Original Message:
Just curious... (by Joseph B.):
I'LL answer! The reason is: because it is nearly impossible to sell a timeshare yourself. Timeshares are sold originally with high pressure, to people on vacation in a relatively exotic place, in a luxurious setting, and they are seduced with fancy sales pitches, promises, donuts, whatever. The pressure is incredible. A simple "no" does not stop the saleperson at ALL. And once it's sold, the obligations NEVER stop for the poor buyer.
I've personally tried to sell my timeshare several times (Sheraton's Vistana Resort, a nice enough place), and NO ONE has shown any interest except people who want to sell my TS for a fee, in advance. Now, I get phone calls and postcards several times a week promising me "relief" from the expense of owning a timeshare I no longer want. And I REALLY want to believe their stories of their having a "buyer" waiting for my unit, that they are experienced in sales, that they CAN sell my TS. I am often tempted to list my unit with them. But eventually I realize it is useless. I try to offer them my "valuable" timeshare for free, but they NEVER EVER accept it. If they thought it had value, they could have it, free. But they won't take it, ever. I've tried this maybe 25 times, and never had a taker. I've offered my TS FREE in several ads, papers, etc. No takers.
I am now being dunned by my TS because I've stopped paying maintenance fees, and refuse to pay for "upgrades" that they made to a unit that didn't need upgrades. I don't know how this will end up, but I refuse to ever spend another cent on this or any timeshare-associated gimmick. I told them to take it out of my estate after I die. And I'm sure they will.