Why would I want a timeshare?

Ask the Timeshare Crusader / April, 2010

Why Would I Want a Timeshare?

Well, it really is pretty simple. If you vacation on a regular basis it is a good idea to check out a timeshare. There are more than 6,000 timeshare resorts worldwide and when you purchase on the resale market - such as from RedWeek.com - you can save yourself thousands and thousands of dollars over the cost of renting vacation accommodations each year.

Although a timeshare should not be thought of as a financial investment (it isn't), no vacation is a financial investment, is it? You don't go on vacation to save money, do you? Of course not. However, timeshare can offer you more luxurious and larger accommodations than you would typically get at a hotel and save you money on top of that.

Most of the bad things that you hear about timeshare have to do with high-pressure sales tactics that you avoid altogether when you buy on the resale market. The other bad things that people report about timeshare arise when they purchase something that they know very little about. You should definitely do some homework before buying a timeshare or work with an independent consultant who receives no commission. And, if you purchase a timeshare expecting it to be "perfect" you will be disappointed.

Having said that, timeshare owners report an 88% satisfaction rating…and that comes from purchasing the right product for the right reasons and knowing how to make the best use of their timeshare.

Remember, there is no such thing as a "used timeshare" at least in the same way as you would think of a "used car." Timeshare is a wonderful vacation alternative for a lot of people…check it out!