If you like to spend lavishly and holiday in style, without the added stress of finding the perfect hotel or rented condo, then time sharing is certainly an option worth considering. There are well over 8,000 time-share resorts the world over, the vast majority of which can be found in the U.S. In fact, U.S. based time-share properties account for nearly 50% of the world’s total.
The idea is genius, and extremely rewarding if handled astutely. It is essentially your own holiday home that can be resold, rented out, exchanged or bequeathed, usually at a given time of year. Those who do their research properly can potentially earn up to treble, or sometimes stacks more than what they originally paid for the property. Others, after the initial investment, end up finding themselves in a bit of a financial pickle. The secret is knowing what to look for and when and where to invest, via means of shrewd, cautious and intelligent research – not a skimpily delivered 90-minute sales pitch in the middle of a hotel lobby.
If you are one of the unfortunate souls to have found your way into the aforementioned financial pickle then a lesson on Resort Management Association may be just what you’re looking for. For anyone looking to enter the market, here are a few suggestions on where to look:
Hawaii, U.S
The far-flung U.S. state is awash with spectacular time-share properties, many of which are among some of the top-rated in the world. Lahaina, Maui offers a range of luxury, oceanfront properties, that can be rented for anything between $150 and $1000 per night, while the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Honolulu is a destination unto itself, providing guests with spacious, cozy studio apartments with all the trimmings. Properties can be rented at around $139 to $685 per night, and bought for anywhere between $2,000 – $250,000.
Florida, U.S.
If you want something for the whole family, look no further than The Orange County. Florida, needless to say, is home to Disneyworld, and the list of time-share properties available to buyers appears endless. Disney’s Beach Club Villas are within walking distance of Epcot and a mere boat ride from the other resorts, whereas Disney’s Boardwalk Villas focus more on the charm of old Americana. Further down the coast at Palm Beach Shores, Marriot’s Ocean Pointe offers respite from the crowds but still affords a vast scope of family oriented activities. The cost of renting one of these properties typically varies from $130 – $800, and resale prices currently vary between $75 and $30,000.
Cancun, Mexico
In contrast to Florida, Cancun is home to time-share resorts that can suit just about anyone’s tastes. Whether it’s a family vacation, a romantic getaway or party-fuelled jaunt with friends, Cancun has it all. A week at The Royal Sands is likened to a week in Paradise with its capacious and deluxe living areas and all-encompassing list of on-site facilities. Price per night: $60-$700. Current resale bracket: $4,000 – $75,000.
Aruba, The Caribbean
The Dutch island of Aruba is a utopia for any holidaymaker. Its pearly white beaches, glassy turquoise waters, and range of available activities, such as surfing, sailing, and fishing all but guarantee a perfect holiday, each time you go. Popular resorts, which are all in league with each other in terms of the luxury and high-quality amenities on offer, include Marriot’s Aruba Ocean Club and Playa Linda Beach Resort, both in Palm Beach, and Costa Linda Beach Resort further south in the island’s capital, Oranjestad. Guests can typically expect to pay $120 – $1,200 per night, or buy at $1,300 – $35,000.
Colorado, U.S.
If you’re more of an thrill-seeker then investing in a Colorado based will surely be money well spent. Unsurpassable skiing and snowboarding conditions spoil the state each winter while during the rest of the year the absence of snow only serves to reveal the extensive wilderness. Aspen, Avon, Breckenridge and Winter Park are home to some stunningly beautiful properties that can be rented for anywhere between $150 – $1,500 per night, or procured at a resale price of $2,500. The most expensive typically fetch around $500,000.
Time-sharing isn’t for everyone, but for those who enjoy a good splurge, it’s a surefire way to ensure an unforgettable vacation in the most sumptuous of styles. Just remember to do your homework before parting with your cash!