How to Find a Time Share
From your Home Buying/Selling Guide

This guide will help you find a Time-Share. Use these tips to fine-tune the location and determine the type of Time-Share ownership that's best for you.

Time Required: Varies

1. If you enjoy going to the same location every year, find a fixed-unit Time-Share, which gives you ownership of a specific condo or other property. The deed will state if you must visit the same time each year or if reservations are flexible.
2. If you like to travel to varied destinations consider a Vacation Club, a Time-Share that lets you choose from multiple locations.
3. Make a list of several destinations that interest you. Search the Internet for Time-Share resorts in those locations or find a Time-Share reseller who can provide information.
4. Join an Time-Share User's Group and pay close attention to owner reviews. Keep notes to help you remember good and bad Time-Share reviews.
5. If a specific Time-Share developer keeps popping up in good reviews, or in other positive ways, do research to learn more about their resorts.
6. Visit a resort and talk with salespeople. Be sure to ask about yearly maintenance fees. Ask for a copy of a blank offer to purchase and any disclosures required by law. Read all documents thoroughly.
7. Avoid signing a contract the same day a Time-Share is offered to you. Take some time to think about it.
8. If you've brought a laptop along, log on to the Internet and compare prices for resales you find in that resort. If you couldn't bring a computer, ask if the local library offers access time.
9. Check Internet Time-Share brokers to see if they have any resale units at the resort. Time-Share resales are usually much less expensive than new purchases.
   

Tips:

1. Time-Shares can be purchased from the original developer of a resort project or from owners who discover they no longer wish to use the property. Compare purchase prices for both groups before committing to a contract.
2. Developers usually must offer a 'cooling off' period, which allows you a specific time to back out of a deal with no penalty. That type of law typically does not apply to resale purchases from an individual.

Related Information:

• Time-Share Freebies - Free Vacation Offers
• What Is a Time-Share?
• Selling a Time-Share
  

More How To's from your Guide to Home Buying/Selling