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The Most Expensive Restaurants in America

2012-01-25T09:34:00.000-08:00

Bundle has compiled a list of the most expensive restaurants in America, and the catalogue contains some surprises. Most are predictably found in New York City or spread across California. But half of the top ten are in Chicago. Five of the top ten is French and the other five are American Noveau. And the most expensive plate comes from a city most people have never heard of: Yountville, CA.

Of course the food is highly rated as these restaurants are world-renowned for their cuisines. But part of the reason why their plates are so high are their prix fixe rates. The concept of Prix Fixe comes from dining as a guest in someone’s home. They decided what food you would eat before you got there, and you pay a fixed price for it. Wine, appetizer, meal and desert are all pre-chosen and cannot be changed. The opposite would be a la carte, where you pick and choose all of your items. This is the most common dining experience.

The French Laundry of Yountville and Per Se of New York City, the lists’ top two, are backed by the same chef, Thomas Keller. The average check at French Laundry was $957 and the average check at Per Se was $883. Le Bernadin of New York City had the highest prix fixe price of $330. Eleven Madison Park, also of NYC, rounded out the top 25 with a $409 check average.

Transfer Smart gets you out of your timeshare with a 100% In-Writing Guarantee. The scam artists can't offer you that. If you're stuck in a timeshare contract that's costing you a fortune, contact us and we will get you out of that title the Transfer Smart way.

Timeshares in Cuba

2011-12-29T10:09:00.000-08:00

Cuba, the fickle southern neighbor of the United States has been as affected by the global downturn in the economy as the rest of the world. But Cuba has seen more than it’s fairshare of change recently. Fidel Castro stepped aside, and his more democratically-leaning brother Raul took over in 2006. Since 1998, the tiny island has been hit by 16 hurricanes. The United States trade embargo, in place since the 1960’s, has always choked the island’s economy. The price of food is on an irreversible upwards trend. And drought throughout the island has cost the island to lose half of its annual gross domestic product.

Faced with these dangers, Cuba is “updating” its Socialist model, and encouraging private business in ways that haven’t been seen on the island in decades. Foreign investors can now lease state land for 99 years, not limited to 50 as they were before. For the first time since 1959, foreign investment in agriculture has been allowed. And the government is now in discussions with foreign backers to construct 16 golf courses around the island and the sale of leases on houses and timeshares in these areas. With the right marketing, Cuba could become a world-wide tourist hub, worthy of the definition exotic: beautiful, mysterious and alluring.

The Cuban government will cede a quarter of its almost 5 million state workers to the cause of private entrepreneurship. They will encourage the move by not making it illegal to have a private business, and by removing the cap on how much a worker can make in one year. Despite the historically contentious feelings the Cuban state has towards the U.S., all economists agree that Cuba would welcome American tourists and their dollars with open arms. If President Obama wins a second term and laxes travel restrictions that have hindered U.S. visitation of Cuba in the past, it could eventually lead to an end of the U.S. embargo, and socialism as Cubans know it.

If you have found yourself in a Timeshare contract that you don’t use anymore, we can help. Transfer Smart offers 100% In-Writing Guaranteed exit solutions to your timeshare contract. Transfer Smart is not a resale or listing service, and will not ask for money up front. Transfer Smart simply offers information to travelers who wish to get out of their timeshare contracts.

Loving Christmas, Hating Timeshares!

2011-12-21T10:35:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas! The holiday season is so wonderful! The snow falling on the ground, making everything bright, white and beautiful. The Christmas songs on the radio we all know the words to and sing out loud in the streets. And of course…

But one terrible thing about the holidays is financial ruin. So many people find themselves over-spending in order to make their families happy. They do it so their friends, family and associates can be happy, but then they spend months of the New Year trying to catch up. In some cases, the debt takes years to pay off.

That brings me to point. Few things are as wasteful of money as timeshares, interval-leisure resorts, and the like. Good, hard-working people like ourselves have a beautiful, relaxing vacation in an exotic resort and get caught up in the emotional whirlwind and make a timeshare purpose only to regret it later. There are rising maintenance fees. Uncontrollable, unlimited “Special Assessment” fees. And the promise of an “investment” that in reality will never show a positive financial return.

This is why I blog about TransferSmart. I want people to have real peace of mind, not spend hundreds of thousands over a lifetime because they made an emotional decision to buy a timeshare. TransferSmart offers and IN WRITING guarantee that they will get you out of your timeshare contract. Yes, in writing. Click here and fill out a short form and they will contact you within 24 hours. Let TransferSmart bring real peace to you and your family.

2011-11-23T09:35:00.000-08:00

Giving thanks is one of the things I was taught to do since I was a child. Every year when Thanksgiving came around we would have to think about the things we were thankful for and each year we were given an opportunity to voice everything we were grateful for. Since Thanksgiving is next week I have started to think about the things that I am most thankful for. First of all, I am thankful for my new job. Since the economy is so bad these days finding a job is extremely hard and it takes a lot of patience. Second of all, I am thankful for my family and the support they have given me throughout the year. Lastly, the most recent thing I am thankful for is Transfer Smart. At the beginning of this year I was tied to a timeshare that my ex-husband and I had purchased years ago. The timeshare was really expensive and keeping up with the maintenance fees every year started to pull me down financially. Finally a family friend of mine told me about looking into the services of Transfer Smart.

When I called Transfer Smart the representative was very friendly and set me up with a presentation right away. At the presentation I learned about my options and why I should get out of my timeshare . The representative explained further of what was expected of me and what to expect if I signed up for the service. I agreed right away and several months later I was timeshare free. I had finally gotten rid of my annoying timeshare and can now enjoy my vacations without feeling guilty. Now at my family dinner I will be able to tell everyone how grateful I am about everything that I have been through this year.

Having Trouble Trying To Sell Your Timeshare?

2011-01-05T09:21:00.000-08:00

You may have read or heard about the timeshare industry being described as a "timeshare trap". In many cases this description is true, for many timeshare owners they were in many ways misled into purchasing their timeshare. Once they learn about all the associated responsibilities and obligations they feel as though they were tricked into purchasing this. And once more, when they try to get out and realize how difficult it is to get rid of a timeshare they feel as though they were not just tricked but trapped into their unwanted timeshare ownership.

Now while this is all too common for timeshare owners it is important to remember that timeshares do provide amazing vacations. For some people who have no problem with the financial obligations tied to timeshare ownership it can be the perfect vacation option. For these people a timeshare is exactly what they need to provide them with unforgettable vacations. So in reality the timeshare vacation option is quite viable and serves a purpose.

But still for the timeshare owners who are not prepared for the cost of ownership it simply does not have the same effect. These owners constantly have to worry about increased maintenance fees and unexpected special assessments. And what is worse is that they probably had no clue that buying a timeshare could cause so much stress.

If you are already stuck in a timeshare contract and you now know what a huge expense it is and has the potential to become you should start figuring out how you will get out. Unfortunately there are not too many ways to viably get out of your timeshare. You may be under the assumption that you easily sell your timeshare, sadly nothing could be further from the truth. Selling a timeshare can be extremely difficult.

The fact is that there is simply no resale market for timeshares. A lot of owners try to go this route of selling their timeshare on the resale market and this usually ends in a huge waste of time and money. And so after falling victim to purchasing a timeshare without knowing just how much it can end up costing they are now in the trap of trying to resell. There are many fraudulent and scam companies that are trying to take advantage of people who are trying to sell their timeshare unit.

What these owners need to focus on is getting out of the financial perpetuity that timeshare ownership entails. These vacationers need to realize that they will be paying their timeshare resort for the rest of their life. Instead of spending time and money trying to sell their timeshares they should look for exit solutions. Some timeshare relief companies offer guaranteed timeshare exit solutions that timeshare owners can use to get out of their timeshare once and for all.

Got Timeshares for Sale?

2010-12-16T15:20:00.000-08:00

Many timeshare owners today are looking for a way out of timeshares. Please continue on reading this article if you either interested in getting out of a timeshare contract or if you are considering putting your timeshares for sale in the very near future. This article seeks to inform you about what to do when you have a timeshare with a for sale sign up in front of it.

As you are probably aware, timeshares for sale are rather common on the market right now due to rising timeshare maintenance fees and special assessment fees. When you buy a timeshare and sign that contract, you are also unfortunately tying yourself down to a lifetime of debt. This is because a timeshare contract is virtually unbreakable by nature and the only way to get rid of a timeshare deed is by transferring it over to someone else and putting your timeshares up for sale seems like the best way to go about it.

Unfortunately, timeshares for sale are simply not selling. This is because with the internet becoming more and more predominant, everyone has the resources to study up on their purchases by checking out any number of complaint boards. When you do so, you will find that timeshares for sale are one of the highest ranking complaints anywhere on the internet. In fact, the Better Business Bureau has gone on record to say that the timeshare resale industry is one of the largest scams across America today. With so few buyers, it is no wonder people are having such a hard time getting rid of their timeshares for sale.

In addition to the lack of interest and scam warnings, many people are not interested in timeshares for sale because of those pesky maintenance fees and special assessments. Maintenance fees are the charges you accrue annually from the timeshare resort to cover your share of the cost of cleaning and replacing any of the appliances in use while special assessments are charged to you for any reason at all be it to cover for weather damage or to replace all the TVs on the resort. It is for all these reasons and more that people are so desperate to get out of their timeshare and put them up for sale.

So how do you get out of a timeshare if you have timeshares up for sale? First thing's first, do not go through a timeshare resale company. Just in the state of Florida alone right now there are 50 timeshare resale companies under investigation and 11 have already been convicted of false and deceptive practices. If you have a timeshare for sale sign up, do yourself a huge favor and take it back down because that will only lead you down a road to further debt. If you absolutely must get out of your timeshare due to the always increasing costs, consider going with a reputable company with a proven track record of successfully getting people out of their timeshare contracts like Timeshare Relief.

Transfer Smart News: Reynoldsburg Couple Can’t Get Rid of Campground Timeshare

2010-09-22T17:43:00.000-07:00

Timeshares are known for their hefty fees. Such fees are the main reason why many owners today want to get out of their timeshares. In Reynoldsburg, Ohio, one family said that they've paid out $20,000 over the past 25 years for a campground timeshare membership. Suddenly, they stopped paying two years ago and creditors started to call.

Last 1985, Jack and Mildred Kidwell, in their late 40s, bought a timeshare for camp sites around the country. Since then, they are paying thousands of dollars in finance charges and dues.

According to Kidwell, they tried to sell or cancel it but the company refused. At 72 years old and with severe arthritis, Kidwell said they had to sell the camper. But Equity Lifestyle Properties which is the parent company of Thousand Trails Campgrounds is trying to keep him paying.

He said, he just wanted them off his back and to quit trying to bill him for more money. Meanwhile, Joan Coughlin, Spokesperson for the Central Ohio Better Business Bureau, in this particular contract there is no right of rescission, that's an important element to look for in any contract. Right of Rescission is a language that allows the buyer with notice to terminate a contract.

On the other hand, the said company has an F rating with the Better Business Bureau. In 2001, as Kidwell said, his annual dues rose from $272 to $500 and in the last two years. He and Mildred decided to stop paying for their vacation and the creditors are calling.

Transfer Smart News: Eurostar Acts as a Viable Alternative to Visit Europe’s Timeshare Resorts

2010-09-21T18:28:00.000-07:00

With the many owners today who are trying to get out of their timeshares along with the negative perception of the consumers with such properties, timeshare operators are on their extensive advertising campaign to attract the consumers. Recently, Eurostar’s latest TV ad campaign created around the concept “exploring is beautiful,” captures the romance of train travel in an unexpected way.

The ad is like a short dreamy film which has an almost modern, magical Alice in Wonderland quality to it with a little girl strolls through her city park zoo, talking to the animals and trying to get them to talk back to her, until it fades to the tagline “Eurostar: Exploring Is Beautiful – Connecting You To Provence, Cologne and more...”

This is the Eurostar’s first TV commercial in three years. Despite the much publicized trouble with some trains last December, the company has seen a steady rise in passengers this year. Many consumers are opting for train travel to “short-haul” destinations as a safeguard against volcanic ash cancellations, airline or air traffic controller strikes, all of which have been wildcards that disrupted holidays this year.

With so many luxury brand hotels and self-catering city apartments today like Hilton, Wyndham and the Four Seasons now available as part of the timeshare holiday experience, getting away to explore one of Europe’s beautiful cities has never been easier. With a growing number of timeshare and vacation resorts in regions like French Alps and the south of France, Eurostar’s European network is becoming a viable alternative to air travel, assuming you have some time to spare.

Transfer Smart News: Kirkland Man Gets a Timeshare Refund

2010-09-20T17:48:00.000-07:00

Timeshares are considered one of the vacation properties today which are closely associated with aggressive sales tactics and scams. Take the case of a Kirkland man who recently bought a timeshare and ended up regretting it.

Justin Bartlett of Kirkland won a free trip with a call from the people who run Wyndham Resorts. This led to a meeting and sales pitch. What attracted him was the chance to stay in Washington state properties at a moment's notice.

Justin then paid $1500 down and promised to pay $200 a month. But for months, he couldn't get any last minute reservations. As he said, he had tried multiple times in local areas Leavenworth, Lake Chelan and Seattle to get rooms but he can't get a room.

So, Justin find the salesman hoping that he was still working for the company and to ask him why this wasn't true. Justin found the salesman working out of Bend, Oregon because his Bothell office went out of business. The salesman is Joe Kennedy, in Bend. The salesman said, if Justin wants, he can sign a letter saying he lied to him. So Justin had his attorney draft up an affidavit and the salesman signed it.

The signed, notarized piece of paper has Joe saying "I was told to convey statements to Justin Bartlett that were untrue just to get him to purchase the travel share program." Justin mailed the affidavit to the company hoping for a refund. At first, the company will not hold any responsibility for what the sales rep had done. But a few days later, Wyndham gave him a call and said that they are going to give him all of his money back and they are letting him get out of the timeshare contract.

Smart Ways to Save Through Vacation Rentals

2010-09-18T23:15:00.000-07:00

If you are one of those who love to travel, may be you are considering owning a timeshare. With the current economy, many owners are trying to get out of their timeshares and thus, the units on the resale market are also flooding. Such properties might be tempting. But today, there are also those properties in sought after locations that are available for reasonable rent. If you are on a tight budget or looking for ways to save in a vacation, vacation rentals might be a great option.

Vacation rentals offer you flexibility in both location and time compared to actually owning a timeshare unit. Purchasing a timeshare limits your annual vacation to one locale and your vacation to a certain time of year. A timeshare also entails an annual maintenance fee. In other words, vacationing with a timeshare will be the same every year despite being luxurious and packed with many amenities.

With vacation rentals, you can choose any location and the specific period for your vacation. One of the popular options these days is the condo rental membership. With this, you can vacation with a number of benefits like discounts. Some condo rentals are packaged with various benefits including dining and entertainment discounts. There are also packages that include tickets to the theater or maybe scuba diving lessons.

A condo rental is no doubt one of the best offers available for a great vacation. With this option, you can avail for a relaxing vacation with many benefits and enable to save more. This also allows you to vacation even when you are on a tight budget.

Transfer Smart News: Timeshare Investigation Results to a 55-Year-Old Man Arrest

2010-09-16T23:23:00.000-07:00

Recently, a 55-year-old man from Banbury has been arrested as a result of an investigation of a timeshare scam originating in Spain. The investigation was launched by Thames Valley Police in July. The complainant testified that he had been targeted by a scam in which people wanting to get out of their timeshares are contacted by a marketing company and told that there are buyers lined up.

However, to go on with the sale, there’s a £1,000 administration fee to the company called Golden Sands Marketing, which gave its correspondence address as Horse Fair, Banbury. Meanwhile, the police visited the address and closed down a mailbox, where letters were being held before being sent onto Spain.

There are more than 100 letters which have been found out so far and officers are informing the senders about the ongoing inquiry. According to the Thames Valley Police, its officers have been liaising closely with Oxfordshire County Council’s tading sandards department, as well as the Spanish authorities, throughout the investigation.

As a result of the investigation, a 55-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to defraud. The man will be released on bail until January 2011 for further enquiries to take place.

On the other hand, PC Suzanne Cubitt of Banbury police station said,they believe people across the country who want to get rid of their timeshares have fallen victim to this scam and are keen to get the message out that timeshare owners are being targeted in this way. She added that they are urging people to be vigilant and think carefully before making payments over the phone as a result of unsolicited calls.

Transfer Smart News: State Proposes to Impose Accommodation Taxes on Timeshares

2010-09-15T23:56:00.000-07:00

While many owners today want to get out of their timeshares because of the increasing maintenance fees, there’s a proposal in South Carolina to tax timeshare maintenance fees. This creates uproar in the timeshare industry. Meanwhile, the hoteliers push to impose such taxes on timeshares.

The said proposal aims to collect accommodations taxes on maintenance fees which have previously gone untaxed. According to Paul Goodrich, president of sales and marketing for SPM Resorts, which manages 33 timeshare resorts on the East Coast and in the Caribbean, including three on Hilton Head Island, the annual fees cover such things as roof replacement, management fees and property taxes. He stressed out that timeshare owners already pay accommodations taxes when they rent their property. So, they shouldn't have to pay those taxes on their maintenance fees.

On the other hand, Frans Mustert, a supporter of the proposal and also a Myrtle Beach hotelier who was also instrumental in crafting it, said that timeshare owners who only come to the state a few weeks a year are the same as tourists who rent hotel rooms and they should pay their fair share for the services and marketing.

The accommodations tax funds is drafted to go toward municipal services for tourists and out-of-state marketing for a destination. The legislature-appointed Taxation Realignment Commission estimates that the tax could generate about $10 million in the state. Most of the money would likely come from those vacation hot spots which have most of South Carolina's timeshare units like the Grand Strand or Hilton Head Island areas.

Transfer Smart News: Timeshare Company Files for Bankruptcy Due to Falling Sales

2010-09-14T21:35:00.000-07:00

For those individuals or businesses who want to start fresh by forgiving debts, filing for bankruptcy might be the solution. These debts can't be paid while offering creditors a chance to obtain some measure of repayment based on what assets are available. In the US, many companies file for bankruptcy because of the struggling economy. One of these is the Island One Inc. and five of its affiliates citing falling sales and declining property values. One of the issues face by such companies is the increasing number of owners trying to get out of their timeshares because of the difficulty paying the fees.

