unsurpassed service, and the warmth of a luxurious Mexican home. The collection includes four properties in Los Cabos — Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Resort & Spa, Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Resort & Spa, Pueblo Bonito Rosé Resort & Spa, and Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos; and two in Mazatlán — AAA Four-Diamond Award winning Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort & Spa and Pueblo Bonito Mazatlán. For more information, visit www.pueblobonito.com or call 1-800-990-8250
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Why Timeshare Owners Need Choices
Todays blog post on the Timeshare Authority (www.thetimeshareauthority.com) by Jason Tremblay, CEO of SellMyTimeshareNOW.com, is a must read for any timeshare buyer or seller in the resale market.
"Educate yourself" here .... http://www.thetimeshareauthority.com/2010/08/14/why-timeshare-owners-need-choices/
"Educate yourself" here .... http://www.thetimeshareauthority.com/2010/08/14/why-timeshare-owners-need-choices/
Donation or Relief should not cost you anything!
I was bouncing around the internet today and found an article on another blog site that I want to share with you. There are so many scam companies out there professing to offer the timeshare owner "relief".. be cautious.. you might be better off giving away your money to an "upfront ad resale company" instead.
Check this article out.. http://www.timeshareheadlines.info/?p=1850
"These timeshare relief companies often have partnerships with escrow companies that will allegedly hold the clients upfront fees until the transfer is completed. These companies normally have bank accounts in Mexico and the clients are asked to wire the money for the taxes, appraisal, or title change to the Mexican bank account. Escrow accounts do not exist in Mexico like they do in the US for property transfers. "
Check this article out.. http://www.timeshareheadlines.info/?p=1850
"These timeshare relief companies often have partnerships with escrow companies that will allegedly hold the clients upfront fees until the transfer is completed. These companies normally have bank accounts in Mexico and the clients are asked to wire the money for the taxes, appraisal, or title change to the Mexican bank account. Escrow accounts do not exist in Mexico like they do in the US for property transfers. "
Friday, August 13, 2010
Timeshare isnt bad, just misunderstood!
I want your family to vacation in style, luxury and in a cost effective manner. I have three children and while they were growing up, my husband and I quickly learned the problems that come along with trying to vacation with a full family on a budget and in convenient clean accomodations.
There is so much negative information out there that it is hard for the average consumer to find any real relevant information that would keep their experiences positive. Thats what this site is about so please, pull up a chair and consider these things..
Vacation ownership is one of the most highly regulated vacation products. Individual state timeshare laws govern the purchase process so educate yourself.
The only people who should purchase a timeshare are families or individuals who want to vacation in luxury, with a sound plan for the future and who can afford it. If you vacation already, then this can be a cost effective way to keep your vacation style up and not suffer future inflation rates.
Look at your current vacation expenses. Consider if you are willing to spend more or less depending on the vacations that you want to take, plan to take, or wish you could take. Weigh out the cost of the timeshare, the benefits of it and the negatives of it, along with the cost, benefits and negatives of renting hotel rooms or other accomodations.
Go see for yourself what the buzz is all about. Dont be afraid to take a sales tour at a resort, and dont be afraid to check out the alternatives! If you are not ready to purchase, you can simply state that to the sales rep. If you stay smart and strong, then you have nothing to fear. The negative talk on the internet about people who were "duped" or "scammed" in to buying a timeshare, simply were people who believed everything they were being told and let their gaurd down. See what they show you in writing and what they show you with your eyes. Fill in the words yourself, dont fall for everything.. just go for the education. Talk to friends who already own. If they have bad things to say, find out why and then think about what they have said.. does it sound like they are just angry because they "bought a lie" or because they truly were "duped".. but pull out the positive as well and understand what the good parts are.
Read all documents carefully and understand what you are being offered. If you do not understand what you are reading and being asked to sign, stop and think. Pull out your cell phone and get on the internet and look up the terms of some of the words that are in front of you that you do not understand. Educate yourself.
According to VacationBetter.org, you should "Look for signs of good property management, such as well-maintained facilities and resort amenities, good housekeeping,and friendly service. Take a look at the resort’s annual budget, which is usually available through the property’s HomeOwners Association (HOA)." good point!
Learn about and understand the exchange companies and the process for exchanging. The odds are unlikely that you will want to vacation at the same resort year after year.. verify what your options will be and the costs associated for vacations that you transfer to another resort.
Educate yourself. Educate yourself. Educate yourself.. there are many websites available with solid positive information. Soak through some of my previous posts here and research the companies and sites that I have mentioned.
Last case, email me your questions. I do not charge for free timeshare advice. And I am not being paid by anyone else for it. I just want to make sure that before you make a bad decision and bring more negative to a very solid good product, you are educated and make a decision that is right for you and your family no matter what that decision is.
There is so much negative information out there that it is hard for the average consumer to find any real relevant information that would keep their experiences positive. Thats what this site is about so please, pull up a chair and consider these things..
Vacation ownership is one of the most highly regulated vacation products. Individual state timeshare laws govern the purchase process so educate yourself.
The only people who should purchase a timeshare are families or individuals who want to vacation in luxury, with a sound plan for the future and who can afford it. If you vacation already, then this can be a cost effective way to keep your vacation style up and not suffer future inflation rates.
Look at your current vacation expenses. Consider if you are willing to spend more or less depending on the vacations that you want to take, plan to take, or wish you could take. Weigh out the cost of the timeshare, the benefits of it and the negatives of it, along with the cost, benefits and negatives of renting hotel rooms or other accomodations.
Go see for yourself what the buzz is all about. Dont be afraid to take a sales tour at a resort, and dont be afraid to check out the alternatives! If you are not ready to purchase, you can simply state that to the sales rep. If you stay smart and strong, then you have nothing to fear. The negative talk on the internet about people who were "duped" or "scammed" in to buying a timeshare, simply were people who believed everything they were being told and let their gaurd down. See what they show you in writing and what they show you with your eyes. Fill in the words yourself, dont fall for everything.. just go for the education. Talk to friends who already own. If they have bad things to say, find out why and then think about what they have said.. does it sound like they are just angry because they "bought a lie" or because they truly were "duped".. but pull out the positive as well and understand what the good parts are.
Read all documents carefully and understand what you are being offered. If you do not understand what you are reading and being asked to sign, stop and think. Pull out your cell phone and get on the internet and look up the terms of some of the words that are in front of you that you do not understand. Educate yourself.
According to VacationBetter.org, you should "Look for signs of good property management, such as well-maintained facilities and resort amenities, good housekeeping,and friendly service. Take a look at the resort’s annual budget, which is usually available through the property’s HomeOwners Association (HOA)." good point!
Learn about and understand the exchange companies and the process for exchanging. The odds are unlikely that you will want to vacation at the same resort year after year.. verify what your options will be and the costs associated for vacations that you transfer to another resort.
Educate yourself. Educate yourself. Educate yourself.. there are many websites available with solid positive information. Soak through some of my previous posts here and research the companies and sites that I have mentioned.
Last case, email me your questions. I do not charge for free timeshare advice. And I am not being paid by anyone else for it. I just want to make sure that before you make a bad decision and bring more negative to a very solid good product, you are educated and make a decision that is right for you and your family no matter what that decision is.
Tired of Eating Pizza on a Hotel Bed? Rent a Timeshare for a Better Vacation
Straight from ARDA's consumer website, www.VacationBetter.org comes yet another consumer friendly report. I suggest that all timeshare owners, or potential owners, visit VacationBetter.org for deep insight, consumer advisory's and more! Educate yourself!
WASHINGTON, July 7, 2010 – As we enter the summer vacation season, families are looking for travel savings ideas everywhere and are prepared to jam their families into small hotel rooms if the deal is right. The American Resort Development Association (ARDA) has a solution for the budget-conscious, weary traveler: rent a timeshare villa for your next vacation.
“Many vacationers don’t yet realize that they can rent a week or two at a fabulous resort and stay in spacious accommodations with one or more bedrooms and bathrooms, a kitchen and a living room – all the comforts of home,” said Howard Nusbaum, ARDA president and CEO. “While it may be the destination that gets them there, it’s the guarantee of high-quality accommodations that keeps them returning year after year.”
According to PriceWaterhouseCoopers research on the state of the timeshare industry in 2009, nearly half of timeshare purchasers rented first. Among six million-plus timeshare owners, timeshares continue to enjoy an 85 percent satisfaction rate. “Timeshare owners place value on having the space to truly rejuvenate – a benefit that comes with a timeshare vacation,” said Nusbaum. And, because of the pre-paid nature of the product, timeshare owners continue to travel despite historic lows in traditional hotel occupancy. For 2009, the timeshare industry reported an occupancy rating of nearly 80 percent.
“We have created a rental engine for consumers to take advantage of the convenience of vacationing ‘timeshare-style.’ The opportunity for consumers to spread-out with all the conveniences of home as well as enjoy a host of on-site activities and amenities has been very positive,” said Don Harrill, president and CEO of Orange Lake Resorts, home to Holiday Inn Club Vacations. “We have seen an increase in our rental activity and our guest surveys reflect high product satisfaction ratings. In addition, we have opened our channels to mini-vacation packages and specials and are beginning to use social media as a way to market directly to consumers,” Harrill continued.
There are many ways for vacationers to ensure the right timeshare rental to meet their travel needs. Rentals can be found at aggregated sites such as www.redweek.com and www.tug2.net, as well as with many timeshare developers that may be offering rental packages. “We have two to three thousand rentals on our site at any given time,” said Brian Rogers, president of the Timeshare Users Group. “We frequently encourage travelers to explore this vacation experience because renting provides the perfect “try before you buy” solution.”
ARDA’s consumer website, www.VacationBetter.org, is a resource for all timeshare information. Visit it to discover what you’ve been missing.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About ARDA:
The American Resort Development Association (ARDA) is the Washington D.C.-based professional association representing the vacation ownership and resort development industries. Established in 1969, ARDA today has over 1,000 members ranging from privately held firms to publicly traded companies and international corporations with expertise in shared ownership interests in leisure real estate. The membership also includes timeshare owner associations (HOAs), resort management companies, and owners through the ARDA Resort Owners Coalition (ARDA-ROC). For more information, visit www.arda.org or ARDA’s consumer website at www.VacationBetter.org.
WASHINGTON, July 7, 2010 – As we enter the summer vacation season, families are looking for travel savings ideas everywhere and are prepared to jam their families into small hotel rooms if the deal is right. The American Resort Development Association (ARDA) has a solution for the budget-conscious, weary traveler: rent a timeshare villa for your next vacation.
“Many vacationers don’t yet realize that they can rent a week or two at a fabulous resort and stay in spacious accommodations with one or more bedrooms and bathrooms, a kitchen and a living room – all the comforts of home,” said Howard Nusbaum, ARDA president and CEO. “While it may be the destination that gets them there, it’s the guarantee of high-quality accommodations that keeps them returning year after year.”
