we are new to timeshare ownership

What are the RISKS/BENEFITS to buying a timeshare from a resale site as opposed to going staight to the company, ie Marriott?

I would also like to know the answer to this question. Donna

tinaf24 wrote:

What are the RISKS/BENEFITS to buying a timeshare from a resale site as opposed to going staight to the company, ie Marriott?

We purchased our 1st unit from Marriott & our 2nd from a seller on Redweek. We got the exact same type of unit (2 bedroom, mountain/garden view) at the same resort for about $5000 less than the Marriott price. I believe the sellers on Redweek are motivated to sell their units so you tend to get a better price. Through Marriott you receive 'points' to reward you for your purchase...they are supposedly good for stays, airfare, etc. but so far we've hardly used them. We've had excellent dealings with Redweek, both in buying a unit and renting out ours.

I'm curious though. I have heard that if you purchase your Marriott time share from outside of Marriott, you can not trade in your timeshare for points? Do you have this problem with your 2nd timeshare? I purchased a Marriott at the Ocean Watch at the Grand Dune in Myrtle Beach and love it.

davidw406 wrote:

I'm curious though. I have heard that if you purchase your Marriott time share from outside of Marriott, you can not trade in your timeshare for points?

Yes - that is my understanding. Marriott timeshares purchased on the resale market forfeit the option of cashing in your week for Marriott Reward Points. In an expensive location like Maui, I do not think the points option is a good way to go. Between the expensive purchase price and the expensive annual maintenance fee, those Marriott Reward Points end up costing you quite a lot of money.

gblotter wrote:

davidw406 wrote:

I'm curious though. I have heard that if you purchase your Marriott time share from outside of Marriott, you can not trade in your timeshare for points?

Yes - that is my understanding. Marriott timeshares purchased on the resale market forfeit the option of cashing in your week for Marriott Reward Points. In an expensive location like Maui, I do not think the points option is a good way to go. Between the expensive purchase price and the expensive annual maintenance fee, those Marriott Reward Points end up costing you quite a lot of money.

I would definitely have to agree with you about Hawaiian locations. I just found out recently how much those locations cost. WOWWWWWWWWW I glad that everyone that goes there it seems is happy with them.

Howdy, I'm new to timeshares too. So for buying on the aftermarket, the pricing is better, but flexibility through Marriot is lost? Does that mean if I want to exchange my week, I'd have to do it at a site like redweek, or through II or other associations like this? NC

norbert16 wrote:

Howdy, I'm new to timeshares too. So for buying on the aftermarket, the pricing is better, but flexibility through Marriot is lost? Does that mean if I want to exchange my week, I'd have to do it at a site like redweek, or through II or other associations like this? NC

No, you can still exchange your week within Marriott or II, but you can not "Give" your week to Marriott and receive Marriott points to be used towards hotels.

Another Q especially for those seasoned timeshare owners and shoppers. I see quite a bit of benefit in timeshares associated with the major hotel chains (eg, Marriot, Hilton, Westin), not only for exchanges but also because the properties appear to be more deluxe, and better located. Any feedback on the Hilton vs Marriot vs Westin properties? What attracted you most to Marriot? And in hindsight, with equal availability in the various properties, how would you contrast the properties? NB

I believe if you purchase resale, maybe Marriott will not rent the unit for you?