Island One and its affiliates have developed and managed timeshare resorts in Florida and the US Virgin Islands since 1981. Through Navigo Vacation Club, these companies have developed a timeshare network that extends throughout the US, Latin America, the Caribbean and Europe.

Meanwhile, the said company listed both its assets and debt in the range of $100 million to $500 million in Chapter 11 documents which was filed last Sept. 10 in US Bankruptcy Court in Orlando. According to the lawyers of Island One, the fall of the real estate markets in Florida and throughout the US and the general downturn in the economy have significantly impacted the resort development and hospitality industries.

The vacation industry is greatly affected by the economic decline since it broke up in the late of 1997. On the other hand, the ability to file for bankruptcy can benefit an overall economy by giving persons and businesses another chance and providing creditors with a measure of debt repayment. This is what some of the timeshare companies are doing right now.

Transfer Smart News: Survey Indicates a Flourishing Hawaii Timeshare Industry

2010-09-14T00:19:00.000-07:00

Hawaii is known for its great beaches and as a vacation destination. It is also one of the havens of several timeshare resorts in the US. Recently, there’s a survey that shows that the flourishing Hawaii timeshare industry has high occupancy rates. Meanwhile, it helps support the state’s vacation industry throughout the recession.

In 2009, timeshares throughout this state were an average 90.8%. According to a new survey conducted by the Hawaii chapter of the American Resort Development Association (ARDA) which is a trade association representing vacation ownership and resort development industries, Hawaii hotels and condominiums were an average 66.5% full in 2009. Hotels and condominiums can be considered as counterparts of timeshares.

The said survey is called the “State of Hawaii Timeshare Industry Survey.” It included responses from 84.3% of all timeshares in Hawaii and was last published in August 2008. In recent years, there are several new hotel and resort development and construction in Hawaii. These include timeshares.

On the other hand, the survey indicates that Hawaii’s timeshare inventory has increased by 12% in two years to 8,608 units spread among 87 timeshare properties. Although we usually hear many owners trying to get out of their timeshares, according to the survey this industry is flourishing despite such challenges. It even outflanks hotels and condominiums which can be considered as competitors of timeshare properties.

Transfer Smart News: Hawaii’s Timeshare Industry Shows Resiliency

2010-09-11T02:59:00.000-07:00

Although the recent years depict a number of challenges for the timeshare industry, it still showed resiliency. Some of the common challenges include the increasing number of owners trying to get out of their timeshares and the negative perception of many consumers about it. Despite these, Hawaii’s timeshare inventory will continue to grow with another 4,881 units in the pipeline. It shows that the concept of vacation ownership has remained resilient throughout the economic downturn. This is according to an industry survey conducted by the Hawaii chapter of the American Resort Development Association.

In 2009, capital expenditures in Hawaii for the timeshare industry totaled $138.7. According to the survey, it will close out at $64.3 million this year. Among the newest timeshare properties opening later this year is the Wyndham Royal Garden at Waikiki which is the latest addition to Wyndham Vacation Ownership’s Hawaii portfolio.

According to Eric Penningroth, Wyndham’s regional vice president for the Hawaii, the first phase of the Wyndham Royal Garden which will include approximately 140 time-share units and 68 condominiums, will open in mid-November with a grand opening scheduled for February.

On the other hand, the American Resort Development Association which represents vacation ownership and resort development interests stated that Hawaii’s timeshare industry posted $400 million in sales last year and grew to 8,601 timeshare units in 87 properties.

Transfer Smart News: AG Delaney Warns Consumers When Selling Their Timeshare

2010-09-10T03:59:00.000-07:00

As those owners trying to get out of their timeshares have become a favorite target of many scammers, Attorney General Michael A. Delaney warned that consumers should exercise caution when attempting to sell a timeshare through real estate brokers, agents and companies that specialize in reselling timeshares.

Meanwhile, Delaney also offered some tips to New Hampshire consumers. Even if the salesperson claims the local market is hot, or his or her office is overwhelmed with buyer requests, don't just agree to anything on the phone or online. It is safe to check out the reseller first. You may contact the Better Business Bureau or the Attorney General's office in the state where the reseller is located.

Also ask if any complaints are on file and ask for all information in writing. Find out if the reseller's agents are licensed to sell real estate where the timeshare is located. If so, verify it with the state’s real estate commission. Moreover, deal only with licensed real estate brokers and agents, and ask for references from satisfied clients. Ask how the reseller will advertise and promote your vacation property. It's better if the reseller takes its fee after the timeshare unit is sold.

Smart Reasons Why You Should Think Critically Regarding Timeshares

2010-09-08T11:32:00.000-07:00

In today's troubled economy, most consumers are looking for ways to reduce their expenses. For some holidaymakers, this may mean that getting out of a timeshare contract is one of those ways. At first, you may think that timeshares can be a great way to vacation. However, there are a number of things that you need to take into account before you buy a timeshare.

One major thing that you need to keep in mind when you're at the presentation is not to be swayed by any slick marketing talk or any text plan your emotions. Be aware that you will be subjected to a high-pressure sales tactics after a presentation. Take note that the people doing the presentation, will not only make money on the sale, they may also get commissions well so it's in their interest to get a hard and fast sale as quickly as possible.

Thus, do a research before you consider owning a timeshare. Find out whether or not such properties are going to be a good long-term investment. Do not be swayed by flashy graphics during a presentation. Instead, ask the salesperson about such properties whether it fits what you are looking for in a timeshare. Something else you want to consider also is if they are willing to take you and show you the property that they want to sell you. Also find out if such vacation property requires extensive repairs or a property that is in a neighborhood that is not safe.

Smart Ways to Sell a Timeshare or Vacation Club Points

2010-09-07T09:34:00.000-07:00

The increases in annual fees force many owners to get out of their timeshare contracts or vacation club membership points. Despite the image of a great location with complete amenities and services of timeshare and vacation clubs, owners still find it extremely difficult to sell such properties. In many respects, this is not always the best option for owners experiencing financial difficulties with their timeshare holiday experience.

The major drawback when selling your timeshare or vacation club points may be the number of sanctions written into the Deeds and purchase agreements which can make them extremely difficult to sell on to independent purchasers. For example, a number of vacation clubs will only allow sales to existing vacation club points owners. Meanwhile, points owners may well find that in order to progress the sale, they must pay to transfer their annual points allocation to fixed weeks in local timeshare resorts.

However, there are better ways to sell timeshares or vacation points. One of these methods would be to cultivate friendships with existing owners at local timeshare venues. Many timeshare owners and vacation points owners are convinced that this method of holidaying is better and are happy to purchase points from other members as it is cheaper than buying direct. Moreover, selling to an existing owner is a lot easier and avoids any legal problems that may be written into the timeshare deeds.

On the other hand, one way to capitalize on such vacation properties is to rent it out to third parties, friends and relatives. The property will still be in your ownership but with successful advertising, you could easily raise sufficient funds to ensure the payment of management charges.

Transfer Smart News: Prominent Timeshare Network Affiliates with New Bali Property

2010-09-06T23:29:00.000-07:00

Although there are still a number of owners trying to get out of their timeshare properties, some operators are optimistic about what lies ahead for this industry. As a matter of fact, some timeshare providers are showing signs of expansion and partnerships with other companies. One of this is the Interval International which is a prominent worldwide provider of vacation services. Recently, it has added the Peninsula Bay Resort, situated on the Indonesian island of Bali, to its resort network.

The said resort is the latest vacation ownership property developed by British entrepreneurs, Roger and Alan Thomas, and is located on the waterfront of Nusa Dua overlooking the golden sand beaches of Benoa Bay. According to Joe Hickman, Interval International’s executive director for Asia Pacific, they have had an excellent partnership with the Thomases since they affiliated Peninsula Beach Resort with Interval more than 10 years ago. He added that they look forward to working with them on the new Peninsula Bay Resort which is certain to prove as remarkable.

When completed, the purpose-built project will feature 65 one- and two-bedroom units, all with sea-facing views. It is being built using contemporary Balinese architecture and is set within lush tropical gardens to create an eco- friendly atmosphere. The new property is just a five-minute drive from Peninsula Beach Resort. It has shuttle service between the two, so that owners are free to enjoy the amenities at both.

On the other hand, Roger Thomas stated that their second resort in Bali, which is the Peninsula Bay Resort, offers unrivalled spaciousness and luxurious comfort in an idyllic tropical setting. From their years of experience, they know that only one exchange company is capable of providing the highest standard and quality service. They chose to affiliate with Interval International so that their members could enjoy the many vacation benefits and the efficient and caring service that the company unfailingly provides.

A Smart Guide to Orlando Timeshare Rentals

2010-09-05T03:16:00.000-07:00

As a number of owners are trying to get to out of their timeshares, many holidaymakers opt for rentals units for their vacation. One of the hot spots when it comes to vacation destination is the state of Florida. Staying at a resort style timeshare will add a relaxing component to a vacation in this area. Currently, there are 92 timeshare resorts located in the Orlando vicinity.

Timeshare properties can be purchased for yearly use or rented one week at a time by anyone. When purchasing timeshare it can be bought at the resort of choice or on the secondary market through sites like ebay, craigslist or through individuals. Researching timeshare programs will provide the proper decision making about the commitment of a purchase fee and yearly maintenance fees.

Meanwhile, renting a timeshare offers the chance to experience the lifestyle and accommodations before making the lifetime purchase. Timeshare rentals can be done through the websites listed above, employer websites, and individuals. It is also often an inexpensive and luxurious way to travel.

A brief look at Orlando timeshare resorts will serve as a guide to the accommodations that are in the region. Doing a bit of research also will maximize the benefits of an Orlando timeshare experience. There is Holiday Inn Orange Lake Golf and Country Club. This beautiful complex features multiple restaurants, cafes and shopping within the Orange Lake complex. Each unit comes with an equipped kitchen, washer, dryer and deck.

There is also the Sheraton’s Vistana Resort which is located near Disney World. This 135 acre expansive park like setting is surrounded by fountains and lakes. You can wander the lush tropical vacation resort where you will find 13 tennis courts, 7 swimming pools, fitness center and 18 holes of miniature golf. Moreover, there is Summer Bay Resort which is a Caribbean style resort located 6 miles outside of Disney World. Palm trees, lakes, and greenery surround the complex that boasts the option for various water activities like jet skiing, water skiing, canoeing and pontoon boating.

Transfer Smart Alert: AG Kroger Warns Oregonians about Unscrupulous Timeshare Scams

2010-09-02T15:44:00.000-07:00

As the number of owners trying to get out of their timeshares is increasing every year, fraudulent resale activities also tend to surface. Meanwhile, in Oregon, Attorney General John Kroger warns its citizens to be wary of unscrupulous offers to sell timeshare properties.

There are reports from property owners about dishonest companies with legitimate-sounding names, such as International Timeshare Consolidators (ITC). Such companies mislead consumers by offering to help to sell their vacation properties. While posing as an agent or broker, they will produce an appraisal or offer a very generous bid for the timeshare or vacation property. But before the sale is finalized, the consumer will be told that they owe taxes or administrative fees. Once the property owner has paid the fees, the broker or agent will vanish without a trace.

Unfortunately, it can be almost impossible to locate the culprit. According to the BBB, the address ITC deceitfully provided to consumers has received stacks of undeliverable mail, and countless visits from stunned customers. If you are a timeshare owner and someone contacts you to offer assistance with the sale of your property, there are some precautions to reduce the risk of falling for a scam.

As a general rule, do not give your credit card number or other personal information over the phone. Be wary of companies that charge up-front fees and consider opting for a company that offers to sell for a fee only after the timeshare is sold. Try to do also your research before transacting business with any company and compare their offers to industry competition. Moreover, ask if the company’s salespeople are licensed to sell vacation properties where your timeshare is located. You can also verify this with the State Real Estate Agency licensee search.

Smartly Knowing Your RCI Timeshare Exchange Directory

2010-09-01T22:56:00.000-07:00

The lack of flexibility is one issue that many timeshare owners have to deal with once they own such property. However, for some, they simply get out of their timeshare contracts once they decided that they want another vacation experience. But today, there are some timeshare exchange companies like RCI that address such issue. These companies facilitate the exchange of one timeshare to another and thus, owners can now have a new timeshare experience.

However, many timeshare owners look at their RCI timeshare exchange directory once a year usually just before they are ready to place an exchange request. It is recommended that you really get familiar with your RCI exchange directory long before that.

You should go through it before hand and not only star the resorts you like but also cross out the ones you do not want rather than picking it up the day you want to request your RCI timeshare exchange. This will help you in planning your RCI vacation. For example, if you want to exchange to an RCI resort on the beach. Some of the resorts listed may be blocked from the beach rather than right on it. Crossing them off now can save you the time of filtering through them when you want to exchange.

Below each RCI timeshare listing, there is a series of color coded, round symbols. That will quickly give you important information. Currently, there are currently 48 of these symbols in the RCI exchange directory that will give you an insight as to what amenities are in the unit itself, on site at the resort and nearby the resort.

On the other hand, some people look for criteria like on-site child care and organized children's activities. For others, it may be whether there is a casino or bar on site. Because of how the RCI timeshare exchange directory is formatted, you can tell all of this and more with a quick glance. Moreover, the RCI exchange directory is very nice so you may be hesitant to mark it. This will not only help you enormously in getting a better exchange but also able you to find the vacation experience that you want.

Social Media as a Smart Way to Connect with Timeshare Owners

2010-08-31T12:35:00.000-07:00

With the number of owners trying to get out of their timeshares these days, timeshare companies have found a new way to better communicate with its clients. The timeshare industry is known for its marketing savvy and now, it is adopting social media strategies. While timeshare brands and associations have different approaches for their varying customers, most are using social media outlets to strengthen the bond with their most critical mass which are the current timeshare owners.

According to Howard Nusbaum, president and CEO of the American Resort Development Association, they’re trying to educate their members that viral and word-of-mouth marketing now has a huge megaphone. He added that this is an opportunity every day to ensure you’re igniting your fans and answering your detractors, and it’s almost as if comment cards are now in the public domain.

Meanwhile, that concept of “igniting fans” has plenty of marketing clout, according to Ed Kinney, VP of corporate affairs and brand awareness for Marriott Vacation Club. He said that they found that social media really isn’t a transactional marketing channel. Thus, we should back off from that and use it for other means, like service and awareness. Kinney further said that the Marriott team was keen to not turn people off with its social media strategies, which include Twitter and Facebook.

On the other hand, defining the social media space is different for different companies. Some use established channels like Facebook, Twitter and YouTube to monitor how owners perceive their vacation properties and spread the word that way. Others, such as Interval International, have created proprietary members-only sites to corral all forms of shareable online media.

Transfer Smart News: West Sands Resort Makes its Debut in the Timeshare Market

2010-08-30T12:01:00.000-07:00

Getting out of a timeshare has been a common scenario for many holidaymakers today. But despite this along with the negative perception on such properties, there are still a number of timeshare of new timeshare resorts coming out every year. One of these is the Phuket’s West Sands resort which has partnered with Interval International to make its debut in the timeshare market.

The said property is tucked in 48 lush acres with its own 500 yards of private beachfront situated on Mai Khao Beach on Phuket’s favoured west coast. The studio, one-, and two-bedroom units range from 92 to 167 sqm. while the three-bedroom units measure 335 sqm. The residences also have been designed to have minimal impact on the environment and all features European-style kitchens and bathrooms, as well as balconies with views of the pool, gardens or the Andaman Sea. Moreover, owners and guests will have access to West Sands Water World which is one of the largest water parks in Asia with seven themed ‘worlds’.

According to Joe Hickman, Interval International’s Asia Pacific Executive Director, they are very pleased to have added West Sands Phuket Beach Club to their exchange network. He added that along with its high design standards, the eco-friendly development will contribute to preserving the environment and to more enjoyable and economic living.

Meanwhile, Barry King, Project Director of West Sands Vacation Club stated that Phuket is well established as a premier vacation destination and West Sands matches its natural beauty with all of the modern amenities essential to enjoying life to the fullest. Thus, choosing Interval as a partner matches its global experience in the field of vacation services with their local market and product knowledge. He stressed out that they are delighted that West Sands will be part of Interval’s network of quality vacation resorts.

Transfer Smart News: Mahindra Holidays to Launch Three More Resort Brands

2010-08-28T15:37:00.000-07:00

Although there are still a considerable number of owners trying to get out of their timeshares ever year, many timeshare companies these days are on their way to expansion. One of these is the Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India (MHRIL) which will launch three more resort brands to cover the entire gamut of leisure travelers across different age and income groups.

The said company is launching resorts in premium, uber-premium and budget categories. Under the uber-premium fractional ownership category, there are around 3,000-3,500 sq ft villas which will be built adjacent to Mahindra’s existing resorts. Under a timeshare perpetuity-basis, there will be around eight to 12 people who could own the villas for an upfront amount and a regular maintenance fee.

According to Ramesh Ramanathan, managing director of MHRIL, the first such gated community will come up at Coorg in Karnataka in the next financial year. He added that another premium resort brand is expected to come up this year and a budget vacation ownership brand will be launched within the next 18 months.

Under the flagship brand Club Mahindra, there are four resorts, with a total of 500 rooms which are under construction. Ramanathan further stated that these resorts are coming up in Tugi near Lonavala, Coorg, Ranthambore and Gir in Gujarat. The total investment on these projects will be Rs 250 crore which will be partly funded from the proceeds of the IPO and rest from internal accruals.

On the other hand, Club Mahindra is also planning to enter Sri Lanka and Malaysia. In Sri Lanka, it will either float a new company or enter a joint venture to set up vacation resorts. The company, which is part of Mahindra Homestays, will also tie up with more homestay operators to have a total of around 2,000 rooms within two years. At present, it collaborates with owners of 258 homes and has 738 rooms at 47 locations in 15 states.

Smartly Beware of Timeshare and Holiday Frauds

2010-08-26T10:18:00.000-07:00

Many people are falling victim to various types of holiday fraud these days. The common victims appeared to be those owners who are trying to get out of their timeshare contracts. But such fraudulent activities operate and prey on various consumers.

Timeshare fraud is considered a common type of holiday scam nowadays. Typically, the victim gets a phone call inviting to attend a free presentation to learn how to become a property millionaire from buying a timeshare. However, it ends up with a timeshare that either doesn’t exist or is far below the standards the owner will pay for.

The other scam is that the fraudsters offer to help you sell your existing timeshare. There are also double scams in which the fraudsters ask for upfront fees for legal services to help those who've already been the victims of other timeshare frauds.