According to PriceWaterhouseCoopers research on the state of the timeshare industry in 2009, nearly half of timeshare purchasers rented first. Among six million-plus timeshare owners, timeshares continue to enjoy an 85 percent satisfaction rate. “Timeshare owners place value on having the space to truly rejuvenate – a benefit that comes with a timeshare vacation,” said Nusbaum. And, because of the pre-paid nature of the product, timeshare owners continue to travel despite historic lows in traditional hotel occupancy. For 2009, the timeshare industry reported an occupancy rating of nearly 80 percent.
“We have created a rental engine for consumers to take advantage of the convenience of vacationing ‘timeshare-style.’ The opportunity for consumers to spread-out with all the conveniences of home as well as enjoy a host of on-site activities and amenities has been very positive,” said Don Harrill, president and CEO of Orange Lake Resorts, home to Holiday Inn Club Vacations. “We have seen an increase in our rental activity and our guest surveys reflect high product satisfaction ratings. In addition, we have opened our channels to mini-vacation packages and specials and are beginning to use social media as a way to market directly to consumers,” Harrill continued.
There are many ways for vacationers to ensure the right timeshare rental to meet their travel needs. Rentals can be found at aggregated sites such as www.redweek.com and www.tug2.net, as well as with many timeshare developers that may be offering rental packages. “We have two to three thousand rentals on our site at any given time,” said Brian Rogers, president of the Timeshare Users Group. “We frequently encourage travelers to explore this vacation experience because renting provides the perfect “try before you buy” solution.”
ARDA’s consumer website, www.VacationBetter.org, is a resource for all timeshare information. Visit it to discover what you’ve been missing.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
About ARDA:
The American Resort Development Association (ARDA) is the Washington D.C.-based professional association representing the vacation ownership and resort development industries. Established in 1969, ARDA today has over 1,000 members ranging from privately held firms to publicly traded companies and international corporations with expertise in shared ownership interests in leisure real estate. The membership also includes timeshare owner associations (HOAs), resort management companies, and owners through the ARDA Resort Owners Coalition (ARDA-ROC). For more information, visit www.arda.org or ARDA’s consumer website at www.VacationBetter.org.
Timeshare Resales Leader Steps Up to Expand Timeshare Owner Options
DOVER, NH--(Marketwire - 08/13/10) - Sell My Timeshare NOW, the global leader in timeshare resales and rentals, announces that the company is expanding its services, introducing important new options for timeshare owners.
Jason Tremblay, the company's founder and CEO, says, "Timeshare owners want and need choices in how they resell their timeshares. In addition to the owner-advertising option Sell My Timeshare NOW has always offered consumers, we are expanding our timeshare brokerage service capabilities and will begin presenting those services as an additional option when sellers contact us."
As part of the new business model, Sell My Timeshare NOW is transitioning to a sales team almost exclusively comprising licensed real estate professionals. The company is serious about de-emphasizing timeshare advertising as its primary product: beginning last March, it has been conducting in-house training at the corporate offices in Dover, New Hampshire, to help prepare employees for the required testing they will face in obtaining state real estate licenses. Tremblay says that he sees this as investing in the company by investing in its employees, and that SellMyTimeshareNOW will also be looking to hire additional licensed real estate professionals for its Orlando, Florida offices.
Sell My Timeshare NOW offers by-owner timeshare advertising sold by trained timeshare sales professionals, and its affiliate Timeshare Broker Services offers a full range of professional real estate services. In 2009, the company's websites generated 61,743 offers to buy timeshare resales and 85,949 offers to rent timeshares.
Consumers who want to resell their timeshare intervals or timeshare points through Sell My Timeshare NOW can pay a one-time advertising fee ($599) for sale-by-owner advertising and marketing that the company provides through its highly visible, well-positioned websites. The owner's timeshare ad remains on the company's websites, continuing to be marketed until it sells, with the timeshare owner benefiting from a money-back guarantee should the timeshare sell through other means.
For owners who would rather let a licensed professional handle the details of the sales transaction, Timeshare Broker Services may be the better choice. Customers of Timeshare Broker Services pay no up-front fee to advertise their timeshares but will pay the greater of either a 15 percent commission or $2,000 when the sale of their timeshare closes. Brokered timeshare sales are conducted in much the same way as the sale of traditional real estate. "Both options are good choices," according to Tremblay, but he says the company recognized the importance of making timeshare broker services more readily available to consumers, since many people simply don't feel comfortable or have the time to be involved in the sales process personally.
Tremblay describes the overall timeshare industry as being in a period of growth and redefinition and discloses that Sell My Timeshare NOW recently obtained formal legal advice from the highly respected law firm of Baker & Hostetler LLP, affirming that the business practices of Sell My Timeshare NOW and Timeshare Broker Services are in full compliance with Florida real estate brokerage laws. Sell My Timeshare NOW is counseled by Robert J. Webb, RRP of Baker Hostetler, a board certified Florida real estate lawyer with substantial experience in commercial real estate, timeshare and hospitality industry law.
About Sell My Timeshare NOW
Averaging more than 2 million pageviews per month, Sell My Timeshare NOW provides internet advertising and marketing solutions for timeshare owners seeking to sell or rent timeshare while offering timeshare buyers and timeshare renters competitively priced vacation ownership and rental opportunities. The company offers timeshare brokerage through Timeshare Broker Services. Headquartered in Dover, NH with offices in Orlando, FL, Sell My Timeshare NOW has been recognized on the Inc. 500 and 5000 Lists for two consecutive years as one of the fastest-growing privately held companies in the U.S.
Contact:
Contact:Jay BadeVice President of Business Developmentjaybade@sellmytimesharenow.com 603-516-0680
Jason Tremblay, the company's founder and CEO, says, "Timeshare owners want and need choices in how they resell their timeshares. In addition to the owner-advertising option Sell My Timeshare NOW has always offered consumers, we are expanding our timeshare brokerage service capabilities and will begin presenting those services as an additional option when sellers contact us."
As part of the new business model, Sell My Timeshare NOW is transitioning to a sales team almost exclusively comprising licensed real estate professionals. The company is serious about de-emphasizing timeshare advertising as its primary product: beginning last March, it has been conducting in-house training at the corporate offices in Dover, New Hampshire, to help prepare employees for the required testing they will face in obtaining state real estate licenses. Tremblay says that he sees this as investing in the company by investing in its employees, and that SellMyTimeshareNOW will also be looking to hire additional licensed real estate professionals for its Orlando, Florida offices.
Sell My Timeshare NOW offers by-owner timeshare advertising sold by trained timeshare sales professionals, and its affiliate Timeshare Broker Services offers a full range of professional real estate services. In 2009, the company's websites generated 61,743 offers to buy timeshare resales and 85,949 offers to rent timeshares.
Consumers who want to resell their timeshare intervals or timeshare points through Sell My Timeshare NOW can pay a one-time advertising fee ($599) for sale-by-owner advertising and marketing that the company provides through its highly visible, well-positioned websites. The owner's timeshare ad remains on the company's websites, continuing to be marketed until it sells, with the timeshare owner benefiting from a money-back guarantee should the timeshare sell through other means.
For owners who would rather let a licensed professional handle the details of the sales transaction, Timeshare Broker Services may be the better choice. Customers of Timeshare Broker Services pay no up-front fee to advertise their timeshares but will pay the greater of either a 15 percent commission or $2,000 when the sale of their timeshare closes. Brokered timeshare sales are conducted in much the same way as the sale of traditional real estate. "Both options are good choices," according to Tremblay, but he says the company recognized the importance of making timeshare broker services more readily available to consumers, since many people simply don't feel comfortable or have the time to be involved in the sales process personally.
Tremblay describes the overall timeshare industry as being in a period of growth and redefinition and discloses that Sell My Timeshare NOW recently obtained formal legal advice from the highly respected law firm of Baker & Hostetler LLP, affirming that the business practices of Sell My Timeshare NOW and Timeshare Broker Services are in full compliance with Florida real estate brokerage laws. Sell My Timeshare NOW is counseled by Robert J. Webb, RRP of Baker Hostetler, a board certified Florida real estate lawyer with substantial experience in commercial real estate, timeshare and hospitality industry law.
About Sell My Timeshare NOW
Averaging more than 2 million pageviews per month, Sell My Timeshare NOW provides internet advertising and marketing solutions for timeshare owners seeking to sell or rent timeshare while offering timeshare buyers and timeshare renters competitively priced vacation ownership and rental opportunities. The company offers timeshare brokerage through Timeshare Broker Services. Headquartered in Dover, NH with offices in Orlando, FL, Sell My Timeshare NOW has been recognized on the Inc. 500 and 5000 Lists for two consecutive years as one of the fastest-growing privately held companies in the U.S.
Contact:
Contact:Jay BadeVice President of Business Developmentjaybade@sellmytimesharenow.com 603-516-0680
A new Option for timeshare owners
A NEW ASSOCIATION of licensed Real Estate brokers have formed recently in an effort to provide specialized services for owners with timeshares who want to sell. They organized, in part, to become one voice; a voice of honesty and integrity in an industry fraught with scam artists and fly-by-nights. Their mission is a simple one; to provide transparent services to timeshare owners who wish to sell collecting a commission ONLY after the timeshare is sold. The President of the non-profit corporation, Judi Kozlowski, admits “It took us a few years of trying to start to get started, but we are all on board now, and we are all headed in a united direction; That is to assist timeshare owners by first helping them find a marketable price point to list their timeshare, posting to the MLS, and then performing all advertising, dealing with buyers offers, etc. JUST LIKE REGULAR REAL ESTATE WORKS! In the end our goal is to help timeshare owners who want out, out of their timeshares and help buyers who want in, IN, dealing fairly and honestly with all the people we deal with.
One of our brokers, Saundra Mock , has specialized in timeshare resales for over 16 years and handles timeshares from just about anywhere and is knowledgeable in just about every product available.
We have other brokers who specialize in the area they are located in, or in a specific product or set of products; it just depends. The point is our association gives sellers choices that are scam free. You can find a list of our associates at www.ltrba.com . If you are seller or a buyer, you can trust an associate of the Licensed Timeshare Resale Brokers Association.”
One of our brokers, Saundra Mock , has specialized in timeshare resales for over 16 years and handles timeshares from just about anywhere and is knowledgeable in just about every product available.
We have other brokers who specialize in the area they are located in, or in a specific product or set of products; it just depends. The point is our association gives sellers choices that are scam free. You can find a list of our associates at www.ltrba.com . If you are seller or a buyer, you can trust an associate of the Licensed Timeshare Resale Brokers Association.”
Timeshare Cancellation Attorney Offers FREE Consultation to Potential Timeshare Victims.
