Are you considering the timeshare resale market? You’re not the only one. This segment of the vacation ownership industry is bustling with activity, as owners look to sell their timeshares and buyers seek to purchase a property at a preferred resort for a lower price. Whether you are buying, selling, or simply exploring your options, this guide will cover everything you need to know.
What Is the Timeshare Resale Market?
When an owner decides to sell their timeshare, they do so through the resale or secondary market. That just means they’re selling their ownership to another person, not back to the resort itself. Buying on the resale market means you’re picking up an already-owned timeshare, instead of buying something brand new from the developer.
You can find a variety of ownership types on the resale market, including fixed and floating weeks, as well as points-based memberships from top developers like Disney, Marriott, Hilton, and Wyndham. And guess what? According to ARDA, timeshare occupancy hit 80% in 2024, topping hotel rates. Clearly, people still love timeshares! What changes is just how owners want to use them.
For Sellers: Understanding Your Options
Life changes, plain and simple. Maybe your family grew, or your travel style shifted, or those maintenance fees just seem a little too high right now. Here are some of the most common reasons people decide to let go of their timeshare:
- Changing travel habits: Your dream resort may not fit your current vacation style.
- Financial circumstances: Sometimes, those annual fees get tough to manage.
- Health or mobility issues: Traveling can become harder as the years go by.
- Just not using it: Sometimes, you realize you’re not making enough trips to make it worth it.
No matter your reason, it’s totally valid. The important thing is knowing where to begin.
Start by reaching out to your resort developer directly. Lots of the big brands have programs to help owners who want out. What they offer can differ, but it’s always smart to check with your owner services team before looking elsewhere. They might have an easy solution.
If the resort’s program doesn’t fit your needs, you still have the timeshare resale market as another solid option.
How to Spot and Avoid Timeshare Resale Market Exit Scams
Unfortunately, not everyone out there has good intentions. Timeshare exit scams are out there, and it pays to know what to watch for. Here are a few big red flags:
- Upfront fees and big promises: Real, trustworthy resale brokers don’t charge big fees up front. Be careful with anyone asking for thousands before seeing results.
- Guaranteed sale claims: Nobody can promise your timeshare will sell, much less guarantee you a certain price. Watch out for anyone who says otherwise.
- High-pressure tactics: If someone’s pushing you to move fast because there’s “a buyer waiting” or “the deal will disappear,” slow down.
- Unverified company credentials: Always make sure the company’s actually licensed and has a good standing with the Better Business Bureau.
The Coalition for Responsible Exit has additional resources to help you avoid scams. We recommend reviewing their advice before working with any third-party company.
For Buyers: Why the Resale Market Makes Sense
Buying a timeshare on the resale market is a smart move if you have a favorite brand or resort you love. Resale prices are usually lower than buying direct. You can often get the same ownership, with the same usage rights, for a better price.
To be fair, there’s a reason why developer pricing is higher. They put a lot into creating great resorts and running an on-site team. But when you buy from another owner, they’re usually motivated by wanting a transfer, not a profit.
Remember: timeshares aren’t investments, they’re vacation products. If you love the place and plan to use it, the resale market is a good bet.
What Is Right of First Refusal?
You’ll probably come across “Right of First Refusal” or ROFR when browsing resale listings. Here’s what you should know:
Right of First Refusal means the resort developer gets a chance to buy back a timeshare at whatever price you offer, before the sale goes through. So if you make an offer, but the developer wants it, they can buy it themselves, instead of letting you.
What does this mean for you?
- If you’re a buyer: The sale could fall through if the developer steps in. This happens more with popular resorts or low prices. You’ll need to find another timeshare on the resale market in this case.
- If you’re a seller: You might wait another month or so while the developer makes a decision.
- For both: ROFR is a normal step and nothing to stress about. A good broker will help you through it.
Each brand does things a little differently, and not every sale gets flagged. Having an experienced, licensed broker in your corner makes all the difference.
The Advantages of Working with a Licensed Timeshare Brokerage
Just like with a regular house or condo sale, having a licensed real estate broker can make selling or buying on the timeshare resale market way easier. Here’s what they do for you:
- Help with pricing: They know the market and can guide you on what’s fair, whether you’re buying or selling.
- Marketing your listing: Good brokers put your timeshare where real buyers will see it.
- Handle the contracts: Timeshare sales have legal stuff, too. A broker makes sure it’s all done right.
- Manage the closing: They work with trusted title companies to make sure everything wraps up smoothly.
Furthermore, licensed agents have to play by the rules. You’re dealing with people who are held to professional, ethical standards.
How Timeshare Broker Associates Works
Timeshare Broker Associates is a full-service, licensed resale brokerage. There are no upfront fees to list your timeshare on the resale market. They get paid by commission after your sale is done. No risk in getting started.
If you’re buying, keep in mind that closing costs and transfer fees are usually the buyer’s responsibility (sometimes a seller covers them as an incentive, though).
Once you list, Timeshare Broker Associates markets your timeshare, finds buyers, prepares contracts, and handles closing with a reputable title company. How long it takes depends on a bunch of factors, such as brand, price, resort, and market conditions. No matter what, though, a licensed broker puts you in the best possible shape.
For buyers, there’s a big selection, from Orlando to Honolulu and all the major brands (Disney, Wyndham, Marriott, Hilton). If you want to learn more about what it’s like to own a timeshare or shop brands and resorts, check out the Timeshare Broker Associates blog.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Timeshare Resale Market
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Sellers: List Your Timeshare with Confidence
Ready to see what your timeshare is worth on the resale market, or just want to explore your options? Timeshare Broker Associates makes it super easy. Fill out the form below, and a licensed agent will contact you. There’s no pressure, no upfront fees, and no obligation. Just straight answers from folks who know their stuff.
Buyers: Find Your Perfect Ownership on the Timeshare Resale Market
Thinking about buying on the resale market? This is a great time to look! Timeshare Broker Associates has loads of listings at great prices. Browse what’s available and find a timeshare that fits your vacation style.
Ready To Sell Your Timeshare?
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