Meanwhile, some holidaymakers fall victim to frauds involving non-existent holiday villas. They will take your money and it’s only once you get to your destination that you find the villa doesn’t exist. Much worst is that you’re then left in a foreign country without accommodation.

However, the authorities strongly advised to be aware of such activities. There are some simple rules to avoid such vacation frauds like be very wary of letters, phone calls or emails from companies that you don’t know offering you great deals out of the blue. Also, never make investments without thorough research. Moreover, never agree to anything on the spot. Take the documentation home and make sure a lawyer reads the contract before you sign it.

Smartly Knowing What Even the Best Timeshare Companies Are Not Telling You

2010-08-25T19:32:00.000-07:00

These days, may be you already heard all the reasons why you should not buy a timeshare company. You might also have heard about the many owners who are trying to get out of their timeshares mainly because of the extra fees to the lack of flexibility. But today, even the best timeshare companies are still looked at under scrutiny.

Meanwhile, many timeshare resorts these days are involved in a scam. This include giving false promises to the consumers, adding fees which are not agreed upon, or even selling a unit which is not yet finish constructing. However, the best timeshare companies will still charge you annual fees and maintenance fees for maintaining your property when it is not in use. Several timeshare properties are also outdated and will require several repairs throughout the years. Such maintenance will result in more money out of pocket for you.

On the other hand, timeshares are very difficult to rent for a profit and even harder to sell. Take note that most timeshares that are rented cannot even be rented for the amount you will be paying in the maintenance and annual fees. Timeshares are also very difficult to sell because of the extra costs associated with owning one of them.

Timeshares are notorious for passing along extra charges and fees to their customers. Changing your vacation date or time typically requires a fee. If you do not use your vacation time one year, it might result to losing it and might even incur a fee for not using the property. Thus, if you are still looking for ways you and your family can enjoy your yearly vacations, it is better to op for other alternatives that are budget-friendly.

Transfer Smart News: Study Claims Many Saudis Regret Purchasing Timeshares

2010-08-24T19:10:00.000-07:00

It is a well-known fact today that many owners want to get out of their timeshare contracts after using such properties after a couple of years. According to a survey, in Riyadh, the vast majority of Saudis who own timeshares regret purchasing them.

The study was conducted by the Riyadh Center for Information and Consultancy Studies. It claims that 85% of those surveyed wish they had never entered into such an agreement. It also says that nearly 78% of owners view their involvement in the industry as evil. Moreover, the survey revealed that nearly 85% of Saudis who invested in a timeshare agreement are men while 81% are married.

These days, there has been a growing demand for such properties among the younger generation. In fact, 47% of timeshare owners are aged between 30 and 40 compared to 13% for the 40 to 50 age bracket and 10.5% for over 50s. The study also revealed that over 60% of them are also university graduates.

Meanwhile, a timeshare is the name given to a piece of real estate owned by a number of individuals. These are typically holiday resort units and each sharer is allocated a period of time, usually around one week to use the property. Timeshare agreements may also be drawn up on a part-ownership or lease basis where the sharer holds no claim to the ownership of the property.

On the other hand, estate agents dealing in timeshare properties mainly target those with a high monthly income to improve their chances of receiving a higher commission. However, as the study showed, this was not the case with Saudi timeshare owners. Only eight percent of them had a monthly salary of between SR15,000 and SR20,000. About 31.5 % of owners earned between SR10,000 and SR15,000 while 18% were on less than SR5,000. This means that even people with a limited income set aside a part of their savings for their vacation expenses as the study claimed.

Transfer Smart News: McCollum Reaches Settlement against a Timeshare Resale Company

2010-08-24T01:09:00.000-07:00

One of the most common scams these days involved conning owners who are trying to get out of their timeshare contracts. Thus, there is an increasing number of complaints filed at Attorney general’s Office every year. Recently, Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum announced that he has reached a $110,000 settlement with a Palm Beach County timeshare business that allegedly engaged in unfair and deceptive trade practices.

The TS Luxury Group and its owner, Mary Filocomo, allegedly offered timeshare resale advertising services to US and Canadian consumers. According to a lawsuit brought against the company, it alleged that it enticed people into using its timeshare resale services by misrepresenting that it had procured interested or actual buyers for the consumers' timeshares.

Just like the common scams that involved resale companies, the TS Luxury Group also allegedly collected upfront fees for its services and issued contracts that were different than what was agreed to orally between consumers and company representatives.

However, a number of victims filed complaints against TS Luxury Group and AG McCollum had already reached its decision. In addition to agreeing to permanently dissolve its operations, the company must also pay any additional claims from consumers who file complaints with the attorney general's office in the next 90 days. On the other hand, Filocomo and the company cooperated fully with McCollum and have already begun reimbursing consumers. Moreover, consumers especially the owners who are trying to get rid of their timeshares have been constantly warned by Attorney General’s office against the unfair resale practices these days.

Transfer Smart News: Timeshare Operator Run Afoul with Labor law

2010-08-20T19:15:00.000-07:00

In Orlando, Florida, we typically hear stories about timeshare companies conning owners who are trying to get out of their timeshare contracts. But recently, there’s another twist to such stories which still involved a timeshare company. An operator of a timeshare ran afoul with federal regulators and Florida labor law, and must compensate their so-called off-property consultants of nearly $1 million in lost wages and overtime. The Florida employment issue came to light primarily as the result of a routine labor audit.

The errors impacted more than a thousand employees at Central Florida Investments. This is a timeshare operator which is based in Orlando that does business as Westgate Resorts. According to Westgate, the audit revealed that 1,065 off-property consultants were paid at a rate falling below the federal minimum wage for some of their hours worked. It also revealed that premium compensation paid to workers did not include commissions, and overtime was not properly computed.

As Mark Waltrip, Westgate's chief operating officer said, what they discovered is there was a discrepancy in how they were calculating overtime for certain marketing personnel and it wasn't anything intentional. Meanwhile, there were no criminal charges or fines to be assessed against the company.

On the other hand, Waltrip credited the US Department of Labor (DOL) with helping to bring the discrepancies to light and stressed that the government agency did not find any intentional wrongdoing. However, several timeshare operator's employees have filed lawsuits in an attempt to collect overtime pay they are owed. As a result, the DOL indicates that Westgate will have to correct the errors, extend back payments to those affected and implement new procedures for record-keeping.

Factors to Think about When Selling Your Timeshare Smartly

2010-08-19T17:54:00.000-07:00

With the current economic uncertainty, almost everyone is affected in a single way or an additional. And for those who are possessing timeshares, they may be thinking of getting out of their timeshare contracts. Of course, the best way would be to sell it to recover some costs. But when it comes to marketing timeshares, there are a number of factors to think about.

One particular way to sell a timeshare is to outsource the sales procedure and have somebody do it to suit your needs. But if the cashflow is the priority then this might not be the most effective selection as this typically involved additional cost. You will then discover other, cheaper alternatives likewise.

Meanwhile, one option is to have a private sale instead. Naturally, this has its own pros and cons. Unlike having a broker or firm to do it for you, you may have to perform much regarding setup yourself. This will consists of designing the copy for ads, figuring out exactly where you need to have them (both on and offline)and likewise keeping track of each ad’s performance and ensuring that you just do not go over your marketing budget.

If the previous option might sound like lots of work, you might have to procure the services of the broker. This will indicate though that the sale price of vacation property must be increased so as to pay for the invoice you will get or to pay for the commission charged on the sale. Some factors to become aware of whenever you sell your timeshare is that you’ll find that some brokers out there insist on their fee upfront. You could possibly be happy paying a portion just to have moving but paying the full fee may possibly be anything you balk at.

Transfer Smart News: CASE releases Consumer Advisory against a Timeshare Firm

2010-08-18T19:43:00.000-07:00

As timeshare ownership is getting more popular vacationing option every year, there are also increasing complaints regarding timeshares. For some owners, they just try to get out of their timeshares because of the disadvantages that they are complaining. But recently, the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) red-flagged Worldex Pte Ltd as the organization received 137 complaints against the timeshare company’s doubtful service.

According to the list of complaints, Worldex’s questionable practices include purchasing timeshare contracts from clients who have to wait 30 to 60 years to receive their payout plus profit. Customers were also have to pay hundreds of dollars in consultation fees when they attend presentation’s at the Worldex office, which are completely separate from the membership fee.

Meanwhile, others have complained of the company’s supposedly inexpensive holiday offers. Customers are asked to invest S$10,000 to avail of Worldex’s steeply discounted rates for luxury holidays and 5-star accommodations. However, the rates turned out to be not as cheap as promised, and there were still many lower-priced alternatives.

Such complaints have prompted CASE to release a consumer advisory against Worldex. Mr. Seng Choon, executive director of CASE, has already warned that they will pursue legal action should the organization receive more complaints.

On the other hand, Choon warned timeshare investors to be wary of businesses offering to buy their timeshare memberships.

Such companies have consistently been the main source of complaints received by the organization. In the past year alone, it received more than 2,500 complaints. Moreover, more timeshare companies in Singapore are luring customers with offers of buying their timeshare contracts for a substantial fee. Such cases have gone up tenfold since they began surfacing in 2003, and now, they make up more than 25% of timeshare complaints.

Smart Options for an Unwanted Timeshare

2010-08-17T18:56:00.000-07:00

Timeshares are known as properties that can be passed down to the owner’s children or heirs. As it turned out, many heirs don’t like such idea as they shoulder the costs associated with it. Thus, many of them want to get out of these timeshare contracts. To recover some expenses, they try to sell it first before any other option. The question now is, what is the best way to sell it?

As we all know, timeshares are very difficult to sell, particularly at a decent price like something close to what was paid for it. Usually, the price that you sell it for is generally about the same that you would have to pay in annual maintenance charges. So, essentially you're just giving it away. In fact, one of the problems in trying to sell your unit is that there are many unsold new properties on the market and timeshare sales have suffered significantly from the recession.

Meanwhile, the market nowadays is full of timeshare resale scams. However, you can try to search on the internet and get a look at all of the good deals that are offered that seemingly make it easy to sell and at a good price. Most of these ads will require you to give the sales company a down payment of several hundreds of dollars for them to list it. And as the scam cases reported, you never hear from the company again.

You can also get some compensation out of your unit by donating it to a charity. Most of time, you can probably deduct the cost from your income tax. You could donate it just once a year for a raffle or charity auction, or you can donate it permanently.

Moreover, you can market your timeshare as a rental property. Maybe, some of your friends might be interested in renting the property for the week or two that you own it. With this, at least you'd get enough money out of the rental to pay for the annual upkeep fee. Timeshare properties are nice to stay in and a good to vacation. But remember that you can often rent them rather than own.

Smart Ways to Identify if a Timeshare or Travel Club is Legitimate or Not

2010-08-17T01:24:00.000-07:00

Nowadays, everywhere you turn, someone is trying to sell you something. Some of the products that are sold with high-pressure tactics are timeshares and travel club memberships. With many owners today who want to get out of their timeshare contracts, the sales pitch entice you that spending some money with them now will save you lots more later. However, it isn't easy to separate honest over-the-top sales pitches from the outright scams. Meanwhile, travel clubs are also among the most problematic opportunities dangled in front of you.

The question is how can you tell if this travel club offer is legitimate or not. The problem club operations are those that ask for big bucks in up-front membership fees on the promise that members will get great deals in the future. Among these are the more benign subset consists mainly of timeshare promotions in disguise, presumably, to avoid the timeshare label, widely viewed as flawed.

All too often, law enforcement officials warned that the promised discounts and savings never materialize. The promoters provide prices that are no better than travelers can buy openly, through a wide range of discount sources, and the promised dream vacations never seem to become available.

Meanwhile, some very high-end vacation clubs actually own a string of vacation properties. That is, members share in the ownership of these properties, and the club operator agrees to repurchase for a reasonable price. Most mass-market timeshares, however, offer no asset value to back up your initial investment. At best, you own your membership and can sell it or pass it along to your heirs. However, some timeshare deals are for the term of your life only and will revert to the owner on your death.

On the other hand, beyond the resort aspects, challenge all claimed discount deals and don't be gullible. Try to ask about the specifics of a few available discount deals, and check them out before you accept any broad claim of great prices. Also, try to google the promotion or vacation club and check with a few of the gripe sites to see if the operation has generated any serious complaints or, even worse, law enforcement actions.

Transfer Smart News: Timeshare Resale Firm Announces its New Services

2010-08-14T17:58:00.000-07:00

With the many owners trying to get out of their timeshare contracts, resale companies are also flourishing. Such companies will do the transactions for the owner in order to sell its timeshares. One of these companies is Sell My Timeshare NOW which is considered a global leader in timeshare resales and rentals. Recently, it announces that the company is expanding its services, introducing important new options for timeshare owners.

According to Jason Tremblay, the company's founder and CEO, says, timeshare owners want and need choices in how they resell their timeshares. In addition to the owner-advertising option, they are expanding their timeshare brokerage service capabilities and will begin presenting those services as an additional option when sellers contact them.

As part of the new business model, Sell My Timeshare NOW is transitioning to a sales team almost exclusively comprising of licensed real estate professionals. The company is serious about de-emphasizing that timeshare advertising is its primary product. It has been conducting in-house training at the corporate offices in Dover, New Hampshire in order to help prepare employees for the required testing they will face in obtaining state real estate licenses. Tremblay added that he sees this as investing in the company by investing in its employees, and that SellMyTimeshareNOW will also be looking to hire additional licensed real estate professionals for its Orlando, Florida offices.

Sell My Timeshare NOW offers by-owner timeshare advertising which is sold by trained timeshare sales professionals. Its affiliate Timeshare Broker Services, on the other hand, offers a full range of professional real estate services. In 2009 alone, the company's websites generated 61,743 offers to buy timeshare resales and 85,949 offers to rent timeshares. Meanwhile, consumers who want to get rid of their timeshares by reselling it through Sell My Timeshare NOW, they must pay a one-time advertising fee for sale-by-owner advertising and marketing that the company provides through its highly visible, well-positioned websites. The owner's timeshare ad remains on the company's websites, continuing to be marketed until it sells.

Transfer Smart News: TATOC Launches Sharetime Website to Reach More Timeshare Owners

2010-08-13T02:04:00.000-07:00

With the many owners trying to get out of their timeshare contracts along with its number of predicaments, some associations were formed to represent its interests. The TATOC or the Timeshare Association is one of these and was formed in 1989. It is the only elected consumer association representing the interests of timeshare owners in Europe. Recently, TATOC announced that its magazine Sharetime will be available to all timeshare owners through a new dedicated website, sharetimemagazine.com. In the future, the quarterly magazine will be in digital format only.

Previously, Sharetime was only printed and distributed to just its member resorts. Now, it will be available to all timeshare owners through the dedicated website, sharetimemagazine.com. Both the Sharetime website and the magazine will contain news, features and articles of interest of today’s timeshare owner and owner committees representing resorts in the UK and Europe. The next issue of Sharetime is set to be published this September.

Meanwhile, TATOC represents over 80 resorts throughout Europe and has access to over 250,000 timeshare owners. The aim of this magazine is to provide a positive image of the industry to both timeshare owners and the general public. On the other hand, Sharetime magazine will support the efforts of TATOC to promote timeshare, protect consumers from scammers and to secure the future of a legitimate industry for its members to continue to enjoy. The new digital format will allow this message to be spread even further.

According to Harry Taylor, TATOC CEO, they want to ensure that TATOCs message reaches as many timeshare owners as possible and the new digital version of Sharetime and the site itself will help us achieve this. The launch of the new Sharetime website and online magazine has created a number of advertising and promotional opportunities for businesses and vacation resorts.

Transfer Smart News: US Timeshare Resale Company Acquires Canadian Resale Firm

2010-08-10T20:33:00.000-07:00

With the number of owners who are trying to get out of their timeshare contracts increasing every year, there is an apparent for timeshare resale companies. Meanwhile, deciding which resale company to work with does matter. Recently, SellMyTimeshareNow.com, considered one of the world’s largest and most respected online timeshare resale and rental marketing organizations, has recently announced the acquisition of the primary asset as well as the customers of Canada’s leading timeshare reseller, RapidResale.ca.

According to Jason Tremblay, CEO of SellMyTimeshareNow.com, during the recent months, RapidResale founder April Cummins has become more involved in sales and marketing efforts for Canadian developers and sought a company to whom she could entrust her resale business, one that would take over the management of the existing website and the servicing of its customers. Due to their high level of success and national recognition, April asked if they would be willing to acquire this segment of her business to ensure a high level of continuing service for her customers.

Tremblay added that the six-year-old RapidResale website is already a highly trusted, well-optimized, perfectly positioned site that ranks extremely well with Canadian search engines. They are excited about the acquisition since it will provide their web-based company opportunities to further expand their presence in Canada. Links on their website will lead potential renters and buyers to the Canadian site, benefiting everyone involved. Their ultimate plan is for all of their sellers’ properties to be displayed on all of their websites including RapidResale.ca.

Founded in 2004, the RapidResale.ca is the domain name for Secondary Solutions Group which is an Ontario-based Canadian timeshare resales leader with a solid reputation for success and its growth into a multi-million dollar organization. The company also provides sales and marketing solutions to developers of shared-use vacation properties. On the other hand, SellMyTimeshareNow.com is recognized as a global leader in online timeshare resale and rental marketing, with over $427 million in offers through its websites in 2009.

Transfer Smart News: Timeshare Industry Gives Refunds to Federal Allegations

2010-08-10T02:18:00.000-07:00

Today, there are numerous complaints in the timeshare industry and thus, many owners want to get out of their timeshare contracts. But in Broward County, Florida and across the country, owners will soon split $562,000. This is an amount equal to the illegal contributions collected by the political fundraising arm of the US vacation industry from 2003-2007.

The said payout is a part of a deal between the industry and the Federal Election Commission to settle civil allegations of wrongdoing in the solicitation and distribution of millions of dollars in political contributions. The American Resort Development Association - Resort Owners Coalition PAC will also pay a $300,000 civil penalty. This is the largest fine imposed by the FEC since 2007.

According to ARDA, the errors were made in the collection of contributions but called them unintentional and unfortunate. ARDA's Washington attorney Mark Braden said that ARDA has taken proactive steps to suspend any improper practices and rectify past errors in an open and transparent way.

Meanwhile, the sale of vacation timeshares is a $10 billion-a-year business, with a large footprint in South Florida. In 2008 alone, 4.7 million households owned one or more weekly interval or points-equivalent timeshare properties as cited in ARDA's website. Moreover, Florida has more timeshare resorts than any other state.