Timeshare Cancellation Attorney
ORLANDO, FL, August 13, 2010 — MyTimeShareAttorney.com announced today that victims of timeshare misrepresentations are eligible for a Free Attorney Consultation. With all the marketing hype and high-pressure sales tactics being deployed by the timeshare industry, consumers need somewhere to get non-biased information. MyTimeshareAtorrney.com is providing Florida residents and non Florida residents who purchased timeshares located in Florida, a Free Consultation for simply filling out their online questionnaire.Attorney Susan Budowski, a Child Advocate for Abused and Neglected Children recently added Timeshare Advocacy to her law practice. “After listening to the heartbreak and sadness of couples and individuals who agreed to a “sales presentation” and ended up timeshare owners. They had no intention, plans and many, even the financial where with all to complete the transaction, yet they are now “Timeshare Owners”.
The sad fact is this is completely about money and the aggressive tactics are not only escalating, they are evolving in different masks; one focus, get you to buy before you leave their presentation.
Attorney Susan Budowski advocates, “sleep on your decision before ever signing anything. Make no mistake, no matter what they tell you, the “Deal” will be there again and again. Never sign on the first or even second presentation, the resort is NOT on fire.”
About Susan Budowski
Susan Budowski is an attorney in Orlando Florida. She has been a member of the Florida Bar since May of 2004. She has been working in Alternative Dispute Resolution since 1998. She is also an advocate for abused and neglected children as a Guardian ad litem. Ms. Budowski previously worked at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in Langley Virginia where she received multiple Exceptional Performance Awards from high ranking members of the CIA including then CIA Director William Gates, who is currently the Secretary of Defense.
To learn more about Ms. Budowski’s services for timeshare victims please visit http://www.mytimeshareattorney.com
Contact: Michael Budowski
timeshare@susanbudowski.com
888.265.7900 Tel/Fax
http://www.mytimeshareattorney.com
ORLANDO, FL, August 13, 2010 — MyTimeShareAttorney.com announced today that victims of timeshare misrepresentations are eligible for a Free Attorney Consultation. With all the marketing hype and high-pressure sales tactics being deployed by the timeshare industry, consumers need somewhere to get non-biased information. MyTimeshareAtorrney.com is providing Florida residents and non Florida residents who purchased timeshares located in Florida, a Free Consultation for simply filling out their online questionnaire.Attorney Susan Budowski, a Child Advocate for Abused and Neglected Children recently added Timeshare Advocacy to her law practice. “After listening to the heartbreak and sadness of couples and individuals who agreed to a “sales presentation” and ended up timeshare owners. They had no intention, plans and many, even the financial where with all to complete the transaction, yet they are now “Timeshare Owners”.
The sad fact is this is completely about money and the aggressive tactics are not only escalating, they are evolving in different masks; one focus, get you to buy before you leave their presentation.
Attorney Susan Budowski advocates, “sleep on your decision before ever signing anything. Make no mistake, no matter what they tell you, the “Deal” will be there again and again. Never sign on the first or even second presentation, the resort is NOT on fire.”
About Susan Budowski
Susan Budowski is an attorney in Orlando Florida. She has been a member of the Florida Bar since May of 2004. She has been working in Alternative Dispute Resolution since 1998. She is also an advocate for abused and neglected children as a Guardian ad litem. Ms. Budowski previously worked at the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in Langley Virginia where she received multiple Exceptional Performance Awards from high ranking members of the CIA including then CIA Director William Gates, who is currently the Secretary of Defense.
To learn more about Ms. Budowski’s services for timeshare victims please visit http://www.mytimeshareattorney.com
Contact: Michael Budowski
timeshare@susanbudowski.com
888.265.7900 Tel/Fax
http://www.mytimeshareattorney.com
Thursday, August 12, 2010
LEADING U.S. TIMESHARE RESELLER ACQUIRES WEBSITE OF TOP CANADIAN RESALE FIRM
Dover, NH – August 5, 2010 – Jason Tremblay, CEO of SellMyTimeshareNow.com, one of the world’s largest and most respected online timeshare resale and rental marketing organizations, has recently announced the acquisition of the primary asset – as well as the customers – of Canada’s leading timeshare reseller, RapidResale.ca.
“During recent months, RapidResale founder April Cummins has become more involved in sales and marketing efforts for Canadian developers and sought a company to whom she could entrust her resale business, one that would take over the management of the existing website and the servicing of its customers,” explained Tremblay. “Due to our high level of success and national recognition, April asked if we would be willing to acquire this segment of her business to ensure a high level of continuing service for her customers.”
Added Tremblay, “The six-year-old RapidResale website is already a highly trusted, well-optimized, perfectly positioned site that ranks extremely well with Canadian search engines, such as www.Google.ca. We are excited about this acquisition since it will provide our web-based company opportunities to further expand our presence in Canada. Links on our website will lead potential renters and buyers to the Canadian site, benefiting everyone involved. Our ultimate plan is for all of our sellers’ properties to be displayed on all of our websites including RapidResale.ca.”
Jay Bade, VP of business development at SellMyTimeshareNow.com was instrumental in connecting the two companies. “As we acquire the domain name, database and website content of RapidResale.ca, we will provide their existing customers with greater exposure through our family of websites.”
Founded in 2004, RapidResale.ca is the domain name for Secondary Solutions Group, an Ontario-based Canadian timeshare resales leader with a solid reputation for success and its growth into a multi-million dollar organization. The company also provides sales and marketing solutions to developers of shared-use properties. April Cummins will continue to work with Canadian timeshare developers in the sales and marketing arena and refer them to our Vacation Property Solutions, the Resort Services Division of SellMyTimeshareNow for future resales and marketing needs.”
Commented Ross Perlmutter, President/CEO of the Canadian Resort Development Association, “With more than 180 shared ownership resorts and nearly 350,000 owners in Canada, we welcome the expanded presence of SellMyTimeshareNow. They are a leading international timeshare reseller that can potentially bring great benefits to timeshare buyers and sellers on both sides of the border.”
Founded in 2003, Sell My Timeshare NOW has grown to become the leading online secondary marketplace for timeshares on a resale basis. Each month, averaging more than 2 million pageviews, the Sell My Timeshare NOW websites deliver to timeshare owners and developers over 86,000 offers valued at $88 million for timeshare rentals and 61,000 offers valued at $338 million for timeshare resales.
About Sell My Timeshare NOW
The company is the recognized global leader in online timeshare resale and rental marketing, with over $427 million in offers through its websites in 2009. The company’s flagship website, SellMyTimeshareNOW.com, provides internet advertising and marketing solutions for timeshare owners seeking to sell or rent their timeshare while offering timeshare buyers and renters competitively priced vacation ownership and rental opportunities. The company also offers success-based timeshare brokerage through Timeshare Broker Services. Headquartered in Dover, NH with offices in Orlando, FL, Sell My Timeshare NOW has over 150 employees and was recognized on the Inc. 500 and 5000 Lists for the second consecutive year as one of the fastest-growing privately held companies in the country. For more information, contact Jay Bade, VP of Business Development at 603-516-0680.
Media Contact:
press@sellmytimesharenow.com
“During recent months, RapidResale founder April Cummins has become more involved in sales and marketing efforts for Canadian developers and sought a company to whom she could entrust her resale business, one that would take over the management of the existing website and the servicing of its customers,” explained Tremblay. “Due to our high level of success and national recognition, April asked if we would be willing to acquire this segment of her business to ensure a high level of continuing service for her customers.”
Added Tremblay, “The six-year-old RapidResale website is already a highly trusted, well-optimized, perfectly positioned site that ranks extremely well with Canadian search engines, such as www.Google.ca. We are excited about this acquisition since it will provide our web-based company opportunities to further expand our presence in Canada. Links on our website will lead potential renters and buyers to the Canadian site, benefiting everyone involved. Our ultimate plan is for all of our sellers’ properties to be displayed on all of our websites including RapidResale.ca.”
Jay Bade, VP of business development at SellMyTimeshareNow.com was instrumental in connecting the two companies. “As we acquire the domain name, database and website content of RapidResale.ca, we will provide their existing customers with greater exposure through our family of websites.”
Founded in 2004, RapidResale.ca is the domain name for Secondary Solutions Group, an Ontario-based Canadian timeshare resales leader with a solid reputation for success and its growth into a multi-million dollar organization. The company also provides sales and marketing solutions to developers of shared-use properties. April Cummins will continue to work with Canadian timeshare developers in the sales and marketing arena and refer them to our Vacation Property Solutions, the Resort Services Division of SellMyTimeshareNow for future resales and marketing needs.”
Commented Ross Perlmutter, President/CEO of the Canadian Resort Development Association, “With more than 180 shared ownership resorts and nearly 350,000 owners in Canada, we welcome the expanded presence of SellMyTimeshareNow. They are a leading international timeshare reseller that can potentially bring great benefits to timeshare buyers and sellers on both sides of the border.”
Founded in 2003, Sell My Timeshare NOW has grown to become the leading online secondary marketplace for timeshares on a resale basis. Each month, averaging more than 2 million pageviews, the Sell My Timeshare NOW websites deliver to timeshare owners and developers over 86,000 offers valued at $88 million for timeshare rentals and 61,000 offers valued at $338 million for timeshare resales.
About Sell My Timeshare NOW
The company is the recognized global leader in online timeshare resale and rental marketing, with over $427 million in offers through its websites in 2009. The company’s flagship website, SellMyTimeshareNOW.com, provides internet advertising and marketing solutions for timeshare owners seeking to sell or rent their timeshare while offering timeshare buyers and renters competitively priced vacation ownership and rental opportunities. The company also offers success-based timeshare brokerage through Timeshare Broker Services. Headquartered in Dover, NH with offices in Orlando, FL, Sell My Timeshare NOW has over 150 employees and was recognized on the Inc. 500 and 5000 Lists for the second consecutive year as one of the fastest-growing privately held companies in the country. For more information, contact Jay Bade, VP of Business Development at 603-516-0680.
Media Contact:
press@sellmytimesharenow.com
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Disney Vacation Club being scammed? - ShareConnectGrow Blog post - a community of resort managers and their suppliers
Timeshare Owners should be aware of this fraud and scam that Disney Vacation Owners are dealing with. Please read if you are a timeshare owner, no matter where you own at, so that you are aware this might happen to you!
Disney Vacation Club being scammed? - ShareConnectGrow Blog post - a community of resort managers and their suppliers
Disney Vacation Club being scammed? - ShareConnectGrow Blog post - a community of resort managers and their suppliers
Mark Vanginhoven / Classic Promotions & Premiums - ShareConnectGrow Video - a community of resort managers and their suppliers
This is an interview that I did with Mark Vanginhoven of Classic Promotions discussing some of his premium incentives available for Resort Marketing.
