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Timeshare beware (by Lance C.):

tomf353 wrote:

We would really like to try a timeshare but we hear so many scams and the cost vs a hotel is not that great....I really would like to hear why people do this?

The scams that you hear about are usually against current owners. If you are an owner, you can protect yourself by recognizing the elements of a scam. The other "scam" that some people consider a scam is the sale at a sales presentation. If you want to buy something, after doing weeks (or even months) of careful research, then buy one of the many resales available rather than one from a sales presentation.

If "[you] would really like to try a timeshare", then a good option would be renting from current owners. There are many rentals available and some for less than what the owner is paying in maintenance fees. Very rarely is there a scam against people wanting to rent from an owner. The scams are usually against the owners themselves.

And as for comparing the cost of a timeshare versus renting a hotel, it all depends on your tastes, needs, and finances. While renting a hotel is usually cheaper than renting a timeshare (or paying timeshare maintenance fees), many vacationers like the space and facilities of a timeshare such as full bathrooms, bedrooms, and kitchens as well as the facilities at the resort. Some don't mind paying the extra for such facilities, some prefer to have a basic motel/hotel and save a few bucks per night. Again, it's all personal tastes, needs, and circumstances.