ARDA is the industry's Washington-based trade association and also a major lobbying force on Capitol Hill and in Tallahassee. As shown by Federal records, since 2006, ARDA has spent more than $1.1 million on Washington lobbyists to oppose such things as mortgage reform legislation, including the expansion of truth-in-lending requirements to timeshare buyers.

Meanwhile, ARDA-ROC PAC has contributed hundreds of thousands of dollars to Republicans and Democrats and nearly all that political money came from tens of thousands of timeshare owners who paid them in small amounts to their property management companies as part of their regular bills. In 2008, the FEC disclosed that timeshare owners had been misled into donating to ARDA-ROC PAC while paying their regular vacation property fees. Political contributions are voluntary, and federal law requires solicitations to make that clear. At least three of ARDA-ROC PAC's solicitations lacked that information.

Transfer Smart News: Bluegreen Corp. Shows a Boost in its Timeshare Sales

2010-08-08T19:08:00.000-07:00

Although there are still a number of owners who are trying to get out of their timeshare contracts, the recovering economy is making it a favorable condition for this industry. The timeshare business is already showing a sales boost this year. One of these companies is the Bluegreen Corp which although the earnings were off 37% in the second quarter, it sales of its timeshare resorts expanded.

The Boca Raton-based company had a net income of $4.3 million, or 14 cents a share, on revenue of $107.4 million. In the same period last year, it posted a net income of $6.8 million, or 22 cents a share, on revenue of $90.1 million. The results in the second quarter of the year 2009 included a one-time tax benefit of $4.6 million.

The bulk of Bluegreen’s revenue growth came in sales of timeshare resorts, which increased 33% quarter-over-quarter. Bluegreen had 40 timeshare resorts and hotels under management as of June 30, which is up by three from a year ago. However, the sales of homes in Bluegreen Communities declined and made up a relatively small portion of the company’s revenue.

The company held $744.6 million in outstanding loans to Bluegreen timeshare buyers and as of June 30, 3.8% of that was past due by more than 30 days. As for its own debt, Bluegreen said it had two receivable loans that are set to expire near the end of August. Meanwhile, it is talking to lenders about renewing or extending those loans. The company also had $40.5 million of receivable-backed loans outstanding as of June 30 and $63.6 million in unrestricted cash. This year, businesses about vacation properties like timeshares shows a great improvement compared to the previous year. Bluegreen Corp. is one of those companies that shows an improvement in their timeshare resorts’ sales.

Smart Ways to Sell Your UK Timeshare Property

2010-08-05T12:01:00.000-07:00

The UK is considered a popular location for timeshare holders nowadays. Places like London, Kent, Balcombe, Lancaster, Bournemouth, Bradford-on-Avon, Norwich, Callington and Canterbury are especially sought after by many holidaymakers. But no matter how great a location is, many people today are in need to minimize their expenses. One of these is to get out of their timeshare contracts.

Timeshare costs and charges can build up over time and become a heavy load for many owners. These charges are probably one of the most common reasons why owners want to sell their timeshare property in the UK today. But when it comes to selling a timeshare, owners should be aware of a number of things to successfully close a deal.

First, watch for hidden fees when you sell your timeshare especially when working it out with reselling company. Make sure you have a clear understanding about the actual costs and charges you will be responsible for. Make sure also that that reselling company has a good reputation. There are many scams nowadays and you should be aware of it.

One of the best ways to check out the company is to go into Google.com and type in the name of the company you’re dealing with and the word scam. This will typically bring you a few discussions on the subject. You will be able to quickly determine whether there have been a lot of complaints or not. Discussion forums are also a great place to find this information. If however you see several complaints then, be very wary about conducting any business with that company. Moreover, choosing to sell a vacation property such as timeshares can be a big decision and you should practice your due diligence in order to avoid scams.

Knowing Smartly the Timeshare Financing Options

2010-08-04T11:04:00.000-07:00

Although there are several owners who are trying to get out of their timeshare contracts these days, many holidaymakers are into timeshare ownership as a way to vacation. Meanwhile, some people opt for loans to pay for such purchase. And once a timeshare is financed, they can opt for refinancing. Refinancing refers to the replacement of an existing debt obligation by another debt obligation of different stipulations. Be warned though that there are also risks involved with this. This article presents some insights into the common timeshare refinancing options.

First, check your personal credit report as a bad credit usually results to a higher interest rate to refinance a timeshare. You may also order a copy of your credit report before contacting a lender. Your aim here is to get as lowest rate as possible.

You may also contact a timeshare refinancing company. Today, several companies specialize in timeshare refinances wherein you can obtain a better interest rate or extend your loan term. Look at 3 to 4 different companies and request a no-obligation quote.

Another option is to refinance the loan with a bank or credit union. Banks and credit unions typically offer the lowest interest rate on timeshares. You may purchase the timeshare with in-house financing first and then refinance it at a later date.

Moreover, you can apply for a home equity loan or cash-out mortgage refinancing for your timeshare. You'll then receive a lump sum of cash which can pay off the timeshare loan since home equity loans and mortgage refinances have lower rates, you'll then save money.

On the other hand, the best option when purchasing a vacation property such as timeshares is still to pay through cash. But for those who are interested in buying a timeshare can also use the above-mentioned options to obtain funds for the purchase. As refinancing a timeshare is considered a risky option, any potential owner must look at the details of these options in any aspect before jumping to any deal.

Transfer Smart News: Accor Vacation Club Standout during the ATHOC Awards

2010-08-03T10:36:00.000-07:00

Recently, the Timeshare Industry held its 19th annual National Industry Awards designed to recognize the best of the best in each Member Company’s employees and Accor Vacation Club was the standout performer, taking five of the night’s major awards for Marketing, Innovation and Sales Team amongst others. Although many owners are trying to get out of their timeshare contracts these days, this vacation club still get a 2800+ members this year.

According to Craig Wood, CEO of Accor Vacation Club, their business has proven its resilience over the last 12 months. Having a quality product offering exceptional value for money always gives you an advantage in any market conditions, but without doubt their success can be attributed to the individual and team efforts their members of staff have made over the past year.

Wood added that all of Accor Vacation Club’s employees have been pushing for excellence in 2009/2010 to achieve their goals that then reflect back positively to their 28,000+ Members. This is constantly reinforced by the positive feedback and comments that they receive from their satisfied member base. Wood further stated that that awards are recognition of the hard work and effort provided by all of the team at Accor Vacation Club and the support that they receive from their parent company ACCOR.

Accor’s commitment to their members is to provide a world-class service, and these awards recognize their commitment in employee development to achieve this objective. Wood congratulates all their Accor Management and staff who are extended to these new industry ambassadors of Accor Vacation Club.

Transfer Smart News: Wyndham Cites Revenue Boost in Timeshare Business

2010-08-02T18:23:00.000-07:00

Although many owners are trying to get out of their timeshare contracts these days, a number of timeshare companies are already showing revenue boosts as the economy is on its way to full recovery. One of these companies is the Wyndham Worldwide Corp which recently lifted its 2010 outlook, citing increasing strength in its lodging, timeshare and vacation exchange businesses, and its shares shot up as much as 10.1 percent.

The company, which franchises hotels under the Days Inn, Ramada and Super 8 brands, stated that it also is benefiting from a revised tax structure this year. This year, it forecasts full-year earnings per share of $1.78 to $1.88. This beat out analysts' expectations of $1.68.

Meanwhile, the full-year revenue is projected to fall between $3.7 billion and $4 billion. Analysts on the other hand had forecast $3.8 billion. According to Chief Executive Stephen Holmes, each one of their businesses was ahead of their expectations, and they felt that momentum would help them through the rest of the year.

Wyndham's timeshare segment makes up about half of its overall annual revenue. Vacation exchange and rentals make up 31% while lodging makes up almost 20%. The bulk of Wyndham's more than 7,100 hotels fall into the low-cost or economy segment which typically do not see the dramatic swings in room rates and occupancy that luxury and upscale hotels tend to experience.

Although there are a number of owners trying to get rid of their timeshares, Wyndham's domestic revenue per available room or revpar, rose in June and it continue during the first three weeks of July. As Holmes said, they're seeing a strengthening and some momentum building and they have continually said the recovery will be gradual. Wyndham predicts revpar will rise as much as 3% in 2010, compared with the previous projection of flat to down 3%.

Transfer Smart News: Cape Cod Timeshare Owners Accuse a Local Developer of a Scam

2010-07-31T01:26:00.000-07:00

For those owners who are trying to get out of their timeshares, one of their main reasons of doing so is due to the costs involved in it. However, some scammers use this as a scare tactic to prey on the unsuspecting victims. Recently, the members of a timeshare resort on Cape Cod are accusing a local developer of muscling in on their treasured vacation spot and bringing in slick out-of-state marketers to con them out of their property deeds.

The developer is Cliff Hagberg who took over the Sandcastle Resort in Provincetown two years ago when everyone agrees the timeshare had gone to seed. According to Hagberg, he's done right by the roughly 4,000 timeshare owners at the resort and he's overseen more than $1 million in repairs to the resort, which included new decks, landscaping and a poolside snack bar. He furher stated that they've literally gone room by room throughout the entire resort and have a detailed list of what each room needs. Moreover, he said that the idea is not to turn the Sandcastle into a Marriott, the idea is to make it the best Sandcastle that it can be. As far as I can tell, there's only good news at the Sandcastle.

Meanwhile, timeshare owners accuse Hagberg and his out-of-state partners of seizing control of the resort and then pressuring people to swap their deeds for membership in another timeshare. As one owners said, if they refused that deal, they were told they would be stuck paying the high cost of renovating the Sandcastle.

There are 49 timeshare owners at the Sandcastle who have filed complaints with the Attorney General's office. They claim Hagberg and representatives of a Texas company called Outfield Marketing of using scare tactics on the owners, convincing many of them that the only way to avoid a financial nightmare with such vacation property was to give up their deeds and pay more than three thousand dollars to join a national timeshare company called Festiva Resorts.

Transfer Smart News: Feds Charge 3 Men in Illinois for Timeshare Fraud

2010-07-29T18:44:00.000-07:00

There is a growing scam nowadays telling blatant lies on the phone to those owners who are desperate to get out of their timeshare contracts. Recently, some national heat is coming down about such fraud on three Palm Beach County pitchers. The federal grand jurors in East St. Louis, Illinois, indicted Darnell Disroe, 38, and Michael Lentine, 32, of Boynton Beach and Michael Starace, 42, of Lantana. Meanwhile, Boynton Beach police and US postal inspectors cooperated in an investigation that found more than 600 victims were bilked for more than $1.3 million in 46 states and Canada.

According to an unsealed indictment, Real Timeshare Marketing asked timeshare condo owners to pay thousands of dollars for costs associated with phony pending sales. Despite collecting $1.3 million in fees between Dec. 1 and April 28, the company was not instrumental in selling a single timeshare interest, as the federal officials said.

Similar cases also have become the top complaint to a state fraud hot line, surpassing mortgage scams, and involving more than 10,000 complaints against scores of companies. Palm Beach County has been a hotbed for the business with 10 of 17 companies subpoenaed by the Florida Attorney General's Office in March based in the county. Fines, settlements and pending civil charges at the state and local level have also addressed some of the complaints.

Currently, the federal authorities are pursuing charges of mail fraud and other offenses that carry up to 25 years in prison or fines up to $250,000 per count. Among others, an Illinois customer paid $1,886 after an agent for Real Timeshare Marketing promised someone wanted to buy the customer's timeshare interest for more than $20,000. But the sale of such vacation property never happened, as authorities said. The US Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Illinois has recently announced the charges.

Transfer Smart News: Timeshare Fraud Case Filed Against a Father-and-Son Duo

2010-07-28T22:54:00.000-07:00

Although there are several scams in the timeshare industry along with the increasing number of owners who are trying to get out of their timeshares every year, many vacationers are still into such vacation properties. Recently in Miami, a father-and-son duo was accused of timeshare fraud. They allegedly bankrolled their lavish lifestyles with $170 million in investors' money, and when investors began to question their activities, they responded with threats and intimidation, as the dozens of lawsuits filed in Federal Court stated.

According to the lawsuit, Frederick Elliott and his son, Derek Elliott, sold timeshares in luxury vacation properties in the Dominican Republic, promising investors a steady and predictable double-digit returns on allegedly safe investments. As the lawsuit stated, Frederick and Derek misused plaintiffs' hard-earned money to finance fanciful Hollywood productions, produce self promotional videos, purchase a half-a-million-dollar yacht, and pay off personal gambling debts in Las Vegas, among other things.

There are about 170 investors who have sued the Elliotts and their complex web of offshore companies and shell corporations that they have created to escape liability. As the lawsuits stated, they treated these entities as one collective 'piggy bank,' taking funds from one company indiscriminately to pay the obligations of another.

The Elliotts base their operations in Miami. According to the investors, they do this because Miami offered a sophisticated banking system with access to international financial markets, and willing bilingual professionals to assist them in their illegal pursuits. Most of their victims were found through presentations on cruise ships where they were invited to speak.

The Elliotts allegedly sold timeshares in some resort properties that weren't finished like a hotel in Juan Dolia, and then rented them out through travel agencies such as Expedia and Travelocity. Timeshare owners were supposed to get a cut of the rent of such vacation property. But in typical Ponzi fashion, the Elliotts used money from new investors to pay the original timeshare purchasers. Among other things, investors accuse the Elliotts and their companies of racketeering, wire fraud, money laundering, civil conspiracy and breach of contract.

A Smart Look at the History of Florida Timeshares

2010-07-27T10:36:00.000-07:00

Although there is a negative perception regarding the timeshare industry as well as there are several owners who are trying to get out of their timeshare contracts every year, Florida still houses several timeshare resorts and considered one of the main contributors in its tourism industry. Decades ago, the Florida government decided to capitalize on their lovely location and climate conditions, and provided several business incentives for the tourism industry to develop.

Meanwhile, the timeshare concept originated in the early 60's and although many people who are visiting the sunshine state desired a vacation property, there are only a few who could afford it. The 60's brought in the decade of peace and love and the popularity of owning your hotel room as opposed to renting it as a one off.

By the 70's, some of the larger management companies evolved such as RCI and Consolidated TS Inc. and Florida was a natural fit for those companies due to its popularity, climate, attractions and ease of access. Since then, there are several smaller industries which have grown around the larger tourism industry, to service and support it. These include the hotel industry, the entertainment industry, the nightlife, the various sports facilities, and so on. All these combine to create an environment which is very attractive to anyone traveling on vacation inside the state.

Due to all the reasons cited above, Florida is one of the most reputed vacation destinations in the US and will continue to be so for a long time. Furthermore, the flexible nature of Florida timeshares means that the timeshare packages can be customized to suit any kind of vacationer.

Transfer Smart News: Timeshare Relief Launches New Website

2010-07-26T21:52:00.000-07:00

For those owners who want to get out of their timeshare contracts, timeshare transfer companies may be the best solution to do so. One of such companies well-known today is the Timeshare Relief. This company alleviates clients of their burdensome timeshare contracts and recently reveals their new website (www.timesharerelief.com), making it easier for customers to navigate.

The new website has several added features including, most notably, a video tour of the corporate headquarters on the home page. It was designed to be more intuitive and user-friendly. One notable addition to the new site is its video tour of the corporate headquarters located in Torrance, California. It has been entirely redesigned to provide a faster, more user-friendly layout. The website’s navigation has been streamlined through the organization of specific areas of interest, giving it a sleeker, cleaner look.

But prior to the update, the site had a significant amount of information per page and less total pages. Also, the new site has a focused amount of specific, congruent information per page and more pages on the site. Moreover, it aims to give every specific section its own area, clearing up any confusion which makes the site navigation more intuitive, improving the overall functionality of the website.

On the other hand, Timeshare Relief is not a timeshare resale company. It guarantees their clients an exit solution to get rid of their timeshares as long as the timeshare is paid off and maintenance fees are current. It has already helped more than 45,000 timeshare owners transfer more than 52,000 timeshare contracts.

Transfer Smart News: Timeshare Resale Companies Get Sued and Subpoenaed in Florida

2010-07-23T11:32:00.000-07:00

As more and more owners are trying to get out of their timeshare contracts every year, the incidences of scams are also increasing in this industry. But the authorities are determined to combat such issue. Just like in Florida, three companies were sued last Tuesday while four others were issued subpoenas. All of these companies are accused of luring customers into paying upfront fees for advertising of their timeshares. The sellers were then told companies already had buyers lined up to buy their timeshares. But when the properties didn't sell in the amount of time the company promised they would, customers could not get refunds.

The suits and subpoenas issued are the latest in a series of attacks on the industry by the Florida Attorney General's Office. Over the past year, there were a total of 10 timeshare resellers which have been sued and 60 are under investigation. In the US, Florida is considered the concentration of timeshare properties. According to the American Resort Development Association or ARDA, about a quarter of the country's timeshare resorts are in this state.

The lawsuits were filed against Timeshares Direct, International Marketing and Finance Group, and Gold Crown Property Management. Meanwhile, the subpoenas were issued to Eclipse Property Solutions of St. Petersburg, Super Timeshare Resales of Tampa, International Resort Properties of New Port Richey and Ace Timeshare of Pinellas Park for information about sales and business practices, copies of contracts, licenses, marketing materials, telephone transcripts, the identity of affiliate businesses and other documents.

Currently, the attorney general's office is working with the Federal Trade Commission, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and local law enforcement to combat fraud regarding vacation properties such as timeshares. So far, customers have been repaid about $1.8 million.

Transfer Smart News: Florida AG Files Lawsuit against Timeshare Companies

2010-07-22T21:12:00.000-07:00

While the number of owners eager to get out of their timeshares is increasing every year, timeshare resale industry is also flourishing. However, the resale industry has been the favorite haven of the fraudsters and scammers nowadays, and thus, giving it a negative perception among the consumers. Recently, the Florida’s attorney general has filed lawsuits against three timeshare companies. This includes one in Palm Beach County which is allegedly engaged in deceptive and unfair practices. It is alleged that the companies used misleading sales pitches to get consumers to pay upfront fees for their advertising services.

One lawsuit which was filed in Palm Beach County Circuit Court is against International Marketing and Finance Group. It said that the timeshare reseller engaged in deceptive business practices by, among other things, misrepresenting the availability of refunds for upfront fees paid by consumers and, in some instances, unlawfully charging consumers’ credit cards prior to the receipt of signed contracts.