Mark Vanginhoven / Classic Promotions & Premiums - ShareConnectGrow Video - a community of resort managers and their suppliers
Mark Vanginhoven / Classic Promotions & Premiums - ShareConnectGrow Video - a community of resort managers and their suppliers
Monday, May 31, 2010
Be a happier timeshare owner!
When I scour the internet, the majority of information that I find for timeshare owners is negative. You either find advertisements from companies wishing to gain your business, or you find postings and blogs by angry misled timeshare owners who simply do not offer you objective advice. The truth is, you can be happy with your timeshare ownership. Infact, you can be incredibly happy! The problem is that the happy owners see no reason usually to scour the internet looking for information and therefore, they usually do not post their happy stories.
The key to being a happy timeshare owner is to be informed and that is what my mission here is. To educate you. To give you the resources you need to become educated and knowledgeable about your timeshare so that you can make the most of it.
Sift through my previous postings, and check back often for new ones. Please remember that I do not work for, nor am I being compensated, by any of the companies I mention on this blog. My recommendations come strictly from my knowledge of the inner workings of the industry, as well as my own research and study. If you come across a company or an idea that I do not mention here, please post a comment or send me an email to let me know what you are interested in and I will be happy to post about it for you.
The key to being a happy timeshare owner is to be informed and that is what my mission here is. To educate you. To give you the resources you need to become educated and knowledgeable about your timeshare so that you can make the most of it.
Sift through my previous postings, and check back often for new ones. Please remember that I do not work for, nor am I being compensated, by any of the companies I mention on this blog. My recommendations come strictly from my knowledge of the inner workings of the industry, as well as my own research and study. If you come across a company or an idea that I do not mention here, please post a comment or send me an email to let me know what you are interested in and I will be happy to post about it for you.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Virginia Vacations - Massanutten Resorts - RCI Timeshares
This is where I began my timeshare career and stayed for two decades until leaving only last summer. Truly breathtaking and beautiful. Super family vacation spot! Safe to take the kids, relaxing for mom and dad, classy and yet not stuffy.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Timeshare reSales - Can Anyone Guarantee Your Timeshare Sale?
Watch this video for more information about selling your timeshare! This is Jason Tremblay, CEO of www.SellMyTimeshareNOW.com discussing what many resellers will try to tell you about selling your timeshare.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
RedWeek.com Crusades to Educate Public About Timeshares
The Resort Trades
RedWeek.com, the largest timeshare marketplace, partners with Timeshare Crusader Lisa Ann Schreier to further awareness of and education about timesharing
Seattle, WA (Vocus/PRWEB ) May 25, 2010 -- RedWeek.com, the largest timeshare marketplace, is partnering with the Timeshare Crusader, Lisa Ann Schreier, to further awareness of and education about timesharing. Schreier is the founder and director of Timeshare Insights, a consumer consulting and education organization, and the author of several timeshare books.
“The timeshare industry is complex,” says Maurice Aubrey, RedWeek president and CTO. ““As a leader in the secondary market, our goal is to ensure consumers make informed decisions, so having Lisa share her experience and knowledge with us is a welcome addition."
With the help of Schreier, RedWeek established a dedicated Ask the Timeshare Crusader page on the site, and runs a standing Timeshare Crusader column in their monthly newsletter which reaches more than 500,000 timeshare owners and travelers worldwide. In addition, RedWeek has created an Ask the Timeshare Crusader topic on their forums pages for users to interact directly with Lisa.
“I'm delighted to work with RedWeek.com on this important initiative. Today, more than ever, consumers need to become more educated about timeshare so that they can make wise vacation and financial choices,” say Schreier. “I'm looking forward to enhancing this partnership, which I'm confident will go a long way to bringing about positive change to the timeshare industry and consumers everywhere.”
The RedWeek.com by-owner model allows timeshare owners to advertise their unused weeks for rent and resale, and individuals contact them directly to arrange a transaction. The site offers a comprehensive resources section with valuable information for owners, buyers and travelers. Resource topics include: timeshare pros and cons, determining whether timeshare ownership works for your lifestyle, and timeshare purchase options, the differences between buying a timeshare resale vs. buying directly from a developer.
To learn more about RedWeek.com or timesharing visit www.redweek.com.
About RedWeek.com LLC:
RedWeek.com is a member-supported marketplace for timeshare rentals, resales, and exchanges. You can find reviews, ratings, prices, availability and complete resort descriptions for more than 5,000 timeshare resorts worldwide to make vacation selection easier.
Boasting an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, RedWeek has more than 1,400,000 registered users. The site was launched in November 2002.
About Lisa Ann Schreier
Lisa Ann Schreier, The Timeshare Crusader, is the author of both Surviving A Timeshare Presentation and Timeshare Vacations For Dummies. She is a former timeshare salesperson now dedicated to helping consumers, as well as a catalyst for positive change within the timeshare industry. Visit www.timeshareinsights.com for additional information.
Contact: RedWeek Public Relations
Phone: (425) 458-4440
RedWeek.com, the largest timeshare marketplace, partners with Timeshare Crusader Lisa Ann Schreier to further awareness of and education about timesharing
Seattle, WA (Vocus/PRWEB ) May 25, 2010 -- RedWeek.com, the largest timeshare marketplace, is partnering with the Timeshare Crusader, Lisa Ann Schreier, to further awareness of and education about timesharing. Schreier is the founder and director of Timeshare Insights, a consumer consulting and education organization, and the author of several timeshare books.
“The timeshare industry is complex,” says Maurice Aubrey, RedWeek president and CTO. ““As a leader in the secondary market, our goal is to ensure consumers make informed decisions, so having Lisa share her experience and knowledge with us is a welcome addition."
With the help of Schreier, RedWeek established a dedicated Ask the Timeshare Crusader page on the site, and runs a standing Timeshare Crusader column in their monthly newsletter which reaches more than 500,000 timeshare owners and travelers worldwide. In addition, RedWeek has created an Ask the Timeshare Crusader topic on their forums pages for users to interact directly with Lisa.
“I'm delighted to work with RedWeek.com on this important initiative. Today, more than ever, consumers need to become more educated about timeshare so that they can make wise vacation and financial choices,” say Schreier. “I'm looking forward to enhancing this partnership, which I'm confident will go a long way to bringing about positive change to the timeshare industry and consumers everywhere.”
The RedWeek.com by-owner model allows timeshare owners to advertise their unused weeks for rent and resale, and individuals contact them directly to arrange a transaction. The site offers a comprehensive resources section with valuable information for owners, buyers and travelers. Resource topics include: timeshare pros and cons, determining whether timeshare ownership works for your lifestyle, and timeshare purchase options, the differences between buying a timeshare resale vs. buying directly from a developer.
To learn more about RedWeek.com or timesharing visit www.redweek.com.
About RedWeek.com LLC:
RedWeek.com is a member-supported marketplace for timeshare rentals, resales, and exchanges. You can find reviews, ratings, prices, availability and complete resort descriptions for more than 5,000 timeshare resorts worldwide to make vacation selection easier.
Boasting an A+ Better Business Bureau rating, RedWeek has more than 1,400,000 registered users. The site was launched in November 2002.
About Lisa Ann Schreier
Lisa Ann Schreier, The Timeshare Crusader, is the author of both Surviving A Timeshare Presentation and Timeshare Vacations For Dummies. She is a former timeshare salesperson now dedicated to helping consumers, as well as a catalyst for positive change within the timeshare industry. Visit www.timeshareinsights.com for additional information.
Contact: RedWeek Public Relations
Phone: (425) 458-4440
Friday, May 14, 2010
ARDA issues warning to timeshare owners
This was released today as a press release to the public. ARDA, short for American Resort Developers Association, works hard to protect consumers of timeshares.
ADVISORY IV
May 14, 2010
As part ARDA’s effort to provide consumers with guidance about the secondary marketplace and useful tips about
the resale process, this advisory is to make consumers aware of two deceptive resale solicitations that target timeshare
owners.
According to an April 2010 release issued by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
(FDACS), the newest scheme is being used in combination with other unethical or fraudulent resale solicitations.
Beware of ‘Reloading’
The practice of ‘reloading’ is when an individual or company contacts a consumer who has already been victimized
by an unethical resale company. The claim is that they can recoup the upfront-fee lost in the original scam. The call
may actually be from the same company that conducted the first scam, only reorganized under a new name. Or the
call may be from a disgruntled former employee of the original company who uses the victims’ contact information
to run a new scam.
The FDACS warns that in either case the chances are minimal that consumers will recover any money. The latest
twist on this particular fraud has someone calling the original victim claiming to be from the first company that
took the upfront fee. This time, the caller will offer to refund the victim’s money, but will ask for a credit card
number “to facilitate the transaction.” If consumers again provide credit card numbers, they will lose money a
second time.
Bogus Rental Offers
Timeshare owners should also be skeptical of rental company solicitations that claim the company can rent owners’
vacation weeks or their “extra/bonus” weeks. While bonus weeks or bonus time is a legitimate benefit offered by
some – but not all – timeshare resorts, owners cannot rent them and may be in violation of their resorts’ rules if
they do. (Bonus weeks or bonus time is generally unused time that can be reserved only by other owners for a low
fee typically 30 days before the time is available.
The alleged rental company entices the consumer by claiming to have interested renters. The company quotes an
unrealistically-high rental rate, asks for an advance fee (upwards of $700) and a credit card number so the company
“can be authorized to represent the consumer in the rental transaction.” The advance fee is taken and the consumer
never hears of rentals again.
ARDA cautions consumers to make sure they understand the disclosures, promises, transfer protocols and recourse
available to them prior to writing a check, giving a credit card number or any other form of payment to a reseller.
And please check with your home owners association to see if a less expensive option is available to you. For more
resales information, please visit www.ARDA.org/resales. Visit ARDA’s consumer web site at
www.VacationBetter.org for more information about timeshares.
ADVISORY IV
May 14, 2010
As part ARDA’s effort to provide consumers with guidance about the secondary marketplace and useful tips about
the resale process, this advisory is to make consumers aware of two deceptive resale solicitations that target timeshare
owners.
According to an April 2010 release issued by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
(FDACS), the newest scheme is being used in combination with other unethical or fraudulent resale solicitations.
Beware of ‘Reloading’
The practice of ‘reloading’ is when an individual or company contacts a consumer who has already been victimized
by an unethical resale company. The claim is that they can recoup the upfront-fee lost in the original scam. The call
may actually be from the same company that conducted the first scam, only reorganized under a new name. Or the
call may be from a disgruntled former employee of the original company who uses the victims’ contact information
to run a new scam.
