Many of us have sat through a lengthy presentation about Timeshares in order to get free tickets to an event. However, for those of us serious about investing in their dream vacations, it does take some research to understand the process. It’s not always a scam. Most timeshare deals are legitimate real-estate offerings. However, that doesn't necessarily mean they're a good idea for everyone.
Here’s how it works: Instead of paying full price for a property and owning it yourself, you pay a share of the price. This way, you can use the property for a certain period of time every year. The rest of the year, other people who purchased shares get to use it. How long you get to stay there depends on your share. A 1/52 share will get you one week per year.
If you are okay with visiting the same place at the same time each year, then a standard, static timeshare is great. You'll have the same property waiting for you each year, with no worries about finding a place to stay.
However, if you'd rather visit different places each year, or you're not always sure you can vacation at the same time every year, then this arrangement might not work out. Flex plans and points systems can provide some options.
Under a flex system, the purchaser buys a share in a particular season at the resort. This season is a window of one or more months during which the share owner can schedule his or her vacation each year. Weeks are assigned on a first come, first served basis, so you need to book your week far ahead of time to get the week you want, especially during peak season.
A points system is more flexible. Each share owner has a certain number of points that can be used for different types of accommodations at different times of the year. If you want a large suite at peak tourist season, it might cost 500 points, while a small hotel room during the slow season might only cost 200 points. This allows owners to alter their vacation plans from year to year. For even more freedom, consider timeshare swapping.
A timeshare is something to think about if you enjoy traveling.
Connie Werner Reichert is the President of Write Side Up Freelance Writing. The former Newscaster and Radio Personality has a new website to share with you. Please visit www.conniewreichert.com or email Connieis.pacbell.net. She was recently inducted into the International Travel Writers & Photographers Alliance “Wall of Fame.” Also, follow Connie on Facebook, Twitter, Linked In and Chickipedia.