The two other suits on the other hand were filed against Timeshares By Owner and against Gold Crown Property Management and its owners, Roy Xiques and Jason Kres. The suit against Timeshares By Owner alleges that such company is in violation of a 2001 settlement agreement in which it was prohibited from using misleading sales tactics.

Meanwhile, the suit against Gold Crown and its owners was filed in Pinellas County Circuit Court. It seeks refunds and stops the company from making false promises that a buyer is ready and available to purchase a client’s vacation property. It also seeks to prohibit the company from claiming that clients can easily obtain a refund even if a buyer is not found. Since 2007, the Florida AG’s office has received more than 180 complaints alleging that the company was not honoring the conditions of the settlement.

Knowing Smartly Why it is Hard to Sell A Timeshare

2010-07-21T11:09:00.000-07:00

With the current economic climate, most individuals are looking for ways to lessen their expenses. For those regular vacationers who own a vacation property, this might mean getting out of a timeshare contract. Most owners find that this might be the best solution to stop paying those maintenance and other fees.

Anyone who owns a timeshare these will notice that their fees have gone up or they have been charged a special assessment of some kind. So, they decided to sell their timeshare. But it is not easy to sell timeshare properties and many timeshare owners can testify that it is a difficult process.

Well, there are several reasons why it is hard to sell a timeshare these days. One that's going to be the most relevant has something to do with the state of the economy. As the economy is making everything harder, timeshares are thus becoming harder to own. If they're harder to own, it's going to be even harder to sell it.

Today, more Americans have realized that paying in advance for a vacation does not make sense. For them, paying for an asset that only drains one’s pocketbook does not make sense. Thus, for those who are looking to sell a timeshare, be mindful of the economy and the mindset and bank account of the average consumer.

Moreover, it is important to understand that there is an incredibly tough timeshare resale market. Many timeshare owners were unable to sell their timeshare. As they've been through the hassle of trying to list their timeshare on resale sites, they did not have any luck. They just could not sell such vacation property for anything.

Transfer Smart News: Disney Vacation Club Revives Effort for the Aulani Project

2010-07-20T18:01:00.000-07:00

With the number of owners trying to get out of their timeshares nowadays along with the negative perception of consumers regarding the vacationing option, timeshare companies must extend their marketing efforts to regain the thrusts of end-users. Like the Disney Vacation Club, the Disney Co.'s timeshare arm which recently added an Aulani-specific plug to a television commercial that has been airing in the Orlando market promoting the timeshare club. It has also scheduled a special sales preview aimed at Walt Disney World annual passholders soon that will include giveaways, a dance party and Disney character appearances.

Meanwhile, Aulani is a critically important project for Disney. This 841-room hotel and timeshare is the first test of the company's strategy to build stand-alone resorts and niche attractions in markets beyond its massive theme-park resorts.
On the other hand, the company is also hoping the Hawaiian resort will help expand Disney Vacation Club's membership base, which currently is heavily concentrated on the US East Coast.

Aulani will be Disney's second timeshare offering in the west of the Mississippi, following the opening last year of 50 units at Disney's Grand California Resort & Spa at Disneyland in Anaheim, Calif. It also becomes one of five properties that the Disney is currently peddling interests in, joining the California villas as well as Bay Lake Tower, Animal Kingdom Villas and Treehouse Villas, all of which are at Disney World. The three tourism properties in Central Florida are up for auction. These include including a 123-acre development in Kissimmee and a 77-acre property in Orlando's International Drive tourist corridor.

Transfer Smart News: Timeshare Company Becomes Official Reseller The Crane Resort

2010-07-19T20:06:00.000-07:00

With the current economic climate, consumers have a need to unload some of their unnecessary expenses. For the holidaymakers, this could mean getting out of a timeshare contract and one of the ways to do this is through the aid of resale companies. One such company is the Sell My Timeshare Now which has become an Authorized Reseller for The Crane Resort in Barbados. As a result, this will expand timeshare resales opportunities for owners at The Crane Resort and it will extend Sell My Timeshare Now’s network in the Caribbean.

As Kim Goddard, sales director at The Crane Resort commented, they are excited to enhance their resale program by partnering with Vacation Property Solutions, the Resort Services Division of SellMyTimeshareNOW.com and Timeshare Broker Services, the company’s brokerage organization, to best represent the weeks that The Crane owners may desire to sell.

Meanwhile, the Barbados resort boasts breathtaking beachfront setting and it is often described as the Caribbean’s first resort. Built in 1887, the facility has now been fully updated but it still retains the elements of its original style which made give it elegance and sophistication.

On the other hand, Jay Bade, a registered resort professional and Vice President of Business Development for Sell My Timeshare Now stated that although The Crane Resort has a successful resale program in place, affiliating with Sell My Timeshare NOW increases visibility for The Crane Resort resales. Sell My Timeshare NOW is also thrilled to be recognized as an authorized reseller for The Crane Resort’s active resales program and to represent current owners at the resort when they want to sell vacation ownership and fractional weeks.

Transfer Smart News: Investigators Raid Timeshare Call Center in Ormond Beach

2010-07-17T19:50:00.000-07:00

For those owners who are eager to get out of their timeshares working it out with a resale company maybe a great option. But eager as they are, this also gave rise to numerous scams in the timeshare industry. Just like the recent case where the state investigators raided a timeshare call center in Volusia County on South Atlantic Avenue in Ormond Beach. According to the investigators, Buy Owner Resort Marketing in Ormond Beach promised to help customers sell their timeshares and then took their money.

State agents raided the suspected call center and seized boxes of records and computers. After dozens of people claimed they were being scammed by the timeshare company, it is under investigation. The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services shut down the said company in March for being an unlicensed telemarketing company. The state then reopened its investigation and then served a warrant when it learned the company was still operating.

Victims all over the country filed complaints with the State Attorney General's Office against the said company. As they stated, the company promised to sell or rent out their timeshare properties, but never delivered. Victims also said that they paid thousands of dollars in upfront fees, appraisals and even closing costs.

It was also found out that the Better Business Bureau gave the company an F rating and said there are at least 20 unanswered complaints. Officials on the other hand, are unaware of any vacation property ever being rented or sold. The company is once again shut down and the investigation is still ongoing. So far, there have been no arrests.

Some Dos and Don’ts of Timeshare Ownership That a Smart Consumer Must Know

2010-07-15T14:44:00.000-07:00

Owning a timeshare can be very tempting especially if you are presented with those pictures of great locations and complete amenities. However, try to think also that there are several owners today who are trying to get out of their timeshare contracts and as eager as they are, they can’t do it right away as it is not that easy to be freed from timeshare liabilities. Thus, if you are planning to own one, try to analyze your decision carefully and be informed about the dos and don’ts of timeshare ownership.

First, deciding to buy a timeshare must not be based on any high-pressured sales pitch. Don't be pressured into a deal there and then. That deal might be of extremely poor value when you consider the long term costs, and the outrageous rates of interest and horrendous penalty clauses. Walk away if you are told that the deal is only on the table for that day.

Take note also that if you consider financing a timeshare, it will be much more affordable if you organize it yourself. As with everything else to do with loans and mortgages, the market today is highly competitive and there are always deals to be found in other finance markets. You can also get some expert advice on this.

Moreover, owning a timeshare is a long-term drain on your bank balance. Be prepared for the maintenance fees and/or other membership costs among others. If you can't find the money outright, then reconsider your decision as you will never know what will come along in the economic climate today that will affect your finances. Remember that owning a timeshare is not an investment in monetary terms, only in vacation terms.

Smart Hints to Sell Your Timeshare Fast

2010-07-14T20:20:00.000-07:00

When one decides to get out of his timeshare, selling it is probably the next move. But choosing to sell a timeshare is not only a difficult decision but also a difficult task. However, with proper precautions and correct research, you may be able to successfully sell your timeshare even in difficult markets.

One great option that most owners tend to try is to list the timeshare in a classified advertisement such as local newspaper or an internet classified website. These websites include eBay, Craigslist, INetGiant, WildfireClassifieds, or NikTrades. The advantage of selling your timeshare on your own is that you do not have to pay commissions and fees. In contrast with working it out with a third party vacation property resale companies, you have to pay an upfront and non-refundable fees regardless of whether the unit sells or for how much.

Another option when you want to sell your timeshare is to hire an agent or broker who can advertise and market your vacation property properly. However, just make sure that it is a reputable company that specializes in selling timeshares as scams are very prevalent in the timeshare industry today. This agent or broker should get the proper exposure for your timeshare. Never agree to anything over the phone who offers to sell your timeshare before you have had time to do some research on the company you are dealing with.

However, before you decide to sell your timeshare, it would be wise to find out how much it is worth on the market today. You can easily do this through an appraisal. This appraisal also helps you find out what the resorts are selling similar vacation properties like yours and to help you with adequately pricing your timeshare. When selling your timeshare, you have a number of options available. But with adequate research, you may have a chance at success.

Transfer Smart News: Vacation Ownership Group Dedicates to Assist Potential Timeshare Owners

2010-07-13T10:32:00.000-07:00

For some timeshare owners, buying such properties is a decision that they have regretted. These owners later realized that timeshares are not for them. There is no doubt that there are a number of disadvantages and complaints regarding such properties. But unfortunately, once the owner decides to get out of his timeshare contract, he can’t do it right away or it takes a longer time to do so. However, there are companies today that assisting potential timeshare and vacation ownership consumers avoid the consequences of buying and selling high-priced timeshare packages being offered in today's unpredictable market. One of these companies is the Vacation Ownership Group.

As V O Group President and CEO Adam Lacerda said, owners and users of timeshare properties are being inundated with offers to buy or sell in resort and vacation destinations around the world. He added that moving through the complex and many times misleading process is complicated and can easily leave people with a product they did not want, or they may have spent more than they could afford. This, along with high-pressured sales tactics, is a common problem in the timeshare market today, and one the V O Group is trained and ready to help you solve.

On the company's website, consumers around the world can contact them and answers to a variety of questions such as the fair market value of the unit, realistic vacation strategies, adding points at wholesale prices, and additional information on any given timeshare issue the customer might have.

Lacerda added that they offer several products designed for the vacation ownership consumer, and the V O Group is currently developing additional services including interactive online classes and webcasts designed to educate the public about the possible pitfalls of purchasing a timeshare. Moreover, he stressed out that they are changing the face of timeshare and vacation ownership.

Transfer Smart News: ARDA Recommends Rent a Timeshare for a Vacation

2010-07-12T22:01:00.000-07:00

As the summer vacation season is fast approaching, many families are looking for budget-friendly travel ideas everywhere. With this, The American Resort Development Association or ARDA has a solution for the budget-conscious, weary traveler. That is, rent a timeshare villa for your next vacation.

According to Howard Nusbaum, ARDA president and CEO, many vacationers don’t yet realize that they can rent a week or two at a fabulous resort and stay in spacious accommodations with one or more bedrooms and bathrooms, a kitchen and a living room – all the comforts of home. He added that while it may be the destination that gets them there, it’s the guarantee of high-quality accommodations that keeps them returning year after year.

Meanwhile, the PriceWaterhouseCoopers research on the state of the timeshare industry in 2009 indicates that nearly half of timeshare purchasers rented first. Among six million-plus timeshare owners, timeshares continue to enjoy an 85% satisfaction rate. As Nusbaum said, timeshare owners place value on having the space to truly rejuvenate – a benefit that comes with a timeshare vacation. And, because of the pre-paid nature of the product, many owners continue to travel despite historic lows in traditional hotel occupancy. For 2009 alone, the timeshare industry reported an occupancy rating of almost 80%.

Today, although there are a number of owners trying to get out of their timeshares, many consumers still avail of such vacationing option through timeshare rentals. As a matter of fact, there are already rental engines created for consumers to take advantage of the convenience of vacationing timeshare-style.

Transfer Smart News: Web Venture Makes Timeshare Rentals Easier

2010-07-10T03:47:00.000-07:00

For many timeshare owners, dates assigned to them are not always convenient, and swapping their units is not easy to do. Aside from the increasing maintenance fees, these might also be the reason why some owners want to get out of their timeshare contracts. This was also the problem of Mike Blackwell, a former timeshare owner, who along with his two friends came up with a solution and, in the process, launched a business to help others with the same problem.

The venture is called Resort Rentals By Owner or RRBO.com, an online marketplace for vacation rentals of timeshares. It was founded by three former CompuServe and AOL executives: Blackwell, who ran AOL Search; Bob Kington, one-time executive producer of CompuServe online service; and Mike Doel, former chief technology officer for CompuServe.

Blackwell, being one of the millions of timeshare owners in the United States, immediately saw the possibilities of an online marketplace where timeshare owners could quickly and easily offer their resort condos for rent in a very hotel-like way. The founders of Resort Rentals cited the example of popular person-to-person commerce sites such as StubHub.com in launching their business. But instead of trafficking in concert tickets, they offer resort timeshare rentals.

The vacation rental website acts as the intermediary in handling the bookings as users go to the website, find the timeshare resorts they like and rent them immediately. According to Blackwell, the owner doesn’t pay to list the rental to them, they just keep 15%. Despite its still-low profile, the company is getting eight to 10 calls a day as Kington said. He added that they’re being conservative with marketing dollars spent right now until they prove market acceptance and get more capital, which will allow them to ramp marketing to levels that are 10 times what they’re spending today.

Transfer Smart News: Owner Gives Advice When Selling a Timeshare

2010-07-08T19:23:00.000-07:00

For most owners, when they think of getting out of their timeshare contracts, the best solution would be to sell it. But several people already testified that selling a timeshare is not an easy task and there’s also a big possibility to get scammed. Take the case of Don Bishop who tried to sell his Mexican timeshare. This Tacoma resident paid a company to get his condo on a listing service and soon after, salespeople are calling with some stinky deals.

According to him, the deal is wilting. As he stated, the whole picture from beginning to end came on to him as a big scam. The salespeople offered him a buyer with $2,500 on the table. They ask him to guarantee that he is going to go through with that by taking his credit card and give them $1,900. For the experts, such sales pitch is considered a serious red flag.

Meanwhile, Douglas Wheeler, an attorney who specializes in timeshare sales and agreements said that the people that are really aggressively beating the bushes right now are typically scammers. His advice if you are looking to dump your timeshare is to list and advertise it yourself. In that way, you can steer clear of extra fees. He added that you're going to spend a few hundred dollars at least to have somebody list it for you and all they may do is put it up on a website. Moreover, he also recommends donating or gifting the timeshare, but don't get desperate. You may have restrictions in your timeshare on what you can do with it and how you have to sell it.

As for Don, he got his money back. But he tells others not to make the same mistake because these scammers are relentless. However, if you are trying to save money, you can try renting out your vacation property. But don't have the resort set it up, you do it.

Smartly Knowing the Evolving Legal Approaches on Timeshares

2010-07-07T18:13:00.000-07:00

As timeshares have become popular when it comes to vacationing, a number of models for handling the legal relationship with such properties have emerged. This is important especially for the owners to avoid future conflicts regarding their timeshare units. When an owner also wants to get out of his timeshare by selling it, he must know the legal agreements with such property in order to have a successful deal. The three most common types of conveyance are the deeded interests, right to use, and leasehold agreements.

With a deeded interest method of conveyance, the purchaser receives a title for the real property that is being purchased from the timeshare developer. The unit owner, in effect, buys the right to use that unit in perpetuity. Like any bought object, it is the owner’s rights to use it in perpetuity. He can sell it on and pocket the proceeds and leave it to others as part of the estate, when the owner dies. In effect, the resort developer just sells the ownership of various time periods for each unit.

Under the right-to-use type of conveyance, it is not associated with deeding of the underlying real property to the purchaser. Instead, the individual is given contractual rights to use the timeshare facilities for a specified period of time. Usually, this would involve the interval purchased, say one week, but for time periods limited in the agreement, say 25 years.

Lastly, a leasehold agreement is similar to a right-to-use contract in that the purchaser holds a leasehold interest or other interest of less than a full ownership interest. This means that the purchaser has the right to inhabit such vacation property for a specified period of time, and at the termination of the lease, the property reverts to the timeshare developer. Usually, the time period concerned is shorter than with a right-to-use agreement.

Transfer Smart News: Timeshare Company’s Expansion Shows Hopeful Signs

2010-07-06T12:29:00.000-07:00

Despite the number of owners today who are trying to get out of their timeshare contracts, some resorts are on their way to expansion. According to the Chamber director, this is a hopeful signs to others. One of these resorts is the Spinnaker Resorts with its contractor which recently celebrated the "topping off" of the new south tower. When complete early next year, the seven-story facility will add 53 more units, bringing the total to 168 units at the timeshare resort at 51 S. Atlantic Ave.

In industry jargon, "topping off" means the last beam getting put in place in the concrete frame and construction starts on the top. According to Charlie Door, a senior vice president for Hardin Construction, they are right on schedule and adding the $11.1 million project is now about 50% complete.

The said project originally was slated to begin in 2006 but it suffered a series of delays. This includes the changes in design, as well as concerns from the state Department of Environmental Protection. Besides the new building, the South Carolina-based Spinnaker is also spending between $5 million and $6 million to renovate the existing tower.

Meanwhile, Mary Rhodes, the executive director of the Ormond Beach Chamber of Commerce, said that the city leaders are happy to see the company went ahead with the project even in the current economic environment. She stated that the construction has kept about 100 people employed on a consistent basis.

On the other hand, the pre-sales of such vacation property will open at the end of July and the beginning of August. Once the project reopens, timeshare owners will notice several major improvements in the resort. That will include the addition of a spa and a larger kiddie pool. At the same time, the sight of construction may inspire others to follow through on growth plans they may have tabled.

Transfer Smart News: BBB warns Timeshare Owners of the Increasing Scams

2010-07-05T22:40:00.000-07:00

These are tough times and plenty of people today are struggling just to make their home mortgage payments. It is also not surprising that many owners nowadays are hoping to cutback on their expenses by getting out of their timeshare contracts. But there’s a recent warning about a scam targeting thousands of timeshare owners across the country.

Take for example the case of Patricia Valdez and Art Heist, timeshare owners facing similar ordeals, and they both say the craziness all started with a phone call and a promise to sell their properties. As heist said, they'd say well, we hear you got a timeshare for sale, we have a buyer for you. Then, they were both asked to do the same thing - give the company the money upfront.

As they were excited about dumping their vacation properties, and the extra expense that came along with them, both Valdez and Heist paid the fees. But after that, they never heard from the companies again and their timeshares were never sold. As they tried to call there, they would not answer the phone. According to Heist, they just took my money and claimed they would sell my timeshare and they haven't done anything.

