Timeshare ownership, vacation ownership and vacation club ownership has proven to be a great way to spend quality time with family and friends.  Lately though, the timeshare news seems to be focusing on scams that target people that want to buy a timeshare or sell their timeshare.

As the owner of Advantage Vacation, I’d like to address the subject of timeshare scams affecting both the buyers of a timeshare interval and the sellers of a timeshare interest.  But first, I’d like you to know why I am qualified to discuss this important issue which is currently affecting the reputation of the timeshare industry.

A leader in the timeshare resale secondary market, Advantage Vacation has been in the timeshare industry for over 30 years. We are an Accredited Member of the BBB since 2001 (California from 2001 – 2003 and Hawaii 2003 to present) and have an A+ rating.

We are a Charter Member of the Licensed Timeshare Resale Brokers Association (LTRBA), which is an advocate for timeshare consumer protection.

While trust is possibly the most important aspect of any monetary transaction, it is especially important when a consumer is involved in the process of purchasing or selling a timeshare interval.  As a member of Timeshare Users Group (TUG), an online community forum for timeshare owners, Advantage Vacation is proud to have achieved an A rating on TUGBBB, which is voted on by TUG members.  We view this rating as a sign of trust regarding our reputation as a timeshare resale business.

We are also a member of the American Resort Development Association (ARDA) a trade association which represents the vacation ownership and resort development industries (timeshares) and promotes the growth and development of the timeshare industry.  ARDA monitors regulatory issues affecting the timeshare industry, offers industry professionals educational and networking opportunities each year through the ARDA Annual Convention and keeps its members updated with the latest industry news.  In addition, ARDA keeps its members informed of industry trends and offers professional and educational development through publications covering the industry’s ethical, legal, regulatory, and operational intricacies. With this membership, Advantage Vacation is assured of staying up to date on all issues concerning the timeshare industry.  Many states are currently involved in passing legislation to protect the timeshare consumer, which we strongly support.

Many timeshare owners and soon to be buyers, are hesitant to do business on the resale market because they are unsure they are dealing with a reputable business.  I understand why buyers and sellers are hesitant and know the current publicity about timeshare scams is negatively affecting a very legitimate, money saving way for people to enjoy years of vacationing with their families.

I have written numerous articles addressing what to look for, and what to avoid, with regard to buying a timeshare resale or selling your timeshare.  Here’s a quick reminder:

  1. Start with trust – visit bbb.org to check out the BBB Business Review for any company you are considering doing business with
  2. Beware of upfront fees – any related costs to the purchase of a timeshare will be handled at the closing
  3. Read the fine print of any contract – whether buying or selling
  4. Never wire cash to anyone – for any reason
  5. Get all the information regarding the buying or selling of a timeshare in writing
  6. Check the license of the business you are in contact with for the purchasing of, or selling of a timeshare interval
  7. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it is!

Advantage Vacation specializes in timeshare resales of the name brands of Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott and Westin Starwood timeshare resorts.  Our licensed timeshare resale professionals can assist you in the selling of your timeshare (with no upfront fees – ever) or purchasing a timeshare interval, vacation club or a points based vacation club plan.

Advantage Vacation is a member of the American Resort Development Association (ARDA) and offers the best buys on the timeshare re sales market today. We never charge an upfront fee for clients who want to sell a timeshare and only receive a commission, paid from escrow, when the transaction is closed.

We are leaders in the timeshare resale secondary market, have been in the timeshare industry for over 30 years and are Accredited Members of the BBB with an A+ Rating.

Advantage Vacation is using Twitter and Facebook to help educate people on the changes in the timeshare industry along with current timeshare tips, up to date timeshare news and timeshare FAQ’s.

We hope you will follow us and our blog, Timeshare Blogging by Advantage Vacation for the latest news and reviews. If our site does not answer your question or questions, please email us your question and we will answer it and add it to our library. Make your voice heard – what questions do you have?

At Advantage Vacation you can be assured you are working with professionals who believe that honesty and integrity are the most important aspects of the business they are in – timeshare resales. Our business has been built on relationships and we pride ourselves on providing excellent service to our clients.

Would you like more information about Advantage Vacation?