The FDACS warns that in either case the chances are minimal that consumers will recover any money. The latest
twist on this particular fraud has someone calling the original victim claiming to be from the first company that
took the upfront fee. This time, the caller will offer to refund the victim’s money, but will ask for a credit card
number “to facilitate the transaction.” If consumers again provide credit card numbers, they will lose money a
second time.
Bogus Rental Offers
Timeshare owners should also be skeptical of rental company solicitations that claim the company can rent owners’
vacation weeks or their “extra/bonus” weeks. While bonus weeks or bonus time is a legitimate benefit offered by
some – but not all – timeshare resorts, owners cannot rent them and may be in violation of their resorts’ rules if
they do. (Bonus weeks or bonus time is generally unused time that can be reserved only by other owners for a low
fee typically 30 days before the time is available.
The alleged rental company entices the consumer by claiming to have interested renters. The company quotes an
unrealistically-high rental rate, asks for an advance fee (upwards of $700) and a credit card number so the company
“can be authorized to represent the consumer in the rental transaction.” The advance fee is taken and the consumer
never hears of rentals again.
ARDA cautions consumers to make sure they understand the disclosures, promises, transfer protocols and recourse
available to them prior to writing a check, giving a credit card number or any other form of payment to a reseller.
And please check with your home owners association to see if a less expensive option is available to you. For more
resales information, please visit www.ARDA.org/resales. Visit ARDA’s consumer web site at
www.VacationBetter.org for more information about timeshares.
The Cove on Ormond Beach
The Resort Trades
Thought this was pretty interesting!
The Cove On Ormond Beach Ranked as One of World’s
Best Hotels on Expedia® Insiders’ Select™ List
Expedia® travelers have ranked The Cove On Ormond Beach among the world’s best hotels on this year’s Expedia Insiders’ Select™ list.
Published May 13, 2010
Expedia® travelers have ranked The Cove On Ormond Beach among the world’s best hotels on this year’s Expedia Insiders’ Select™ list. The list formally recognizes individual hotels worldwide that consistently deliver excellent service, a great overall experience and a notable value. The full list represents only a small percentage of the world’s top hotels from the more than 110,000 hotel properties offered on Expedia.
“Delivering superior service to our guests is a top priority at The Cove On Ormond Beach,” said Sulyn Stumbras, Island One Resorts Hospitality Group president. “We are pleased that our efforts have been acknowledged by Expedia travelers and look forward to extending our high level of service to even more guests. General Manager Regina Barbour and her team truly exemplify our commitment to hospitality.”
The 2010 Expedia Insiders’ Select™ list is compiled based on the more than one million Traveler Opinions hotel reviews collected by Expedia, combined with a value rating and the local market expertise of more than 400 Expedia employees in local markets worldwide, resulting in an easy-to-browse list that provides travelers with a powerful way to find the perfect hotel using the trusted insight of other travelers like them. The list showcases the diverse selection of travel destinations and hotel properties
The Cove On Ormond Beach, in Ormond Beach, Florida, is a 112-villa resort situated on the beach of the Atlantic Ocean. The resort’s villas are comprised of studios, one- and two-bedroom accommodations. All villas feature an ocean view, full kitchen and private balcony. The resort was originally comprised of a 54-villa tower. An adjacent 58-villa addition to the existing resort structure opened in 2006. Resort amenities include: oceanfront activity deck featuring a two-story tube slide;indoor heated swimming pool;owners lounge; oceanfront hot tub; game room; organized activities; barbecue and picnic area; fitness center; private beach access; 1,500 gallon salt water aquarium; private oceanview balconies; concierge services; and wi-fi access
Island One Resorts has provided extraordinary timeshare vacation experiences through resort development and hospitality management since 1981. The company’s 750 team members are focused upon providing innovative and value-driven benefits to its over 65,000 owners. Its points-based vacation club, Club Navigo, offers 30 resort destinations throughout the United States, the Caribbean, Latin America and Europe. Through Club Navigo, developers have access to award-winning sales, marketing and communications programs; operational support; state-of-the-art reservation and computer systems; and one of the most seasoned management teams ever assembled in the industry. To learn more about Island One Resorts, visit islandone.com or clubnavigo.com.
CONTACT: Sheila Morris: 407.215.4255 sheila.morris@islandone.com.
Thought this was pretty interesting!
The Cove On Ormond Beach Ranked as One of World’s
Best Hotels on Expedia® Insiders’ Select™ List
Expedia® travelers have ranked The Cove On Ormond Beach among the world’s best hotels on this year’s Expedia Insiders’ Select™ list.
Published May 13, 2010
Expedia® travelers have ranked The Cove On Ormond Beach among the world’s best hotels on this year’s Expedia Insiders’ Select™ list. The list formally recognizes individual hotels worldwide that consistently deliver excellent service, a great overall experience and a notable value. The full list represents only a small percentage of the world’s top hotels from the more than 110,000 hotel properties offered on Expedia.
“Delivering superior service to our guests is a top priority at The Cove On Ormond Beach,” said Sulyn Stumbras, Island One Resorts Hospitality Group president. “We are pleased that our efforts have been acknowledged by Expedia travelers and look forward to extending our high level of service to even more guests. General Manager Regina Barbour and her team truly exemplify our commitment to hospitality.”
The 2010 Expedia Insiders’ Select™ list is compiled based on the more than one million Traveler Opinions hotel reviews collected by Expedia, combined with a value rating and the local market expertise of more than 400 Expedia employees in local markets worldwide, resulting in an easy-to-browse list that provides travelers with a powerful way to find the perfect hotel using the trusted insight of other travelers like them. The list showcases the diverse selection of travel destinations and hotel properties
The Cove On Ormond Beach, in Ormond Beach, Florida, is a 112-villa resort situated on the beach of the Atlantic Ocean. The resort’s villas are comprised of studios, one- and two-bedroom accommodations. All villas feature an ocean view, full kitchen and private balcony. The resort was originally comprised of a 54-villa tower. An adjacent 58-villa addition to the existing resort structure opened in 2006. Resort amenities include: oceanfront activity deck featuring a two-story tube slide;indoor heated swimming pool;owners lounge; oceanfront hot tub; game room; organized activities; barbecue and picnic area; fitness center; private beach access; 1,500 gallon salt water aquarium; private oceanview balconies; concierge services; and wi-fi access
Island One Resorts has provided extraordinary timeshare vacation experiences through resort development and hospitality management since 1981. The company’s 750 team members are focused upon providing innovative and value-driven benefits to its over 65,000 owners. Its points-based vacation club, Club Navigo, offers 30 resort destinations throughout the United States, the Caribbean, Latin America and Europe. Through Club Navigo, developers have access to award-winning sales, marketing and communications programs; operational support; state-of-the-art reservation and computer systems; and one of the most seasoned management teams ever assembled in the industry. To learn more about Island One Resorts, visit islandone.com or clubnavigo.com.
CONTACT: Sheila Morris: 407.215.4255 sheila.morris@islandone.com.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Resort Equity Marketing timeshare resales
Here is an interesting article I found this morning with complaints about this company. Thought you should check it out too!
http://bit.ly/aQZb2N
http://bit.ly/aQZb2N
Friday, May 7, 2010
Timeshare resale complaints
I came across this article printed today on some timeshare resale scams in southern Florida. Very interesting indeed. Sorry I could not watch the actual news broadcast but the station isnt available here.
The article starts off with:
Timeshare resale complaints
Posted: May 06, 2010 3:58 PM EDT
Updated: May 07, 2010 6:17 PM EDT
Video Gallery
Timeshare resale complaints
3:43
Text/Email Alerts More>>Find out first with Breaking News AlertsSign up for Traffic AlertsLocal Events in your InboxLocal News More>>Another hot weekend aheadGuilty on all counts: Man convicted on murder chargesPhotos: Airman killed in Vietnam War arrives homeRenter stung 140 times inside bee-infested homeTimeshare resale complaintsVolunteers start oil spill cleanup trainingOil spill could cause problems for sea turtles"Rubba Bandz" craze hits Southwest FloridaPolice: Student brings gun to Fort Myers High SchoolSuspected in Cape burglaries, 3 teens arrested"It's right in the middle of colonial America," said Michael Piccininne, describing his timeshare property in Virginia.
"It's right on a mountain, great for skiing," Doreen Cunningham said of hers.
"Marriott was a very desirable property," explained Bill Ranagan of his Orlando timeshare.
Piccininne, Cunningham and Ranagan are three Southwest Floridians amontg the thousands of timeshare owners nationwide desperate to unload their property.
To view the rest of the story go to..
http://www.nbc-2.com/Global/story.asp?S=12440627
The article starts off with:
Timeshare resale complaints
Posted: May 06, 2010 3:58 PM EDT
Updated: May 07, 2010 6:17 PM EDT
Video Gallery
Timeshare resale complaints
3:43
Text/Email Alerts More>>Find out first with Breaking News AlertsSign up for Traffic AlertsLocal Events in your InboxLocal News More>>Another hot weekend aheadGuilty on all counts: Man convicted on murder chargesPhotos: Airman killed in Vietnam War arrives homeRenter stung 140 times inside bee-infested homeTimeshare resale complaintsVolunteers start oil spill cleanup trainingOil spill could cause problems for sea turtles"Rubba Bandz" craze hits Southwest FloridaPolice: Student brings gun to Fort Myers High SchoolSuspected in Cape burglaries, 3 teens arrested"It's right in the middle of colonial America," said Michael Piccininne, describing his timeshare property in Virginia.
"It's right on a mountain, great for skiing," Doreen Cunningham said of hers.
"Marriott was a very desirable property," explained Bill Ranagan of his Orlando timeshare.
Piccininne, Cunningham and Ranagan are three Southwest Floridians amontg the thousands of timeshare owners nationwide desperate to unload their property.
To view the rest of the story go to..
http://www.nbc-2.com/Global/story.asp?S=12440627
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Timeshare Resales Help from ARDA
In a timeshare industry publication, Developments magazine, the American Resort Development Association (www.arda.org) discussed further how it is working to protect consumers and the timeshare industry where resales are concerned.
ARDA has been working with a Resale Task Force to create education and protection for timeshare resale buyers and sellers. There are two entities that timeshare consumers can utilize to learn about timeshare reslaes so they are not taken advantage of unexpectedly by fraudsters. Please visit VacationBetter.Org and ARDAROC.org for information on these services.
ARDA is still reviewing input and comments on the Model Resales Act and as more developments occur with this, I will keep you posted.
ARDA has been working with a Resale Task Force to create education and protection for timeshare resale buyers and sellers. There are two entities that timeshare consumers can utilize to learn about timeshare reslaes so they are not taken advantage of unexpectedly by fraudsters. Please visit VacationBetter.Org and ARDAROC.org for information on these services.
ARDA is still reviewing input and comments on the Model Resales Act and as more developments occur with this, I will keep you posted.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
The Resort Trades
The link below is to an article about the American Resort Development Association and how this group is working to educate and protect consumers.