Meanwhile, the Better Business Bureau says that they were targets of one of the top scams operating in the country. The agency has been flooded with complaints from thousands of timeshare owners across the country with the same statement. They get a phone call from a company with a hard to resist offer promising to get rid of their timeshares immediately or there’s an interested buyer and claiming they can close in 30 days.

Timeshare Resales as a Smart Way to Own a Vacation Property

2010-07-03T03:29:00.000-07:00

These days, the era of timeshare resales has dawned and has started a timeshare renaissance. As there are many owners who are trying to get out of their timeshares and made their units available in the resale market, eager holidaymakers on the other hand have a new, improved and a better way to own such vacation property.

Timeshare resales are old timeshares but not necessarily badly kept ones. For some owners, they have simply outgrown vacationing yearly and want to make a profit off of their old investment. That’s why they made their timeshare for sale.

Timeshare resales cost quite a bit less than buying brand new timeshares. This is simply because a large portion of the cost is intended for advertisement free gifts, etc. that might come with the viewing of the timeshare. On the other hand, timeshare resales don't require quite as much advertisement. After all, they're so cheap that will interest many vacationers. Typically, they end up being half or more of the price than a brand new timeshare. In addition, there's no long presentation to sit through and you don't have to deal with timeshare salesmen or women just to buy it.

There are many ways to acquire a resale timeshare. By spending some amount of time online you will thousands of available units. There are some websites that facilitates listing vacation properties such as timeshares on their online database and enabling potential buyers to view the property. You may have to try and find the deal online. However, just beware of scams when dealing with resellers. Make an effort to know more about the unit that you are interested to buy.

Transfer Smart News: Torrance’s TV Program Features Timeshare Relief

2010-07-01T13:04:00.000-07:00

"We went out on vacation in Las Vegas and were told that by investing in this timeshare, we'd be able to own property that we could sell for a profit." That’s the statement of Mr. MacMillan which begins the segment featuring the Timeshare Relief, Inc. on Torrance CitiCABLE 3. The television program has selected Timeshare Relief, Inc. for a feature entitled "Torrance Company Offers Relief from Time Share Contracts." The segment discussed the company's humble beginnings and current success.

CitiCABLE 3 features the latest news, events, and business-related notices relevant to the Torrance area. Meanwhile, Timeshare Relief, Inc., an Inc. 500 company and twice over recipient of the Best in Torrance Award, offers a reliable timeshare exit solution for owners looking to be rid of timeshare contracts and maintenance fees entirely. It was launched in 2004 by founders Cindy Martin MacMillan and David MacMillan when they struggled to find ways to exit their own timeshare contract due to the heavy financial burdens that came along with it. Upon success, they began the Timeshare Relief, Inc. in order to help others in similar situations.

One of the timeshare owners who sought out the services of the company was Nancy Gruttemeyer. While sick of her increasing payments, Gruttenmeyer sought to rid herself of her timeshare permanently. According to her, what started out as $250 in maintenance fees kept creeping up and creeping up. Soon, she found Timeshare Relief and happily unloaded her life-long contract. Currently, she still continues to enjoy the timeshare experience by renting a Vermont timeshare, a Hawaii timeshare and a Disney timeshare without the trouble of maintenance fees.

With over 50,000 other clients like Gruttemeyer in the US, Canada and UK, Timeshare Relief believe their prospects are looking bright as the report concludes that the company's work has continued to grow, even in this slowing economy. Timeshare Relief is not a timeshare resale company. However, it guarantees their clients a clean exit solution to get out of their timeshare contracts. It has already helped over 50,000 timeshare owners transfer more than 52,000 timeshare contracts.

Transfer Smart Alert: Confessions of Timeshare Scam Victims

2010-06-30T21:57:00.000-07:00

Despite the reported number of owners trying to get out of their timeshares, many holidaymakers are still into such vacation property. A timeshare can be a great way to own your vacation but make sure you don't get ripped off buying it or selling it. This article presents the story of Patricia Valdez and Art Heist who were both victims of the timeshare scam.

As Patricia recalled, they guarantee they will sell your timeshare for you. They'd say well, we hear you got a timeshare for sale, we have a buyer for you. But both Patricia and Art had to do just one thing first. That is to pay. They wouldn't do anything unless you gave them the money upfront. Then, the company promised to sell the timeshare.

As Art explained, they want money up front off a credit card. Both Patricia and Art agreed, because they were excited about the prospect of unloading their timeshares. Such properties had gotten just too expensive with the current state of the economy.

But then, things went wrong, as Patricia stated. After paying upfront, they never heard from them. While attempting to call them, they would not answer the phone. The same thing happened to Art who said, they just took my money and claimed they would sell the timeshare and they haven't done anything.

According to The Better Business Bureau, this is one of the biggest scams operating in the United States right now. As Michael Galvin of BBB said, we're talking millions upon millions of dollars that are being taken from the general public on this scam. Thousands of timeshare owners have already flooded the BBB with complaints regarding scams of such vacation properties and they’re all saying the same thing.

Transfer Smart News: Timeshare Resale Company Launches a Redesigned Website

2010-06-29T19:04:00.000-07:00

These days, many owners want to get out of their timeshare contracts and thus, several resale companies are coming up. In Orlando, Florida, the leading timeshare resale site ExclusiveSales.com recently announced that it has officially launched its completely redesigned website. The web property now offers state-of-the-art technologies for searching available properties with a brand-new, clean look that is easy to read and browse. The new website also offers owners of timeshare properties to connect with potential renters and buyers.

ExclusiveSales.com is a recognized leader in the fast-growing timeshare resale industry. It has built a unique and effective worldwide marketplace that delivers individuals interested in buying or renting vacation properties directly to the sellers. As a result, ExclusiveSales.com's marketplace makes buying and selling timeshares easy. With this website, the buyers/renters and sellers have a direct contact and can negotiate directly a sale or rental of a timeshare. Thus, saving both the buyer/renter and seller money. Moreover, this process has been proven to make buying and selling timeshare properties simple, effective, pressure-free and economically sound.

According to ExclusiveSales.com Director of North American Operations David Inglab, the summer months are exciting for them. Central Florida is populated with hundreds of thousands of vacationers who attend timeshare presentations but do not buy a property. On the other hand, savvy consumers go home, do an internet search, read reviews and make an informed decision. This gives ExclusiveSales.com a key opportunity to place strategic advertisements across the web and traditional media to inform these potential buyers and renters that there are great deals by purchasing direct from distressed owners.

Meanwhile, buyers and renters looking for great vacation deals will find deeply discounted properties in a wide variety of locations all over the world. Take note that resale properties have been sold at as much as 80% off the current resort prices.

Transfer Smart News: Timeshare Marketing in South Carolina Draws Criticism

2010-06-28T21:43:00.000-07:00

For the tourists who will step from the city parking garage on Ann Street, they will find a Charleston "Welcome Center" full of free maps, brochures to area attractions and a smiling staff waiting to answer questions. The center's mission, however, isn't the same as the official Charleston Visitor Center just across the street as the Welcome Center is run by Asheville-based Festiva Hospitality Group and its aim is to sell timeshare vacations.

In recent years, there are already at least eight privately run visitor information centers which have popped up around the Holy City dispensing advice and vouchers in return for a sales pitch for time shares and vacation clubs. Cruise ships aren't also hard to find these days in Charleston, where the pleasure boat industry is expanding. But it's not its presence that everyone is comfortable with. For some critics, too many cruise ships will overwhelm Charleston with traffic and air pollution while ruining the character of a city that thrives on its past.

As the summer is almost here, millions of visitors will soon begin arriving in their community and anxious to enjoy a Grand Strand vacation. In these challenging economic times, the arrival of visitors is a very welcome sign. This is true not just for those who live along the Grand Strand, but for all South Carolinians, as tourism is the economic engine that drives their state's economy.

Despite the threats of the vacation industry nowadays such as the number of owners trying to get out of their timeshares every year and those individuals who even avoid travelling to cutback their spending, visitors inject more than $4.5 billion into the states local economy. They also contribute hundreds of millions of dollars in taxes and fees, which fund infrastructure and services needed by tourists and residents alike, including roads, bridges, schools, law enforcement, cultural programs, beach protection and more.

Transfer Smart News: Orlando Offers a New Attraction for Timeshare Visitors

2010-06-26T07:21:00.000-07:00

In US, Orlando still remains one of the hottest vacation destinations despite the many owners today who are trying to get out of their timeshares and consumers who avoid fractional ownership schemes. Recently, this area offers a new attraction for timeshare owners and timeshare renters. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction at Universal Orlando Resort was opened last June 18th, following a spectacular celebrity preview event last Wednesday evening.

The attraction opened with huge fanfare as fireworks and a light show depicting scenes from the feature films which entertained the crowd and highlighted by the appearance of author and creator J.K. Rowling and Harry Potter himself, Daniel Radcliffe. There was also an appearance of composer John Williams, who wrote the original music for the films and led the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra as they played for the invitation-only group.

The 20 acre, $200 million attraction will feature three themed attractions which are the Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Flight of the Hippogriff and Dragon Challenge. Meanwhile, the Hogwarts Castle, as expected, is the center of the new Harry Potter universe and new technology is the key to the attraction. Universal officials are also banking that guests will be able to experience a taste of the movies while being completely immersed in the experience through new special effects.

However, as the Harry Potter fanatics are looking forward for this new vacation attraction, they are also expected to battle a near-record heat as the heat index broke the 100 degree mark. True fans that have waited years to be able to encounter such an attraction though will no doubt ignore the heat in their excitement.

Transfer Smart News: BBC1 Drops a Probe about a Timeshare Company

2010-06-24T21:50:00.000-07:00

Timeshare companies are regarded as one of the consumers’ cautioned hotlist. For some victims, it’s too late to get out of their timeshares after they found out that they’ve been ripped off. As part of the growing awareness of such timeshare issues, there are already a number of probes launched. But recently, the BBC1 series Rip Off Britain dropped a segment about a timeshare company which has been promoted by presenter Jenny Bond.

According to investigative reporters Andrew Penman and Nick Sommerlad, they have been contacted by dozens of unhappy customers of timeshare giant Club La Costa. Such customers complain about the habit of company telling people they’ve won a free holiday which will include a mammoth timeshare sales pitch. Penman and Sommerlad added that the Independent Timeshare Consumers Association gets on average one complaint a day about CLC. One of CLC's latest victims is Cliff Walker, 48, whose horrible experience provoked him to launch a scathing attack on Jennie Bond, who is the BBC's former royal correspondent.

He was once approached in the street by a Club La Costa rep and asked to fill out a questionnaire to win a free holiday. He was surprised that he’d won and to collect his prize, he had to go to a sales pitch in Leeds, which included a promotional video presented by Jennie Bond. Then, came the prize holiday in Spain where, following relentless selling. Cliff paid £3,595 for three-year CLC membership.

According to Cliff, to call the vacation place a flea-pit would be an understatement. The door was hanging off its hinges, it was infested with cockroaches, the TV didn't work and the toilet seat came off in his hand. On the other hand, a BBC spokesman stated that it is common for various story ideas to be considered for a series of this nature and clearly not everything makes it into the programme.

Transfer Smart News: Online Charity Auctions Connect Timeshare Consumers and Marketers

2010-06-23T17:51:00.000-07:00

Nowadays, it seems like the timeshare industry had been tarnished by a number of reported incidence of scams and fraudulent activities. In addition to this, there are also many owners today who are trying to get out of their timeshares. As a result, consumers have a negative perception of such vacation package. But there are some companies today that bridge the gap between the timeshare providers and the hesitant consumers. One of these companies is BiddingForGood. This leading cause-related e-commerce platform connects consumers and marketers to thousands of trusted nonprofit auctions which delivers qualified vacationers to timeshare resorts.

There are many reasons why do online charity auctions work for timeshares. First, it drives consumers to the property. Online charity auctions have a quality of trial in a trusted consumer environment with high consumer engagement with the resort before visiting it. According to Robin Brown, a nationally recognized hotel executive and real estate developer, the timeshare industry needs trusted marketing channels as the old ways really were not good for the industry and BiddingForGood is a huge marketing opportunity for properties that target affluent families.

The other reason is that it delivers a strong consumer demographic who have financially competed to experience a timeshare property. According to a 2009 ARDA research study, it shows just how important it is to get the vacationers to have a pleasant experience at a resort, showing that 48% of the first time buyers of timeshares had stayed at the resort previously.

Moreover, online charity auctions work for vacation properties particularly timeshares because of its unique channel that reaches affluent consumers through their trusted schools and causes. There are no skeptical guards up when visiting the resort. As stated by Reyna Ann Haseman, Director of Incentives for Premier Cancun Vacations, getting consumers onsite to experience the resort is crucial to them.

Transfer Smart News: Premier Timeshare Brand Launches Points-Based System

2010-06-22T19:36:00.000-07:00

For the recent years, the image of the timeshare industry has been tarnished due to scams and a number of its disadvantages. That’s why many owners today want to get out of their timeshare contracts while several consumers avoid such vacation property. To regain the reputation of such vacation option, some timeshare companies are coming up with new features. One of these is the Marriott Vacation Club, the premier timeshare brand of Marriott International, which recently announced the launching of the points-based Marriott Vacation Club Destinations program in North America and the Caribbean.

With already 25 successful years of innovation, evolution and industry leadership, the Marriott Vacation Club Destinations program offers greater flexibility, further personalization and more experience opportunities for owners. According to Lee Cunningham, the executive vice president and chief operating officer for Marriott Vacation Club, North America and the Caribbean, after a quarter century of providing unforgettable vacations, they are excited to announce the most significant program innovation in history. This is a new product offering that is easy to use and will provide their owners unparalleled flexibility. He added that over the years, they have successfully evolved their product offering based on owner feedback, and the Marriott Vacation Club Destinations program reflects a tradition of owner involvement and was designed specifically for both current and future owners.

As the Marriott Vacation Club Destinations program in North America and the Caribbean will offer this enhanced opportunity to new customers, the current owners will maintain the full rights and privileges of their ownership. Also, existing owners will have the choice to enroll in this new program to further enhance their vacation experience.

Annually, Marriott Vacation Club Destinations owners will receive an allocation of Vacation Club Points to redeem for customized getaway experiences. Moreover, they will also have the ability to bank, borrow, or purchase additional Vacation Club Points each year.

Transfer Smart News: Timeshare Firm in Singapore Faces Court Order

2010-06-21T20:06:00.000-07:00

Scams are everywhere in the timeshare industry nowadays. For the past year, it was identified that those owners who are trying to get out of their timeshares are the usual victims. But any potential owner also is vulnerable to these fraudulent activities as there are a lot of timeshare companies who are involved in misselling practices. Just like the recent case of the Consumers Association of Singapore or CASE which has obtained a court injunction against timeshare firm called the Garraway Enterprises for unfair trading practices.

Since 2007, there are 75 people who have filed complaints against the firm for hard-selling tactics and false and misleading claims. The total contract value of these cases would amount to S$887,000. A number of people complained about being approached on the streets with winning scratch cards and were asked to collect their prizes at the firm's Ngee Ann City office.

Then, these consumers were pressured into signing up for membership which ranges from S$3,650 to as much as S$30,000. They were also promised perks such as an easy access booking system for vacations and discounted flight and hotel fares. However, the court's ruling on May 24 means that Garraway can no longer sell vacation packages to customers by claiming that they would get better deals.

Last year, timeshare companies were listed as the highest number of complaints with 2,523 cases filed with CASE for the sixth consecutive year. With this, it is no doubt that scams are very prevalent in the industry. In fact, these scammers will do everything short of keeping you hostage to try to make you buy. In general, vacation properties like timeshares have certainly a negative impression.

Transfer Smart News: New Timeshare Legislation Pass in Florida

2010-06-18T14:34:00.000-07:00

Today, despite the number of owners trying to get out of their timeshares and several complaints reported regarding such properties, the timeshare industry remains one of the most profitable industries in the US. With this, a number of states want to maintain the appeal of their timeshare industries to potential consumers. One of these states is Florida which recently passed a new legislation that will aid in protecting timeshare owners in a lot of different ways.

The new legislation is called Bill HB 61 which has been set up to exempt timeshare purchasers from many of the fees and charges that go along with switching their timeshare weeks with the other timeshare owners. Due to the changes of the industry guidelines and rules involving taxes on timeshare visits, the developers are also able to add debt cancellation products in their offerings.

Meanwhile, due to the economy it is possible that certain government bodies might want to try and tax timeshare exchanges to earn more revenue. This new Bill will stop these possible taxes dead in their tracks. However, Florida isn’t the first state to implement such timeshare purchaser protection laws. There are actually three states which passed such legislation to deal with this issue.

Florida officials then hope that this Bill will make their state a more appealing place for both resort developers and individuals looking for a place to vacation or own a timeshare. Florida has always been a well known vacation spot and is popular with its timeshare industry. The state wants to remain a hotspot and is hoping that once these new policies come into play, it will aid them in doing so.

Transfer Smart News: New Rental Website Bridges the Gap between Timeshare Owners and Holidaymakers

2010-06-17T18:08:00.000-07:00

We all know that these days, timeshares have become a property that may add to your financial liabilities. With the increasing fees associated with such properties, many owners today are trying to get out of their timeshares and look for alternative ways of vacationing. One of these ways is through timeshare rentals. And to make this easier for consumers, there are a number of websites today that facilitates timeshare rentals. Recently, there’s a new holiday rental website that lets timeshare owners rent unused weeks to holidaymakers searching for resort accommodation.

Holiday Letting Shop or HLS is a new site that bridges the gap between individual timeshare owners as well as resorts with available inventory, and holidaymakers looking for resort-based self-catering accommodation. The website www.holidaylettingshop.com is a live search site with reservations and secured payment facility. Users can also search for specific accommodation by country, region and resort name.

HLS provide a rental valuation of each week in question and this is then listed on the site for holidaymakers to view and book. For timeshare owners who want to rent out their units, they can do so via the website. This facility is an alternative to having to sell timeshare weeks in other ways which is a time consuming process.

On the other hand, resort operators with excess inventory at their resorts can become holiday affiliates and offer their vacation properties via the website. As Sharon Jackson, director of Holiday Letting Shop, said, they believe that HLS offers a real alternative to timeshare owners who are currently thinking of selling their timeshare week because they cannot afford the maintenance charges, finance repayments or for other personal reasons.

