How to Become a Timeshare Member

Becoming a member of a timeshare organization can provide you with travel benefits and a guaranteed vacation every year. If you are interested in becoming a member in a timeshare, you need to do your homework and choose a unit that you will be happy with many years into the future. You can buy timeshares directly from the developer or you could buy them in the resale market from a previous timeshare owner, depending on what you are looking for.

Instructions

1. Find an area that you enjoy visiting and that you would not mind visiting every year for many years. Timeshares are developed in many areas around the world and are usually situated close to popular travel destinations. When you become a member of a timeshare, you will get a vacation to this destination every year if you choose to use it. This is why you need to spend some extra time researching the locations and find a timeshare resort that you are comfortable with.

2. Book a tour with a timeshare resort in the area that you are interested in. Most timeshare sellers provide incentives to individuals who tour their resorts. You might be able to get a free trip to the destination if you are willing to take a tour.

3. Take the tour with the timeshare developer and view the accommodations. You will typically be matched up with a timeshare sales representative who will take the time to show you the entire property. They might show you videos, pictures and an actual unit at the resort.

4. Negotiate with the sales representative to purchase a timeshare membership. Timeshare sellers typically have different levels of ownership that you can acquire. You could purchase a single fixed week or two fixed weeks out of the year. This gives you a specific week out of each year that you will travel. You could also choose a floating week, which gives you the option to choose from several available weeks throughout the year.

5. Purchase the timeshare package that you are comfortable with. The timeshare seller may offer financing or you could pay for the timeshare purchase with your own funds. If you use the timeshare financing, you may want to refinance when you get back home so that you can avoid the high interest rates that typically come with these loans.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid taking the initial offer by the timeshare sales representative. If you hold out long enough, they can usually come down on the price significantly.

• Consider buying a timeshare membership from an existing owner. Instead of buying directly from the developer, you can often net significant savings by buying second-hand.

References

• Timeshare Only: How to Buy a Timeshare in 5 Easy Steps
• TUG: Buying Smart In The Timeshare Resale Market