Articles

Buying Guide for Timeshare Resale

by Dan Wright

Are you on a hunt for timeshares? Are you tired of listening to the lengthy presentations of timeshare companies? Here is the solution, buy a timeshare resale. Almost non-existent a decade ago, the timeshare resale industry is waking up to the call and catching up slowly and steadily. Timeshare resale takes place through classifieds, auction sites and also many reputed firms have joined this emerging market.

The primary reason to consider resale timeshare is that these properties usually cost 30%-50% less than new timeshare will cost. A lot of the cost of new timeshare is the result of advertising - indeed, sometimes more is spent on advertising than on resale! Resale, therefore, is a more economical option, but there are a few caveats to keep in mind when buying.

Do not take a timeshare seller's word for it that the property is ideally located. Instead, be certain to see the timeshare yourself, or at least try to find a friend or relative residing in the area who might be able to view the potential purchase on your behalf. A timeshare can certainly be a great life investment, as long as you are satisfied that you are buying one that suits your needs. Additional considerations in the purchase of a timeshare include whether or not it is in an area of high demand, and whether there is an adequate supply of conveniences nearby. Grocery stores, malls, and restaurants all make a property more attractive. Also investigate whether there are major attractions in the vicinity. Finally, be certain that you give yourself plenty of options for exchange later on by purchasing your timeshare in a prime season.

Also, don't ignore the floor plan. Some units are converted from motels into timeshare units and, while some may be outstanding, some may turn out to be very bad. Look for a well-designed and well-planned unit. And also see if the units are well-maintained. If it's clean and free from dust, structural damages and squeaking doors, it speaks a lot about the management. Well-maintained and well-kept units represent good management. This also adds to the value of the unit.

The depressed prices of resale of timeshares dominate the more hidden costs such as maintenance fees, property taxes, and any special tax levies that can happen this year. Be sure to clearly determine from the seller is these have been paid in full to date; else the price of owning a timeshare resale will overall be steeper and make buying it less attractive. A better choice might be to purchase a timeshare resale in a resort which has low maintenance fees. These tend to be only annual fees.

Are you buying a timeshare? Make sure you buy through a licensed broker as there has been much fraud in this industry. Do not make the mistake of getting a timeshare property for resale through an unlicensed broker because the licensed broker can lose their license if they cheat you and are more likely to deal honestly. It is also important that you open an escrow account and keep your money in it until the timeshare property becomes available.

The foremost important criterion is the price, so do your homework and research the prices of timeshare units in the area you are interested in buying. A timeshare is an investment for a better life. Keep in mind that the prices of timeshare resale units are as low as 30% to almost half the price of the new units. You can do the research on internet auction sites. If you are buying through a broker you can ask the broker to show a comparative analysis of prices.

The bigger the unit, the better the value and chances of exchanging. Most people are happy if they buy big units as it also accommodates big families and friends and also big gatherings. And don't forget to ask the seller the reason why they are selling their units. It may be due to some problems related to management or inconvenience. This information will be crucial to you as you might be able to gauge whether you can handle those issues later on or not.

Buy-Timeshare-Online.com showcases hundreds of Florida timeshare resales as well as timeshare resales around the world. If you've been thinking about buying a timeshare or just want to learn more, we've got you covered.

Published January 26th, 2008

Filed in Recreation