Transfer Smart News: BBB Warns about Timeshare Scams in Denver

2010-06-16T14:19:00.000-07:00

Timeshare salesmen often lured potential owners with promises of free meals and other prizes just to sit through a sales pitch. But with so many people in financial trouble these days, a new form of business arise which promises the owners to get out of their timeshare contracts.

For a number of reasons, many people realized that they can no longer afford to hold on to their timeshares. Meanwhile, selling such properties can be a huge problem because fewer people are travelling and have less expendable income. People usually buy when emotions are running high, and then later regret it when reality sets in.

According to Denver Boulder BBB CEO Dale Mingilton, as times change, people are going 'I don't know if I can afford this and so it's that combination of non use and also the cost motivating people to get out. Also with the down economy and people are travelling less, desperation has set in for thousands trying to unload timeshare properties.

On the other hand, the BBB says it's become an open market for companies promising online to put a stop to your next timeshare bill. Mingilton stated that many of these companies will make false promises to convince buyers. But some scams point to reading the fine print on what the BBB calls the shady contracts and offers to take over the deed on what you thought was your vacation paradise with companies that can end up charging you thousands in fees up front. As you sign all these documents, it makes it look like it's official. They take your money but at the end of the day, they never make the transfer. Most of the time, getting a refund is all but impossible.

Smart Online Marketing Tips to Sell Your Unwanted Timeshare

2010-06-15T19:05:00.000-07:00

Timeshare seems to be attractive and a great way to vacation but many owners today already testified that it financially draining in the long run. It was found out that there are several hidden fees associated with such vacation option. Thus, many of the owners today are trying to get out of their timeshares by selling it and internet might be the best place to start with. This article presents a number of online marketing tips in order to sell your unwanted timeshare

First, you should be able to market your timeshares throughout the web to cover a broader audience. This is in terms of millions of traffic or surfers that may bump to your ad and be interested with your timeshare. There are several sites that facilitate timeshare resales. Some of these are free while others come at a certain fee. Try to visit sites like eBay or craiglist.

With this approach, you also simply cut-off the marketing expenses compared to advertising your ad on TV or radio. Take note that online marketing has a competitively low price in terms of advertising or marketing your timeshare that has been for sale in decades. In this way also, you are able to reach a wider audience here and abroad. Remember that there are also many interested buyers outside the country that you have to think of.

Moreover, online advertising or marketing assures you that you deal with straight talk and there are no hidden fees from online advertising or marketing firms. One of the benefits of this method is the fees are clearly stated by those sites which facilitates such service. There are a lot of other benefits of online marketing in selling your vacation property such as timeshare. But those above-mentioned are significant points that you have to consider first.

Transfer Smart News: Court Ruling in Spain Seek Compensation for Timeshare Owners

2010-06-14T09:40:00.000-07:00

Nowadays, it’s a well-known fact that scams are prevalent in the timeshare industry. Along with the crisis-stricken economy, many owners are trying to get out of their timeshare contracts and avoid such vacation property. To protect the consumers, there are some laws being implemented addressing problems within the timeshare industry. Just like in Spain recently which pass a new court ruling against one of the largest timeshare developers in the country for timeshare miss-selling. Meanwhile, this has now started an avalanche of new claims for timeshare compensation and industry experts believe that a meltdown will commence.

The ruling can now be used by European timeshare owners to seek compensation from illegal contracts signed after 1996 in Spain and its territories. It is estimated that up to 400,000 contracts were made illegally after 1996 and industry experts believe that timeshare compensation claims could reach 2,000,000,000 (Billion) Euro.

On the other hand, Magistrate D. Juan Carlos Socorro Marrero has ruled that a timeshare developer in Gran Canaria must pay back double the amount of the timeshare deposit taken within the cooling off period. In a case brought against Anfi Sales SL, the Magistrate commented that the case of paying an advance installment is in opposition to what is dictated in the law 42/1998, article 11, the second section of this mentioned rule permits the acquirer at any time to get back double the stated amount. Anfi Del Mar which is one of the most largest and luxurious timeshare developments in Europe is now set for up to 10,000 new claims for timeshare miss-selling under the 1994 European timeshare directive.
At present, there are more than 200 live claims for timeshare miss-selling against Anfi Del Mar in the Spanish court system and with fresh claims coming in at a rate of 10 a week before this ruling.

Under Spanish law, even if a property is sold, all debts and encumberments are passed to the new owners. So, even if a vacation property like timeshares has changed its ownership, the new owners will still be liable for new compensation claims.

Selling Timeshares Smartly in Today’s Market

2010-06-11T20:05:00.000-07:00

Getting out of a timeshare might have a number of reasons. But generally, most owners find it as a way to unload such financial burden. For some, they simply don’t need such vacation property. Whatever the reasons are, to successfully sell your timeshare, a lot of factors must be considered.

First, take note that the price is the most important factor when selling your timeshare. With thousands of available units in the resale market today, you must set your price to compete with them. Thus, as a seller, you need to determine the right price to attract potential buyers. You have to take note of your location, resort type, age of your timeshare, and amenities when pricing your unit. You need to compare also your prices from other sellers to put your timeshare market amiable with potential buyers.

Next, consider the visibility of your unit available in the resale market. Again, with several competing units, It is better for you to create a profile that will definitely attract potential buyers. Try to post it over your local newspaper or on websites, so long as you reach full potential regarding visibility. Remember that your market is global. Thus, advertise extensively.

Moreover, you can sell your timeshare on your own or you can also get help from companies who specialize in reselling such vacation properties. Of course, these companies come at a price. Just be aware of scams that prevail in the timeshare resale industry today. If you will work it out with such companies, look for the one that will aid you all through out with your sale and it must be legitimate. You can it check it BBB if it is legit or not.

Transfer Smart News: BBB Warns of Recent Timeshare Scams

2010-06-10T21:01:00.000-07:00

While many owners today try to get out of their timeshares, those current owners who still have their units are vulnerable to scams and fraudulent activities. Recently, there's a new warning from the Better Business Bureau about timeshares. Such fraud is targeting thousands of people across the country.

One of the victims is Patricia Valdez who had been trying to get rid of her timeshare. She received a promising phone call guaranteeing to sell her time share for a fee of $1,500. She paid the money and after that, she never heard from them. When she tried to call there, they would not answer the phone.

The Better Business Bureau says this is one of the top scams in the country. According to Michael Galvin of the BBB, millions of dollars are being taken from the general public on this scam. The BBB has been flooded with complaints from thousands of timeshare owners saying they get a phone call from a company with a hard to resist offer promising to sell their timeshare immediately.

Meanwhile, Lisa Ann Schreier, who calls herself the "Time Share Crusader" and writes consumer advocate books said, in these times where people are struggling to make their regular mortgage payments, lots of consumers are cutting back and, so, therefore, they find they're not using their timeshares or they can't afford their mortgage payments and/or annual fees.

On the other hand, the Better Business Bureau says if a company calls you and insists that you pay upfront, it should be a red flag. Also, if you think you've been taken by one of these companies, file a complaint with your states Attorney General. In a tough economy, struggling families look for ways to reduce their expenses and one popular option is to unload their vacation properties such as timeshares so they can recoup their investment and stop paying maintenance fees.

Transfer Smart News: First Bangladesh Resort Joins II Timeshare Exchange Network

2010-06-09T18:25:00.000-07:00

Although many owners try to get out of their timeshares today, there are still several holidaymakers who choose this vacationing option. But for many timeshare owners, one of the great advantages of this is the timeshare exchange. Talking about timeshare exchange, there’s a new resort that should be watched out for Interval International members. Recently, a new Bangladesh timeshare resort called Sea Pearl Beach located on the Bay of Bengal joins II exchange network.

This luxurious brand new resort offers miles of golden beaches along the blue waters of the Bay of Bengal when it opens next autumn. Also, a mix of studios and, one and two-bedroom units with sea views were being built to eco-friendly standards and will offer visitors the best of eco-luxury, Indian-style.

Facilities include a clubhouse, cinema, restaurants offering an eclectic choice of cuisines, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis and a health club. Boat rentals, riding and more local restaurants are close by and the setting is spectacular as the resort is flanked by hillsides and overlooks the coastline and there are some special tourist attractions worth visiting as well.

Joe Hickman, the Interval International’s executive director for Asia Pacific believes the resort will prove a popular choice for members looking for something different. As he said, easily accessible by air and road, they believe Sea Pearl and its spectacular beachfront location will offer their members an appealing new holiday choice.

Moreover, there will be plenty of natural beauty to enjoy in this vacation destination and there are rich offerings for culture vultures, including ancient pagodas, Hindu temples and tribal villages. All of which complement the area’s scenic waterfalls, coral islands and impressive coastline.

Smart Ways to Profit from your Timeshare Unit

2010-06-09T04:17:00.000-07:00

Timeshares are well-known as properties associated with a number of expenses. That’s why many owners try to get out of their timeshare contracts if they are having financial difficulties with it. However, there are some ways to make an income from such property and thus, it will help you pay some of those bills. Many owners today earn from their timeshare by having it rented out. This article presents a number of things to be considered to successfully rent out a timeshare.

First, be aware that timeshares are categorized as deeded or non-deeded. Deeded contracts allow you to own a particular unit with title and full rights. In other word, you have all the rights to whatever you want to do with the property. On the other hand, the non-deeded contracts will only allow you to purchase the right to use the property. Thus, before making a move, make sure you get to review your contract.

Location should be considered also. If you are fortunately situated in a popular location, you have the edge over the others. Also choosing properties that have a lot of usage as this gives your rental offers much flexibility and potential market is expanded.

You must be in a good timing when marketing your timeshare. Renting out your property during off season targets a few consumers only. To make a sale during off season, do plenty of advertising and good marketing ability. Moreover, make sure that your property is ready by the time you have a renter. It would be a great turn-off when you market something that is not ready for those interested renters. And it should have been taken good care of as a suitable place for a vacation.

Transfer Smart News: Timeshare Victims Get Refunds from Bluegreen Corp.

2010-06-07T19:03:00.000-07:00

For the recent years, many complaints were reported regarding the timeshare industry. As a result, several owners want to get out of their timeshare contracts and a number of consumers avoid such vacation option. One of the companies that was reported to have been involved in misspelling practices is Bluegreen Corp. But this Florida-based timeshare company will refund Pennsylvanians who say they were tricked into buying expensive vacations they couldn't take as stated by the attorney general's office. Consumers have until June 24 to get the refund as part of the settlement that ends a lawsuit filed in 2008 against Bluegreen Corp. and its related businesses.

According to Pennsylvania Attorney General Tom Corbett, consumers complained they were unable to use their timeshare and that the company made false promises about when or where consumers could travel and situations where timeshare purchasers did not receive extra services or discounts that were promised during the sales presentation.

Other resorts such as Bluegreen Resorts, Bluegreen Vacations Unlimited Inc. and Great Vacations Destinations Inc., which are all of Boca Raton, Florida were also listed in the lawsuit. Bluegreen owns or manages more than 45 resorts across US including sites in New Orleans, Las Vegas, Orlando and Branson, Mo.

As Stephen Wilke, the company's corporate communications director stated, Bluegreen is very pleased that the matter has been settled. Many of the complaints filed at the office of Attorney General were from consumers who spent $20,000 to $40,000 on vacation packages. The state then expects more than $1 million to be refunded. The settlement also includes cash for those who were promised free gifts, including gas cards, hotel stays and airline tickets.

Transfer Smart News: AG Reaches Settlement Decision for Florida-Based Timeshare Company

2010-06-04T18:11:00.000-07:00

Nowadays, although there are many owners who try to get out of their timeshares and avoid such vacationing option, there are still a number of consumers who have fallen into the trap of timeshare scams and mis-selling practices. One of the companies accused of such practices is Bluegreen Corporation. Three years ago, there were complaints about the company’s alleged use of deceptive contests, misleading sales presentations and improper contracts in the marketing and sale of timeshare vacation packages in Pennsylvania. But recently, the Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection has reached a settlement with this company.

As Attorney General Tom Corbett said, the agreement known as a Consent Decree, resolves a consumer protection lawsuit filed in October 2008 against BlueGreen Corporation, BlueGreen Resorts, BlueGreen Vacations Unlimited, Inc. and Great Vacations Destinations, Inc., which are all located in Boca Raton, Florida.

Corbett also added that as a major part of this settlement, BlueGreen has agreed to cancel contracts and pay refunds to consumers who have filed valid complaints about their timeshare purchases. The complaints include consumers who were unable to use their timeshare, false promises about when or where consumers could travel and situations where timeshare purchasers did not receive extra services or discounts that were promised during the sales presentation.

Corbett noted that the settlement applies to those complaints by Pennsylvania timeshare purchasers that have already been filed with the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General. This is also along with any new complaints filed within the next 30 days.

For those owners who bought timeshares as a vacation option and were deceived about free gifts and prizes have until June 24, 2010 to contact the Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. On the other hand, consumers who have already filed complaints with the Attorney General’s Office, either before or after the initial lawsuit was filed in October 2008, do not need to take any further action to have their claims considered as part of this settlement.

Transfer Smart News: Marriott Announces the Opening of Lakeshore Reserve

2010-06-04T02:57:00.000-07:00

Recently, Marriott Vacation Club which is the premier timeshare brand of Marriott International, Inc., proudly announces the opening of Marriott's Lakeshore Reserve at Grande Lakes in Orlando, Fla. This is located on the pristine grounds of Grande Lakes Orlando, at 11248 Lakeshore Reserve Drive, the resort is the first-ever Marriott Vacation Club property to be co-located with a JW Marriott and The Ritz-Carlton. This shows that this industry is resilient despite the challenges like the number of owners trying to get out of their timeshares and the issue of being profitable amidst the current economy.

The first phase brings on 85 villas to the magnificent 500-acre Grande Lakes campus. Thus, evoking the timeless beauty of the Mediterranean with a blend of Italian and tropical influences. Located steps from the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes and The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, owners and guests is expected to enjoy a combination of impressive campus amenities, including The Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, boutique shopping and exceptional dining.

According to Lee Cunningham, executive vice president and chief operating officer for Marriott Vacation Club, North America and the Caribbean, they are thrilled to open the doors of this stunning new resort in one of Orlando's most prestigious settings. He added that they are constantly striving to meet and exceed their Owner's and guests' expectations believing that Marriott's Lakeshore Reserve will truly impress everyone.

Moreover, Lakeshore Reserve amenities include a stunning main pool with zero-entry, two dueling waterslides and two whirlpool spas; fitness center with full men's and women's locker rooms including sauna and steam rooms; The Marketplace convenience store; Blossoms Pool Bar & Grill offering lunch and dinner daily; tranquil fountains and themed courtyards; covered outdoor living area with views of the main resort pool; and brick-paved promenade from the resort to the adjacent hotels. With these, owners would surely enjoy their stay in this resort during their vacation.

Smart Things to Consider When Buying a Timeshare

2010-06-02T19:31:00.000-07:00

Although many owners are trying to get out of their timeshare today, this vacationing option is still a popular option for many vacationers. But if you’re planning to buy a timeshare, just like any long-term investment, you need to weigh the pros and cons of doing so. Sometimes, the price is not the most important thing to think about. Take the time to not only see the property, but do a tour around the area, making mental notes of what you find.

Something else to consider when looking at timeshares for sale is the person or people who attempt to sell it to you. It is one thing to have a desperate seller as this can be a good thing. As you can get a very good price, most times thousands less than what you'd pay a developer. However, if you have that little voice in the back of your head telling you that something is just not right, then, stop. Just tell them that you'll consider things and give them a date you'll get back to them.

Another thing that you need to take into consideration when dealing with timeshares for sale is the type of timeshare they offer. With several different types like deeded, leased, points, and rotating, you need to see if it fits into your families’ life. There's no sense in opting for a rotating timeshare if the weeks you have available to you don't fit your schedule. If you're looking to rent it out, you'd want to have a deeded or leased timeshare, to take advantage of potential recurring income.

Ultimately when you are considering timeshares for sale, first you need sure that it fits your lifestyle, schedule and family. With this, you can have a clear picture of exactly what you're looking for. Your search will also be made that much easier and at the end of it all, you will have something you can enjoy during your vacation.

Smart Tips When Buying a Disney Timeshare Program

2010-06-01T11:57:00.000-07:00

Although many owners today want to get out of their timeshare contracts, timesharing still remains a popular for several holidaymakers. But timeshare operators are coming up with new innovations to give variety and choices to consumers. One of these is the Disney Vacation Club which is said to be a timeshare program with a twist. Instead of the typical specific vacation week at a particular resort, here, you purchase points. Your points are then used for the accommodations for your vacation.

Several luxury resorts nowadays are available at the Disney theme parks where you can use your points. You can also use these points on a Disney cruise or they can be used at over 500 destinations around the world. There may be some restrictions along with your purchase, but DVC has worked to make things easy for its members.

After you've decided to purchase a DVC membership, you need to decide how many points to purchase. Currently, the smallest number of points that can be purchased is 160 and the maximum is 2,000. If you don't use all of your points in one year, they are transferred to the next or you can borrow points from the coming year for the vacation of a lifetime. Thus, you must consider carefully how you vacation and pick your points based on how you will use them.

However, if you decide that you didn't purchase enough points when you first signed up, it's easy to add on to your Disney Vacation Club membership. Just try to contact DVC and they'll help you add extra points to your membership. But if you're looking to add points to your membership without going directly through DVC, you can purchase points from other members. Try a number of sites online where you can purchase points or even memberships from others.

Smart Facts about Timeshare Weeks

2010-05-31T18:30:00.000-07:00

When you plan to get out of your timeshare by putting it on sale or lease, it is important that you must be familiar with the designated timeshare weeks. We all know that timeshares are divided among different owners and a timeshare week chart is used so that all the owners will have an equal opportunity to use the vacation property.

The term timeshare week basically refers to a specified time wherein the owner is given the exclusive right to use the property for one whole week. For example, if your schedule implies that you can spend time on the property every 2nd week of March annually, then, that is your designated timeshare week.

This ensures that every owner will be given equal rights on the property. This is simply because one timeshare property can be owned by a certain number of people. In order to give them fair access to the property, the duration of stay is divided in weeks. However, the timeshare details and designation of use will vary greatly depending on the vacation property. Some may only be given one week yearly to access the property, while some can spend more than one week per year.

One of these common types of timeshare weeks is called the fixed week. This is technically an appointed week each year wherein the owner has the chance to use such vacation property. The good thing about this setup is the fact that you can rent out your designated week of stay to any vacationer or you can trade it to another owner if you decide not to use it during the allotted period time. Thus, be sure to check your designated timeshare week before deciding to rent or sell your share to ascertain that you will be able to come up with the right price value.