The Resort Trades
The Resort Trades
Massanutten Timeshare Resort
I can speak about Massanutten resort from the perspective of a timeshare vacationer/owner, an employee, and a resident. My parents went to work at Massanutten resort in the early 80's. We lived at the resort and through the years, myself, my brother, my sister n law, my nephew, my daughter and two nieces worked there along with many dear friends. I havent been there for a few years now in an employee capacity nor do I still live there, but for about two decades it was a part of my life.
Massanutten Resort is one of the places you purchase a timeshare at because that is where you plan to vacation. It is true that it holds exchange power with RCI, but people who start travelling there normally wind up falling in love with it to a point of not wanting to give up their weeks there. Many owners will use their primary week at Massanutten and then use their bonus weeks to travel elsewhere if at all.
Massanutten has every size unit imaginable, along with snow skiing and two indoor sports facilities. The sports facilities have indoor swimming pools, racquetball, spas, diners, fitness rooms, ping pong, games, just about everything you can imagine! Massanutten resort also has an indoor water park along with two PGA championship golf courses. There are miles of beautiful hiking trails, outdoor tennis and swimming and most importantly, the kids are safe to take off for awhile on their own. The only real problem with the resort is that Massanutten is so huge that it is hard to get around the entire resort without transportation.
You can find plenty of timeshare resales at Massanutten resort on the internet and at local vendors or brokers in the area, and you can also track down some great timeshare rentals too. Buying direct from the developer will ofcourse give you benefits that the resale market does not offer such as the Gold Card membership which basically gives you discounts and the right to use the resort any time you wish even when it is not your designated timeshare week. Among other resale companies that have great prices for Massanutten timeshare resales, check out SellMyTimeshareNOW.com, MyResortNetwork.com and the National Timeshare Help Center. If you have direct or specific questions about Massanutten Resort that I can help you out with, feel free to ask!
Massanutten Resort is one of the places you purchase a timeshare at because that is where you plan to vacation. It is true that it holds exchange power with RCI, but people who start travelling there normally wind up falling in love with it to a point of not wanting to give up their weeks there. Many owners will use their primary week at Massanutten and then use their bonus weeks to travel elsewhere if at all.
Massanutten has every size unit imaginable, along with snow skiing and two indoor sports facilities. The sports facilities have indoor swimming pools, racquetball, spas, diners, fitness rooms, ping pong, games, just about everything you can imagine! Massanutten resort also has an indoor water park along with two PGA championship golf courses. There are miles of beautiful hiking trails, outdoor tennis and swimming and most importantly, the kids are safe to take off for awhile on their own. The only real problem with the resort is that Massanutten is so huge that it is hard to get around the entire resort without transportation.
You can find plenty of timeshare resales at Massanutten resort on the internet and at local vendors or brokers in the area, and you can also track down some great timeshare rentals too. Buying direct from the developer will ofcourse give you benefits that the resale market does not offer such as the Gold Card membership which basically gives you discounts and the right to use the resort any time you wish even when it is not your designated timeshare week. Among other resale companies that have great prices for Massanutten timeshare resales, check out SellMyTimeshareNOW.com, MyResortNetwork.com and the National Timeshare Help Center. If you have direct or specific questions about Massanutten Resort that I can help you out with, feel free to ask!
Vacation plans mean avoiding scams - Lifestyle
Here is another article that I thought you should read. This was posted May 1st in the Daytona Journal by Aaron London. It discusses various scams that trap consumers.
Vacation plans mean avoiding scams - Lifestyle
The article discusses rental scams, vacation package scam, fraudulent timeshares and other timeshare and travel scams that you should watch out for. Again, not everyone is a scam but education is the key to protect yourself!
Vacation plans mean avoiding scams - Lifestyle
The article discusses rental scams, vacation package scam, fraudulent timeshares and other timeshare and travel scams that you should watch out for. Again, not everyone is a scam but education is the key to protect yourself!
Florida Timeshare Resales Scams
I wanted to share this article with you. I have spent a bit of time trying to point out to you companies that I feel are honest and can help you sell or rent your timeshare, but thought I would stop a minute and show you who the Florida AG feels are "not" the good guys.. if you are approached by any of these mentioned here, then consider yourself educated now.
http://bit.ly/btnuyX
After reading this article, I also recommend again that you visit VacationBetter.org which is a website created by the American Resort Development Association and is designed to help educate the consumer about timeshare resales and rentals.
http://bit.ly/btnuyX
After reading this article, I also recommend again that you visit VacationBetter.org which is a website created by the American Resort Development Association and is designed to help educate the consumer about timeshare resales and rentals.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
My Resort Network
While I attended the CARE Conference in New Orleans, I had the pleasure of meeting and visiting with the owners and management from MyResortNetwork.com. MyResortNetwork.com is a website that is a "For Sale By Owner" platform much like Redweek.com or SellMyTimeshareNOW.com. It is a high traffic website where owners of timeshare can post their timeshare properties for sale or rent and recieve their buyer and renter leads directly, thereby skipping paying commission to a brokerage.
There are many timeshare brokers who search for buyers and sellers on this website so by engaging on this website, you are likely to be approached by a company wanting to assist you in the purchase or sale of your timeshare, but this is not necessarily a bad thing. Your goal if you are trying to sell your timeshare is to be "seen" and this website certainly would be a good route to go. Give them a look while you are determining what path you are going to take while trying to sell your timeshare and you might decide that these guys are right for you.
There are many timeshare brokers who search for buyers and sellers on this website so by engaging on this website, you are likely to be approached by a company wanting to assist you in the purchase or sale of your timeshare, but this is not necessarily a bad thing. Your goal if you are trying to sell your timeshare is to be "seen" and this website certainly would be a good route to go. Give them a look while you are determining what path you are going to take while trying to sell your timeshare and you might decide that these guys are right for you.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Warning to Theme Park Visitors about Timeshare Skipping Fraud
Timeshare Industry News:
I found this interesting important blog from a trusted timeshare industry source. The Timeshare Authority which is a blog produced by Jason Tremblay, CEO of Sell My Timeshare NOW.
If you are considering going on a vacation to Orlando and picking up theme park tickets at a discount, please read this blog!!
http://bit.ly/cPNzhk
I found this interesting important blog from a trusted timeshare industry source. The Timeshare Authority which is a blog produced by Jason Tremblay, CEO of Sell My Timeshare NOW.
If you are considering going on a vacation to Orlando and picking up theme park tickets at a discount, please read this blog!!
http://bit.ly/cPNzhk
ARDA announces Joint Consumer Education Program
Washington, DC – April 27, 2010 – The American Resort Development Association (ARDA) and the National Timeshare Owners Association (NTOA), have announced a year-long campaign to help educate consumers about timeshare vacations. The first initiative answers ten of the most frequently asked questions
Read the full story here..
http://bit.ly/a0dPbe
Read the full story here..
http://bit.ly/a0dPbe
Friday, April 23, 2010
ARDAs proposed timeshare model act
It has been a little over a month since the ARDA convention where the Proposed Model Resales Act was such a hot topic! Many in the timeshare industry, from Developers to consumers, recognize this matter as one of high priority. The Model Resales Act will be used to guide Resale Companies in ARDA with policies that will better protect and serve both buyers and sellers of timeshare on the secondary market. The ultimate goal is to help set precedence for legislation on the state government levels that will benefit the industry as well as provide protection to consumers.
Recently, Management & Operations Magazine, sister publication of the Resort Trades interviewed Ken McKelvey. Mr. McKelvey, CEO of Defender resorts had also told us that much of the terminology in the Act was confusing even to someone coming from the resale industry. He felt however that this was a good foundation to start from and that future comment and suggestions would help mold the Act to its desired outcome.
I became curious as to any updates or developments on this topic, so I contacted Howard Nusbaum, President of ARDA and asked him what has transpired since the convention last month. According to Mr. Nusbaum, ARDA is still reviewing both verbal and written feedback about the Proposed Model Resale Act.
Concerning these questions about the Act, Mr. Nusbaum stated that “Several comments reveal some serious misunderstandings which lead us to believe the Task Force needs to be clearer in the drafting and that ARDA needs to do a better job of explaining the act and not assume that everyone is familiar with the nuances of previous legislation and/or legal opinions.”
Mr. Nusbaum went to further explain that despite the questions and misunderstandings, many comments ARDA has received have been extremely helpful in providing knowledge of what issues need to be further addressed and have also pointed to many good recommendations.
This process is still in its early stages and a large number of people in the industry are still new to many of these ideas that have been sited. The timeshare industry is encouraged to continue asking questions and providing feedback while ARDA and the Resale Task Force continue to move through the stages of completing and implementing the Act.
Mr. Nusbaum stated in conclusion that “The members of the Model Resale Act Task Force are reviewing and incorporating these comments. When that is complete it will be sent to the ARDA Board of Directors for their review”.
A recommended reading of the article “Resales 360” will be in the June edition of ARDA’s popular magazine Developments, for those following this topic and wishing to learn further information.
Thank you to Mr. Nusbaum for taking time to share this update information!
Recently, Management & Operations Magazine, sister publication of the Resort Trades interviewed Ken McKelvey. Mr. McKelvey, CEO of Defender resorts had also told us that much of the terminology in the Act was confusing even to someone coming from the resale industry. He felt however that this was a good foundation to start from and that future comment and suggestions would help mold the Act to its desired outcome.
I became curious as to any updates or developments on this topic, so I contacted Howard Nusbaum, President of ARDA and asked him what has transpired since the convention last month. According to Mr. Nusbaum, ARDA is still reviewing both verbal and written feedback about the Proposed Model Resale Act.
Concerning these questions about the Act, Mr. Nusbaum stated that “Several comments reveal some serious misunderstandings which lead us to believe the Task Force needs to be clearer in the drafting and that ARDA needs to do a better job of explaining the act and not assume that everyone is familiar with the nuances of previous legislation and/or legal opinions.”
Mr. Nusbaum went to further explain that despite the questions and misunderstandings, many comments ARDA has received have been extremely helpful in providing knowledge of what issues need to be further addressed and have also pointed to many good recommendations.
This process is still in its early stages and a large number of people in the industry are still new to many of these ideas that have been sited. The timeshare industry is encouraged to continue asking questions and providing feedback while ARDA and the Resale Task Force continue to move through the stages of completing and implementing the Act.
Mr. Nusbaum stated in conclusion that “The members of the Model Resale Act Task Force are reviewing and incorporating these comments. When that is complete it will be sent to the ARDA Board of Directors for their review”.
A recommended reading of the article “Resales 360” will be in the June edition of ARDA’s popular magazine Developments, for those following this topic and wishing to learn further information.
Thank you to Mr. Nusbaum for taking time to share this update information!
