Original Message:
Looking for an opinion on what type of timeshare to purchase (by Phil L.):
lawrenced43 wrote:We are potential first time buyers that have read the good, bad and the ugly of timeshare companies from developers to exchange companies and weeks versus points. We are looking for honest opinions on what type of timeshare, points versus weeks to purchase. Vacation clubs and trading companies to what area's to look at for trading power to help us. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
As you should understand this is the worse time for timeshares! I own two units and have deeds for both and would never want points.
I really don't understand the points because of never having any interest in them.What I can tell you is we own two different units at our resort that has 302 units in seven buildings and we bought in the buildings we want to stay in. With points you get to use all the buildings depending on what is available at the time. Last year our resort started a points system and contacted owners as they stayed there to see if any would want to change over to points.From what I have heard not to many made the change. The few that did had to pay few thousand dollars and their maintenance fee's are almost double the deeded owners.
This is only my opinion but I have always recommended buy a timeshare where you and your family want to go every year and think of exchanging as a second option only. This way your family will always be happy with your timeshare. Trying to buy a timeshare where you have the best trade causes you many years to be trading with really no home resort.
Remember places like Hawaii are one of the best area's but at this time Hawaii in a world of hurt because of this down turn. You can find last minutes to Hawaii that few years ago cost you a bundle of money just to rent or buy.
You are always better off spending a little more if needed to get in a good resort but one your family will use every year if needed and be happy.
PHILL12