Smart Ways to Exchange Your RCI Timeshare to the Best Resorts in Los Cabos

2010-05-31T04:11:00.000-07:00

Los Cabos is located at the tip of the longest peninsula in the world and considered as one of the best vacation destinations for timeshare owners. Despite the bad reputation of fractional ownership and there are many owners today who are trying to get out of their timeshares, this destination still attracts several holidaymakers every year. Meanwhile, some vacationers can avail this little paradise through timeshare exchange.

Before choosing any specific place in that area to exchange your timeshare, you must decide which place you'll most likely want to visit. Most of the towns offer excellent access to fine dining, fishing, shopping, night life and world class beaches but they are different as night and day. Next, is to determine the best the time of the year to go and not to go. You'll find much greater timeshare exchange availability and some of the best travel bargains in September.

One of the best ways to exchange timeshares is through RCI. As an RCI member, the earlier you bank your week the more trading power you have. If you have a fixed week, just make sure you bank it at least 7 months in advance or more to strengthen your exchange power. On the other hand, if you have a floating or points based timeshare, ask your resort to deposit the most powerful week available. Also, always deposit your next year's week this year if you know you will not be using it at your home resort.

When you decide to spend your vacation in Los Cabos through timeshare exchange, remember that how far in advance you should request depends on many different factors and will differ with each timeshare owner. If you have a very powerful exchanging timeshare and you're requesting shoulder or off season, it's possible you'll be confirmed when you request. Most of the times, there will already be a waiting list to get into the top resorts. So, as a rule of thumb you should request as far in advance as possible.

Smart Reasons Why You Should Stop Your Timeshare Ownership

2010-05-30T03:31:00.000-07:00

For those people who opt for timesharing, they are looking to spend their vacation in luxurious places. One thing also that attracts them is that they are promised that they can save a great amount of money than going on an ordinary holiday club. However, there are also a number of disadvantages that potential owners should be cautious about timeshares. For those current owners these disadvantages could be the reason why they should get out of their timeshares.

First reason is that you might be loaded with your work so you don't have that much time anymore. Also, your children might already be tired of seeing the same place every time and thus, you can no longer maximize the use of your unit. Another one is that you might be sick of paying the increasing maintenance fees, special assessments, and taxes. These fees are not just like any other expenses. These are typically thousands of dollars which you have to pay every year.

Also, you may have gotten frustrated when the listing company you signed up with to sell your property. Considering it is very hard to resell or rent your timeshare, you would want to get rid of your unit as soon as possible. Moreover, you may feel that because you have a timeshare, you are restricted from experiencing other vacation getaways. If you want to enjoy vacation spots other than your vacation property, then your expenses would definitely double. You may also have discovered other options to go on vacation for less without purchasing timeshares and this could be the reason why you get rid of it.

The above points are some of the common reasons how timeshare ownership has turned into a nightmare. Thus, for a number of owners, they want to get rid of their timeshares as soon as possible. Especially with the current economy, most individuals are on a tight budget and should be smart in dealing with their expenses. Having a timeshare property is one of these things that should be dealt smartly.

Smartly Knowing the Real Cost of Timeshare Ownership

2010-05-29T03:26:00.000-07:00

Timeshare ownership can be a way to achieve one’s dream vacation. Many individuals opt for this than any other ways despite the reported number of owners who want to get out of their timeshares. This also gives the owner the opportunity to take a vacation in a different resort every year. The timeshare owners don't really own the said property, but only of share of it. Moreover, they can enjoy a new accommodation for a specific period of time every year.

To understand the timeshare system, let’s have an example. For example, one real estate developer buys a resort of 200 rooms. The year is divided into 52 weeks and then the 200 rooms are multiplied by 52 weeks to get the potential number of customers using this facility during one week. The result is 10,400 potential customers. If 10,000 dollars are charged weekly per room, the developer will earn up to 104,000,000 dollars per year as an initial payment.

The common trap for timeshare owners is the fee charged in the name of the maintenance fund. At the beginning, these charges are kept low. Thus, this gives the owner a sense of contentment and relaxation. Unfortunately, this relaxation and contentment generally vanish after a while, as the maintenance charges go up.

It is said that timeshare ownership gives flexibility to the owner. This helps them to change the location and time period. However, this requires membership of an exchange company and this adds another financial burden which is the membership fee of that exchange company. In addition to this membership fee, an annual fee to maintain this membership is also required to be paid regardless of the fact that this facility has been used or not.

Moreover, timesharing as one of the most popular vacation options have many types of visible and hidden charges which increase its overall cost. This includes initial membership, purchase fee, annual maintenance charges, exchange club fee, additional exchange costs. The accumulation of all these costs makes the timeshare cost bigger than what the owner actually thought.

Transfer Smart News: New Laws in Malta Targets Abusive Timeshare Touts

2010-05-28T03:02:00.000-07:00

For the recent years, the timeshare industry is well-known as a haven of scammers and mis-selling practices. Although most of the victims are owners who want to get out of their timeshares, potential owners are also vulnerable to these fraudulent activities. To battle these problems, new regulations have been passed to the local governments in some countries. For example, in Malta, there’s a new and tough legislation that aims to regulate the timeshare industry which was tabled in the House of Representatives by Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism and MEPA Mario Demarco. The “Timeshare and Timeshare-like Products Promotion – Licensing of OPC Representatives – Regulations of 2010” will see to it that timeshare touts will be fined up to a maximum of €2,300 for each infringement.

As revealed by sister paper Illum, each timeshare company will be required to deposit a guarantee to ensure that timeshare staff behave correctly with tourists, although the bond per timeshare representative has now gone down to €2,500 in the actual regulations from the €3,000. With the new regulation, the Malta Tourism Authority or MTA, which regulates the tourism sector in Malta, will be fining directly the companies found breaking the rules and taking the money out of the deposited bond money.

According to an international timeshare website, the legislation the tourist authorities needed to be able to protect the tourists had been recently passed. Moreover, the MTA was planning to outsource security patrols to police the timeshare touts. The decision to establish a pre-paid deposit by the MTA was described by the website as a clever move designed to enforce the legislation effectively. On the other hand, the timeshare reps were predominantly from the United Kingdom and targeting UK tourists who are on vacation and visit the island for the good weather in Malta as the UK was a main market for Malta.

Transfer Smart News: Mexico Imposes New Timeshare Rules

2010-05-27T02:23:00.000-07:00

The timeshare industry has already been a haven of scams and misselling practices in the recent years. Many consumers are complaining about this especially those owners who are trying to get out of their timeshares as they become the usual victims of such fraudulent activities in this industry. With this, most countries establish new rules regarding timeshare offers. One of these is Mexico. With its Ministry of the Economy, it recently published new information on requirements and regulations for timeshare service providers, and failure to comply with the new rules will result in fines and affect timeshare purchase agreements.

This NOM or Official Mexican Norm which is entitled NOM-029-SCFI-2010, Commercial Practices, Information Requirements for the Rendering of Timeshare Service will perform a number of functions. It will broaden the definition of timeshare service "provider" to make timeshare regulations applicable to any person or entity that periodically offers, provides, and/or sells timeshare services. In the previous timeshare NOM, it applies only to timeshare service providers.

It also recognizes the privacy rights of timeshare consumers, prohibiting the use, sale, or assignment of their information for marketing purposes without their written consent. The new rule will also establish less onerous requirements for terminating a timeshare plan. Moreover, it lessens the burden of guarantees shouldered by providers regarding the performance of obligations under timeshare purchase agreements. The "guaranties" section and the "guaranty of alternate use" provisions of the previous NOM will not be included in the new NOM.

Today, timeshares ownership still remains as one of the most popular vacation option. To protect the consumers from being lured by certain timeshare providers, the new NOM will prohibit providers from using raffles, gifts, prizes, and lodging certificates to offer their services without specifying, in clear and unambiguous terms, the purpose of the corresponding offer. Furthermore, the new NOM establishes several requirements for timeshare sale and presale agreements.

Smart Benefits of Vacation Ownership and Timeshares to Senior Citizens

2010-05-21T12:03:00.000-07:00

Seniors mostly want to enjoy high quality vacations for themselves or with their friends and loved ones. As they are on their golden years, that’s the perfect time for them shine and to share what they have with those dear to their hearts. When it comes to vacationing which most seniors would love to do, it could greatly benefit by having an ownership plan whether vacation ownership or a timeshare. Despite the negative image of these vacation options like the scams and the number of owners trying to get out of their timeshares, these still remain popular among holidaymakers.

With vacation ownership and timeshare, seniors are not sacrificing quality over costs. They get to stay in quality resorts instead of looking for bargain hotels that could cost much higher. They understand the idea of getting the ownership paid off and still having an asset for continual enjoyment that can become part of their estate or sold.

These options are also flexible and offer a variety of travel choices. As we get older, there are some situations that just crop up that require attention like doctor appointments, etc. Such programs do not require the buyer of the vacation to lock in to a specific week for their vacation every year, in a set sized condo, at only one specific resort. Moreover, some seniors are working part-time to keep them active and to supplement income or cover insurance needs. Thus, they need to have flexible vacation planning options.

Meanwhile, seniors are asking for programs which will allow them to be with others on vacation as compared to being by themselves. This includes being with their love ones or family members. Some of the vacation ownership companies have programs that able to arrange group travel. Furthermore, some seniors still look forward to visit someplace special while still alive. Hence, vacation ownership or timesharing can be a way for seniors to make their Golden Years glitter.

Smart Things You Should Watch Out About Scams

2010-05-20T23:11:00.000-07:00

Today, there are lots of scams operating in various ways. These fraudulent activities rise at a tremendous rate because there’s an enormous amount of profit that can be earned in a short span of time. The timeshare industry is not exempted from these with most of the victims are those owners trying to get out of their timeshares. As reported, the timeshare scams have touched the peak in a short interval of time.

This article presents a number of tips and things that you should consider before going into any venture. Remember not to be tempted by high returns. Whether it’s legal or not, just about all investment returns are related to risk. It's best never to put money at high risk that you can't afford to lose.

It is advisable also to consult a third party, like an unconnected broker or financial adviser about any unusual or high-return investment you are considering. It may reduce the risk of being caught out. Don't be fooled into believing that an investment is safe just because someone you know recommended it. Affinity scams, as they called it, are one of the favorite methods used to lure people into Ponzi schemes. It is important to examine the track record of the individual or organization. Beware also of vague and unsubstantiated statements, both about the financial performance of the business and the actual investment strategy.

More importantly, get as much information as possible in writing. This includes the details of the offer, names of validating organizations, the organization's own research documentation, and copies of any contracts you will be asked to sign.

Scams are very rampant these days whether in the vacation industry or any other sector. However, it is your duty to be informed about such operations before you might get caught. The above-mentioned points may serve as your guide to be aware of such things.

Transfer Smart News: RCI Adds New Resort to Their Network

2010-05-19T16:06:00.000-07:00

As the economy is heading towards full recovery, the timeshare industry is again flourishing as evident with the new timeshare resorts. Despite the challenges faced by this industry for past two years like the number of owners trying to get out of their timeshares and how to boost sales, this industry showed resiliency. Recently, RCI announced that Branson’s Nantucket Resort in Branson, Mo., has affiliated with their network. RCI is considered the worldwide leader in vacation exchange. As part of this affiliation, Branson’s Nantucket plans to offer its owners RCI Points PlatinumSM membership. This is a new premium membership and enhancement to the RCI Points program which is currently under development. This will also offer exclusive exchange and lifestyle benefits to subscribing members.

According to Gordon Gurnik, president of RCI North America, we are very pleased to welcome Branson’s Nantucket into the RCI network. He added that as Branson is a national destination that offers fantastic vacation experiences, this beautiful resort is a tremendous addition to their collection of top vacation options that they offer to their RCI subscribing members.

Branson’s Nantucket is a lakefront resort offering outstanding views of Table Rock Lake. All homes are Nantucket-themed with two-, three- and five-bedroom options that can sleep up to 14 people. This is located only minutes from the “Branson Strip,” and each fully-equipped home offers gourmet kitchens, washers and dryers and living rooms that include fireplaces and plasma TVs.

Meanwhile, as Richard C. Huebner, vice president of sales and marketing of Branson’s Nantucket said, RCI invented the timeshare exchange business over 35 years ago and has been the innovator and leader ever since. Their diverse selection of resorts the world over deliver high quality vacations to their members. He stressed out that being associated with RCI was important to Branson’s Nantucket. Furthermore, RCI also offers exciting technological resources and marketing advantages for them as well as a large selection of vacation resorts for their timeshare owners.

Transfer Smart Outlook: Are Timeshare Bargains Really Bargains?

2010-05-18T16:26:00.000-07:00

Historically, timeshares, where owners are deeded a small portion of a resort property used for vacationing are considered lousy purchase. Just like a new car, they lose value when you drive it off the lot. You also have to pay upfront for future use. Moreover, you have to pay maintenance fees and your exchange value diminishes as the fickle public wants to stay in newer and newer resorts. For these reasons, many owners want to get out of their timeshares. But according to American Resort Development Association, there are still 4.5 million households who have bought one or more weeks in one of the top 1,600 timeshare resorts.

Nowadays, people are practically being paid to take a timeshare week off someone's hands. Just look on eBay and you'll find auctions on timeshares for $1. But as much as those deals look like absolute steals, that doesn't mean that now is the perfect time to buy a timeshare. In fact, if a timeshare didn't make sense as an investment before the real estate market flat-lined, it is still the same now.

The truth is, people have been walking away from timeshares since the point that they got home from one of those high-pressure sales pitches. That's in part because of how timeshares are marketed and sold. If the only way you can afford to take that Maui helicopter ride is to listen to a timeshare presentation, the chances are you have no business buying your lifetime vacation week. Timeshares are also sold by volume. According to industry experts, for every 100 people in the room, 10 sales are closed.

So, with the previous economic meltdown that we experienced for the previous two years, more people than ever before are trying to get rid of their timeshares and that is not exactly a huge surprise. Consequently, the units available in the market are getting cheaper and cheaper. Now, the question is, does that make those timeshares any better an investment? No, it doesn't. Although it may make them a slightly cheaper bad investment, if that's what you want.

Transfer Smart News: Fractional Real Estate Competes with Timeshares in British Columbia

2010-05-17T13:20:00.000-07:00

The previous two years have been hard for almost all businesses. The timeshare industry is not exempted from this with its sales decreasing while the number of owners trying to get out of their timeshares is increasing. But today, the fractional real estate challenges timeshare dominance in British Columbia's Columbia Valley which is an area that has traditionally been a popular timeshare destination.

According to a report, The Residences at Fairmont Ridge recently released a new form of ownership in Columbia Valley for town houses that are part of the proposed redevelopment of Fairmont Hot Springs. In a move to directly compete with timeshare offerings that are common in the area, the Marble Ridge Developments is now offering deeded 1/16th fractional ownership options for CAN$38,900.

As Tim Tourond of Marble Ridge Developments said, timeshare product has remained the competitive choice in the Columbia Valley due to its low cost and flexible exchange programmes. But with the new fractional offering, owning a second home becomes a smarter choice and significantly easier. And in these times, ease and value mean everything.

The Residences at Fairmont Ridge offers their buyers to get three weeks of use a year. That’s two weeks of standard rotation and a Summer Plus programme that is unique to The Residences. Like all purchases, the owners are also part of the RCI exchange programme. The said programme was created to ensure that fractional buyers receive ideal weeks, as opposed to its vacation option counterpart which is the traditional timeshare or fractional rotation that doesn't guarantee those times of the year.

Transfer Smart News: Buyatimeshare.com Work with a Foundation for a Timeshare Donation Program

2010-05-14T11:06:00.000-07:00

During the previous two years’ economic meltdown, most timeshare-related companies faced a number of challenges like the issue of sales and how to minimize the number of current owners who are trying to get out of their timeshares. However, in the late of 2009, one company called Buyatimeshare.com still managed to work with Defeat Diabetes Foundation for a timeshare donation program. It is said that an estimated over 20 million Americans suffer from Diabetes and the program benefited them.

In 1990, Andy Mandell and his brother Jerry co-founded the Defeat Diabetes Foundation. Andy who after being diagnosed with Diabetes in 1985 was faced with a choice whether to make drastic health changes or die. Through his aggressive self management and sound advice from a group of specialists, Andy began to rebound. He then launched an internet site called Defeatdiabetes.org. Since then, he has been educating the public about diabetes through The Defeat Diabetes internet website and through public appearances.

As the research says, any form of on-line support to a diabetic will result in better management of critical parameters to prevent future complications. This is particularly useful and relevant for those professionals who are high-risk for diabetes because of the lack of balance between work and life. Also, many people are unable to keep pace with doctor’s appointments and monitoring their illness.

According to Peter Emery, Director of Sales for Buyatimeshare.com, when Andy Mandell contacted Buyatimeshare.com asking for help, it seemed like a perfect fit because his father who already passed away was also a diabetes victim. The said vacation-related company has raised more than $5000.00 since the inception of the timeshare donation program.

Transfer Smart News: New Website Provides Legal Assistance to Timeshare Victims

2010-05-13T12:55:00.000-07:00

The timeshare industry is considered as one of the fastest growing industries today. As a matter of fact, it is a 9.7 billion dollar a year industry. However, due to some of its advantages, scams, and misselling practices, it is seen by many in a very negative light. These also drive a number of current owners to get out of their timeshares. But as the malpractices and scams in this industry are rising, a number of companies arise to address such problem. One of these is the recently launched website called MyTimeShareAttorney.com. This website provides timeshare victims who feel they were misled or coerced in the sales process with resources and information to assist them in cancelling their timeshare.

Most people have no idea how much has gone into the timeshare sales process to ensure they are on the hook for a new timeshare before leaving their presentation. All contingencies have been thought through, from escalating offers to staff members entertaining potential purchaser’s children. They want to avoid all distractions so they can focus on closing the deal.

According to Attorney Susan Budowski, while there are certainly timeshare companies that operate in a professional manner, the majority of timeshare owners she had come in contact with are so distraught over their purchase and they feel violated. Thus, Ms. Budowski wants people to arm themselves with information so they are prepared in case they find themselves in a timeshare sales scenario.

She added that these unscrupulous companies have turned one of life’s most coveted experiences, a vacation, into a nightmare. As Ms. Budowski advises, if you are considering a timeshare as your vacation accommodation option, do not make a decision on the same day. Remember that there will always be another deal.