How can I rent a timeshare?

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Original Message:

Re: How can I rent a timeshare? (by Mike N.):

ken1193 wrote:
donnab298 states /asks, quoted in pertinent part:

>>This is my first time to rent from an owner; what kind of document will I get to feel comfortable that I have a confirmed room? <<

If you are renting from an (alleged) owner, you should first personally confirm for yourself, directly with the resort by a phone call, that the person from whom you are renting DOES INDEED own the week in question. If it's a week obtained through an exchange company (not an owned week), that person cannot actually "rent" such an exchange to you at any price above the exchange fee and guest certificate (which, combined, is an amount well under $200).

Once ownership is confirmed, you should then execute a rental agreement, which spells out depost terms, refund terms, security deposit terms. The owner is responsible for your damages, so it is entirely reasonable and appropriate for the owner to request a refundable security deposit from you. There are lots of rental agreements around, all free, on any and every timeshare site on the Internet (TUG, RedWeek, TS4MS). MyResortNetwork also has one, but they charge a small fee to download it.

The owner should put the reservation in your name and the owner should confirm that fact in writing to both the resort and to you. You should, upon receipt of that written notification, again contact the resort directly yourself at some point BEFORE you travel to ensure that all is in order, with no potential for surprises upon arrival.

Re: >> How much does First American Title typically cost as a vacation rental escrow service? <<

I believe that it's $50 from each party (owner and renter).

============= For RCI and II, exchange fees and guest certificates will start $189 (7 nights RCI Points) and escalate to over $250 (international). I have one II bonus week that is priced based on the unit size. A 2 BR plus is $299 (plus $39 guest fee)

You can use First American Title, if rentals are made at least 60 days in advance. This brings me to a different point. I have II bonus weeks which I am more than willing to let someone use for the cost of the exchange and guest fees. However, these usually need to be booked no later than 45 days prior to travel. Any suggestions as to how to make a safe transaction is a short time period?