Original Message:
Re: want to buy a Marriott timeshare: advice needed (by Kevin L.):
My advice: Buy a resale either at the Marriott Surf Club or the Marriott Ocean Club. This is absolutely your best bang for your buck. There are better buys at the Surf Club, 2-BR's starting at $4,900.00 US. You will get your money's worth in just a few trips. The Ocean Club is quieter, but starting prices are higher as there are much less units at this location. The Surf Club is better for families with children to teenagers (love the lazy river). We have been travelling to both for years and love them both. Don't be afraid to make offers! Everything is negotiable.
You can always rent your unit right here on RedWeek if you don't use it. Look at the rental prices on this site. You can easily see that you will at the least make your maintenance fees back and usually a profit. Interval International is the other option if you are looking to trade and go somewhere else. We have been using II for 14 years and you just have to know how to work it. It always helps if you are flexible on your dates and have back-up locations.
Here are several timeshare websites that have dozens upon dozens of resales for both of these locations: RedWeek obviously. MyResortNetwork.com. The Timeshare User Group (tug). Always do your research on who the seller is. Most are licensed realtors and you can check them out easily on the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Good Luck...