Upcoming trip to New Orleans
Hi there followers!
I just wanted to post a note that I will be gone for a few days to New Orleans. I will try to post while gone but if I dont, dont give up on me! I will be back Tuesday night so will be back online Wednesday if not before then. I will try to bring back pictures to share here with you! IN the meantime, keep the questions coming and I will try to have more information for you when I return!
I just wanted to post a note that I will be gone for a few days to New Orleans. I will try to post while gone but if I dont, dont give up on me! I will be back Tuesday night so will be back online Wednesday if not before then. I will try to bring back pictures to share here with you! IN the meantime, keep the questions coming and I will try to have more information for you when I return!
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Abc News Nightline Covers Timeshare News – Selling a Timeshare – Buyer Beware
Here is an interview on ABC that was conducted with the leader of the Timeshare Users Group. Though I do not like the way that group is so negative and how they jump to conclusions on any and every timeshare entity and person and company out there, still, this was a good interview. I again in no way am suggesting you go to TUG and have your head filled with overly negative information, here he does give solid truth.
Abc News Nightline Covers Timeshare News – Selling a Timeshare – Buyer Beware
Abc News Nightline Covers Timeshare News – Selling a Timeshare – Buyer Beware
Should you buy a Timeshare? Should you keep the one you have?
Many people have heard great things about timeshares from their neighbors or family about timeshares, and are considering purchasing one for themselves. The rest of you already purchased a timeshare and just feel the financial burden too heavy so you want to sell it or get rid of it.
It is irrelevant if you purchased your timeshare for $1 on Ebay or $30,000 direct from a retailer. Once you own a timeshare, there is a reason to own it. There is a reason your neighbors bragged about theirs, and there is a reason you were inclined to purchase it to start with. Timeshares provide you and your family with a way to vacation without staying in hotel rooms. Timeshares provide a kitchen, living room, dining room, and seperate bedrooms usually. Timeshares force you to think of and plan for your vacation each year.. and a vacation is a time period spent away from work and friends, to be with family and create memories. Timeshares allow you to stay in luxurious resorts with swimming pools and activities versus staying in an economical hotel room that forces you to eat out at restraunts and becomes constricting and frustrating.
Many people complain about the maintenance fees for example. They want to sell their timeshare because they are tired of paying that $600 per year maintenance fee. Well.. lets see. If you book a hotel room for 7 days in a hotel on the beach, you are going to pay just about $600. You will eat your meals out. You will be cramped in the room with the whole family, and noone has any privacy at bedtime.
I guess my point is that there are so many people on the internet complaining about being "suckered" into buying a timeshare or feeling like they paid too much, or even just simply not wanting to tell their friends they bought one, and the trend goes towards trying to sell it for next to nothing. I just wonder if you really stopped to think about what a timeshare is and the reasons for keeping it while you are in the middle of trying to find a way to sell it.
If you truly are not able to use it anymore then yes, go on and try to sell it. But if it is just that you dont WANT to go on a vacation every year with your family, then you NEED the timeshare!
It is irrelevant if you purchased your timeshare for $1 on Ebay or $30,000 direct from a retailer. Once you own a timeshare, there is a reason to own it. There is a reason your neighbors bragged about theirs, and there is a reason you were inclined to purchase it to start with. Timeshares provide you and your family with a way to vacation without staying in hotel rooms. Timeshares provide a kitchen, living room, dining room, and seperate bedrooms usually. Timeshares force you to think of and plan for your vacation each year.. and a vacation is a time period spent away from work and friends, to be with family and create memories. Timeshares allow you to stay in luxurious resorts with swimming pools and activities versus staying in an economical hotel room that forces you to eat out at restraunts and becomes constricting and frustrating.
Many people complain about the maintenance fees for example. They want to sell their timeshare because they are tired of paying that $600 per year maintenance fee. Well.. lets see. If you book a hotel room for 7 days in a hotel on the beach, you are going to pay just about $600. You will eat your meals out. You will be cramped in the room with the whole family, and noone has any privacy at bedtime.
I guess my point is that there are so many people on the internet complaining about being "suckered" into buying a timeshare or feeling like they paid too much, or even just simply not wanting to tell their friends they bought one, and the trend goes towards trying to sell it for next to nothing. I just wonder if you really stopped to think about what a timeshare is and the reasons for keeping it while you are in the middle of trying to find a way to sell it.
If you truly are not able to use it anymore then yes, go on and try to sell it. But if it is just that you dont WANT to go on a vacation every year with your family, then you NEED the timeshare!
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Timeshare Trade Ins, or Timeshare Donations
Have you tried renting or selling your timeshare and have had no luck?
There is one other option you could consider. The option typically comes with no financial reward for you but it is on option that will remove your timeshare from your name and get you out from under those maintenance fees if you are not using the vacation weeks.
There are several companies that will accept your timeshare as a donation. You will transfer the title to them and then they will try to sell the timeshare and give the revenue towards a charitable foundation. Typically, this can include some sort of tax write off for you but in order for that to occur, you must make sure you are "donating your timeshare" and not "trading in your timeshare" because there is truly a difference.
Typically trading in your timeshare will happen while you are on a presentation to purchase another timeshare or a vacation club. The timeshare you are trading in will be used to reduce the purchase price of the new product. This trade in procedure is very similiar to the same idea of trading in your car to purchase a new one. If you wind up doing this process, you need to stay in touch with the transfer title company to ensure that the transfer is completed. Often people have reported that they thought they traded in a timeshare, but the following years maintenance fees arrived only to have the resort inform the owner that no such transfer occured. This catches many people paying an added and unexpected maintenance fee! In the long run, it is your responsibility to make sure that the transfer company contacts you and that there is paperwork and deeds being signed. The process should take approximately 6 to 12 weeks depending on the resort and its location. This process has no tax write offs.
A timeshare donation will be to an organization that will provide you with the paperwork needed to file for a tax write off. It will usually be a company or group that you yourself search for and contact. Before moving forward though, you need to verify and ask questions about the charity. The last thing you want to do is realize after it is too late that you literally gave away your timeshare with nothing in return at all, not even a tax write off!
There is one other option you could consider. The option typically comes with no financial reward for you but it is on option that will remove your timeshare from your name and get you out from under those maintenance fees if you are not using the vacation weeks.
There are several companies that will accept your timeshare as a donation. You will transfer the title to them and then they will try to sell the timeshare and give the revenue towards a charitable foundation. Typically, this can include some sort of tax write off for you but in order for that to occur, you must make sure you are "donating your timeshare" and not "trading in your timeshare" because there is truly a difference.
Typically trading in your timeshare will happen while you are on a presentation to purchase another timeshare or a vacation club. The timeshare you are trading in will be used to reduce the purchase price of the new product. This trade in procedure is very similiar to the same idea of trading in your car to purchase a new one. If you wind up doing this process, you need to stay in touch with the transfer title company to ensure that the transfer is completed. Often people have reported that they thought they traded in a timeshare, but the following years maintenance fees arrived only to have the resort inform the owner that no such transfer occured. This catches many people paying an added and unexpected maintenance fee! In the long run, it is your responsibility to make sure that the transfer company contacts you and that there is paperwork and deeds being signed. The process should take approximately 6 to 12 weeks depending on the resort and its location. This process has no tax write offs.
A timeshare donation will be to an organization that will provide you with the paperwork needed to file for a tax write off. It will usually be a company or group that you yourself search for and contact. Before moving forward though, you need to verify and ask questions about the charity. The last thing you want to do is realize after it is too late that you literally gave away your timeshare with nothing in return at all, not even a tax write off!
ARDA, Vacation Better, Timeshare Consumer information
One of the best, unbiased sources for you to get real information about buying or selling a timeshare is at VacationBetter.Org. This information is put together for you by the American Resort Development Association and is designed to protect you, the consumer, and give you the truth. There are so many forums, sites and blogs out there which try to lead you towards their way of thinking. Many will say "Dont use this company or that company" and it is simply because, its that companies competition running for your attention. Also, getting your information from consumers who were not educated enough of their own purchase and are now just angry or even overly happy, is not a better idea. Listen to some of those thoughts and ideas on the internet but, in the end, go somewhere that will be honest, unbiased, and helpful.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Once you sell your timeshare, you have to find a Transfer Company!
One of the pieces of selling your timeshare or vacation certificate that many people do not think about , is that once you have a buyer you have to find someone to handle the transfer of the property. The transfer costs are typically paid by the buyer so you want to research this step ahead of time and make sure that you disclose to the buyer how much it will cost them once they have purchased from you.
If your title is not transferred properly, you might find out next year that the timeshare resort still views you as the owner and is sending the maintenance fees and assessments to you instead of your buyer. Local attorneys, even real estate attorneys, typically are not the best answer for this transaction. You normally are located in one state, your timeshare in another state, the buyer in another state and so on. The entity that performs your timeshare title transfer must be knowledgeable and practiced in coordinating the real estate laws of all states or locations. This is a very specialized industry.
Though i will not say to you that there are "transfer scams" out there, as I have not run across any and they are regulated so heavily that they wouldnt last long if they appeared, I do maintain that there are several timeshare transfer companies who are faster, more effiicient, more complete and better educated then others. I have a few faveorites that you should consider. Some are more expensive, which does not always mean they are the best. Some are bigger and more well known, but that does not mean that they will give you personal service beyond the smaller ones. Alot of your considerations should be the timeshare resort you own at, and the transfer company specializing in that area or resort system. You should call several of these companies and ask your questions to determine which would be best suited to transfer your timeshare title.
If your title is not transferred properly, you might find out next year that the timeshare resort still views you as the owner and is sending the maintenance fees and assessments to you instead of your buyer. Local attorneys, even real estate attorneys, typically are not the best answer for this transaction. You normally are located in one state, your timeshare in another state, the buyer in another state and so on. The entity that performs your timeshare title transfer must be knowledgeable and practiced in coordinating the real estate laws of all states or locations. This is a very specialized industry.
Though i will not say to you that there are "transfer scams" out there, as I have not run across any and they are regulated so heavily that they wouldnt last long if they appeared, I do maintain that there are several timeshare transfer companies who are faster, more effiicient, more complete and better educated then others. I have a few faveorites that you should consider. Some are more expensive, which does not always mean they are the best. Some are bigger and more well known, but that does not mean that they will give you personal service beyond the smaller ones. Alot of your considerations should be the timeshare resort you own at, and the transfer company specializing in that area or resort system. You should call several of these companies and ask your questions to determine which would be best suited to transfer your timeshare title.
Should I rent my timeshare?
To be honest, you should not own a timeshare in order to rent it out. Remember, you will still have your maintenance fees to pay and whatever commission is owed to a rental agent. Often a rental agent will need for you to exchange your week into something more desirable for it to be able to rent and so this drops your revenue margin even further due to your exchange fees. This is all assuming that it does indeed rent!
Before renting your timeshare out, you should consider space banking it into your exchange company to save for future usage. The next best option would be to offer your timeshare week to family members and friends. Often these are actually your best potential renters but you might have to make them an offer of renting simply in exchange for your maintenance fees and exchange fees.
If you find yourself completely in need of renting your timeshare week out, understand first that this should be treated in the same manner as a timeshare resale. You have to be careful about where you advertise your timeshare rental. The companies that are out there are often waiting on unsuspecting timeshare owners to catch their upfront fees, without any real attempt at getting results. Again, as I offered on the idea of a timeshare resale, I recommend two particular companies to handle your timeshare rental for you. You can post on www.redweek.com and do a "for rent by owner" ad which collects no commission, or you can contact www.sellmytimesharenow.com and have them place it for rental either on a small fee based advertisement, or on a success fee based rental listing. Either way, the same rules apply as with the resales.. you need to market your timeshare through a company that gets the highest exposure as well as has the best intentions of completing your successful transaction in finding a renter!
Before renting your timeshare out, you should consider space banking it into your exchange company to save for future usage. The next best option would be to offer your timeshare week to family members and friends. Often these are actually your best potential renters but you might have to make them an offer of renting simply in exchange for your maintenance fees and exchange fees.
If you find yourself completely in need of renting your timeshare week out, understand first that this should be treated in the same manner as a timeshare resale. You have to be careful about where you advertise your timeshare rental. The companies that are out there are often waiting on unsuspecting timeshare owners to catch their upfront fees, without any real attempt at getting results. Again, as I offered on the idea of a timeshare resale, I recommend two particular companies to handle your timeshare rental for you. You can post on www.redweek.com and do a "for rent by owner" ad which collects no commission, or you can contact www.sellmytimesharenow.com and have them place it for rental either on a small fee based advertisement, or on a success fee based rental listing. Either way, the same rules apply as with the resales.. you need to market your timeshare through a company that gets the highest exposure as well as has the best intentions of completing your successful transaction in finding a renter!
So You Want to Sell Your Timeshare?
You probably have been turned away from your timeshare resort. Your friends tell you to call the real estate broker who sold you your house, but the broker tells you they know noone in the area of your timeshare location. You most likely have spoken to resale companies, and then did your online research only to be scared to death by warnings and horrible stories. You can not figure out how to sell it yourself. So what do you do?
First of all, you have to realize that many of the horror stories are legitimate and many come from clients who did not use their better judgement and then out of anger, lashed out at everyone else for the blame.
There are two options. One is to pay a marketing advertising fee upfront and then work the buyer leads yourself. The other is to hire a traditional timeshare broker who specializes in the timeshare resale industry and will charge a commission at the end, and handle the buyers. Between these two, there is no real right or wrong choice. Paying the marketing fee, you will pay it up front but usually pay less then the commission to a broker. However, the broker will handle the buyers and negotiate the deals for you. This is a choice you will need to make on your own. The real question is "WHICH COMPANY OR BROKER TO GO WITH ONCE YOU HAVE DECIDED THE METHOD".
Just like every other business, there are a few unhappy customers no matter how good someone is. Noone can please everyone all the time and some timeshare customers are just outrageous with their expectations. If you are reasonable and logical, either choice you make can have a positive outcome.
Price your timeshare right. When someone tells you on the phone that they can make you money off of your purchase price, they are lying to you. You will not make money. You will lose money off of your original sales price. If this were not the case, the potential new buyers would go buy directly from the timeshare developer at the resort instead of looking for a timeshare resale. This is like a car purchase. It is more expensive from the dealer and you get a lower price point buying directly from an owner who has driven the car awhile and gotten their money out of it by usage.
Noone can give you an exact time frame. No one can promise you that your timeshare will sell in the next 90 days, or week or year. The odds and probability might be there, but the promise simply can not be made to you. Be ready to wait awhile, and perhaps you will get lucky if you are advertised in the right location and at the right place.
Exposure of your timeshare advertisement is a requirement. You simply have to go with someone who is ahead of the game in the industry. You must choose a timeshare company or a resale broker who has more leads, more access to nationwide clients and the ability to expose your property to as many interested timeshare buyers as possible. Consider this a numbers game. If it takes 10 no's to get one maybe, and 10 maybe's to get one yes, then you need to find someone who can provide you with those 10 no's and 10 maybes as quickly as possible.
Read between the lines. Use your logic. When you see a warning from an angry timeshare owner about how they were "scammed", read the part where he describes a timeshare agent telling him that they have "timeshare buyers waiting" and that "we can sell your timeshare for more then you paid for it" or that "all we need to sell your timeshare is this first $2000.00 to get the paperwork started". Really? This person complaining is mainly upset and angry that they were not smart enough to catch a scam being thrown right in their face! Listen for someone to tell you the truth. Listen for the timeshare agent who says to you "I can not promise you anything" or "Though I feel good about your timeshare property, we will have to stay in touch until we find a qualified buyer for your timeshare". Listen for them to say things that you dont really want to hear. Noone wants to hear the ugly truths in life, but someone willing to tell them to you is less likely to be trying to take advantage of you. Do not punish them for telling you that your timeshare will sell for about 60% of what you paid for it. This is not their fault. If you simply choose to become angry with them for telling you the truth and you instead go with the guy who has promised you results at higher prices if you just pay him first, then you deserve to feel scammed by yourself.
Try these companies for a few options to research. I feel good about suggesting them to you and feel confident that if you behave logically and listen to what they have to say, you will be satisfied and not feel scammed.
http://www.redweek.com/ - This is a For Sale By Owner site with high traffic and visibility. You will pay to enroll and advertise, but there will be no commission once it sells. This site is managed by "internet gurus" who know how to get the buyers to find them... and again.. exposure is critical!
http://www.sellmytimesharenow.com/ - Another For Sale By Owner site with incredibly high traffic for exposure. These guys are a little more personal with you and will guide you through the process along with suggesting closing companies to help with your transaction once a buyer is found. If you speak with them and they feel that you should be with a broker instead based on the property you own and the sales pricing, they will refer you to a broker that will charge you commission at the time of sale.
http://www.timesharebrokerservices.com/ - run by the same guys as sellmytimesharenow.com but is a traditional brokerage who does not charge any fee upfront. However, beware! That might sound good right here, but if your property is not a high end luxury timeshare resort such as a Marriott or Hilton, the odds are that the commission will not be enough for them to pay much attention to you. It is actually likely to be more beneficial for you to sell it on your own in this event. This is what many people do not want to tell you! But I am here to tell you the truth.
First of all, you have to realize that many of the horror stories are legitimate and many come from clients who did not use their better judgement and then out of anger, lashed out at everyone else for the blame.
There are two options. One is to pay a marketing advertising fee upfront and then work the buyer leads yourself. The other is to hire a traditional timeshare broker who specializes in the timeshare resale industry and will charge a commission at the end, and handle the buyers. Between these two, there is no real right or wrong choice. Paying the marketing fee, you will pay it up front but usually pay less then the commission to a broker. However, the broker will handle the buyers and negotiate the deals for you. This is a choice you will need to make on your own. The real question is "WHICH COMPANY OR BROKER TO GO WITH ONCE YOU HAVE DECIDED THE METHOD".
Just like every other business, there are a few unhappy customers no matter how good someone is. Noone can please everyone all the time and some timeshare customers are just outrageous with their expectations. If you are reasonable and logical, either choice you make can have a positive outcome.
Price your timeshare right. When someone tells you on the phone that they can make you money off of your purchase price, they are lying to you. You will not make money. You will lose money off of your original sales price. If this were not the case, the potential new buyers would go buy directly from the timeshare developer at the resort instead of looking for a timeshare resale. This is like a car purchase. It is more expensive from the dealer and you get a lower price point buying directly from an owner who has driven the car awhile and gotten their money out of it by usage.
Noone can give you an exact time frame. No one can promise you that your timeshare will sell in the next 90 days, or week or year. The odds and probability might be there, but the promise simply can not be made to you. Be ready to wait awhile, and perhaps you will get lucky if you are advertised in the right location and at the right place.
Exposure of your timeshare advertisement is a requirement. You simply have to go with someone who is ahead of the game in the industry. You must choose a timeshare company or a resale broker who has more leads, more access to nationwide clients and the ability to expose your property to as many interested timeshare buyers as possible. Consider this a numbers game. If it takes 10 no's to get one maybe, and 10 maybe's to get one yes, then you need to find someone who can provide you with those 10 no's and 10 maybes as quickly as possible.
Read between the lines. Use your logic. When you see a warning from an angry timeshare owner about how they were "scammed", read the part where he describes a timeshare agent telling him that they have "timeshare buyers waiting" and that "we can sell your timeshare for more then you paid for it" or that "all we need to sell your timeshare is this first $2000.00 to get the paperwork started". Really? This person complaining is mainly upset and angry that they were not smart enough to catch a scam being thrown right in their face! Listen for someone to tell you the truth. Listen for the timeshare agent who says to you "I can not promise you anything" or "Though I feel good about your timeshare property, we will have to stay in touch until we find a qualified buyer for your timeshare". Listen for them to say things that you dont really want to hear. Noone wants to hear the ugly truths in life, but someone willing to tell them to you is less likely to be trying to take advantage of you. Do not punish them for telling you that your timeshare will sell for about 60% of what you paid for it. This is not their fault. If you simply choose to become angry with them for telling you the truth and you instead go with the guy who has promised you results at higher prices if you just pay him first, then you deserve to feel scammed by yourself.
Try these companies for a few options to research. I feel good about suggesting them to you and feel confident that if you behave logically and listen to what they have to say, you will be satisfied and not feel scammed.
http://www.redweek.com/ - This is a For Sale By Owner site with high traffic and visibility. You will pay to enroll and advertise, but there will be no commission once it sells. This site is managed by "internet gurus" who know how to get the buyers to find them... and again.. exposure is critical!
http://www.sellmytimesharenow.com/ - Another For Sale By Owner site with incredibly high traffic for exposure. These guys are a little more personal with you and will guide you through the process along with suggesting closing companies to help with your transaction once a buyer is found. If you speak with them and they feel that you should be with a broker instead based on the property you own and the sales pricing, they will refer you to a broker that will charge you commission at the time of sale.
http://www.timesharebrokerservices.com/ - run by the same guys as sellmytimesharenow.com but is a traditional brokerage who does not charge any fee upfront. However, beware! That might sound good right here, but if your property is not a high end luxury timeshare resort such as a Marriott or Hilton, the odds are that the commission will not be enough for them to pay much attention to you. It is actually likely to be more beneficial for you to sell it on your own in this event. This is what many people do not want to tell you! But I am here to tell you the truth.
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