How to Find Resale Timeshare Bargains

By eHow Travel Editor

Look into a vacation ownership resale when you decide to purchase a timeshare property. These purchases net buyers considerable savings over the original cost. In some cases, the original owner has outgrown the property or fallen in love with a different vacation destination. Some timeshare resales are marketed due to divorce or to settle an estate. Whatever the seller's reason, the buyer benefits from the bargain price.


Step 1:
Prepare a list of desired amenities, payments terms and locations that you find attractive. Remember, some timeshare properties offer flexible booking, while others limit members' visits to specific weeks of the year. This factor can reduce or increase the value of your purchase, at the right time.

Step 2:
Check directly with the sales office of major vacation ownership resorts and inquire about resale properties. Find out if they advertise these sales themselves or assist the owners with the resales of resort properties.

Step 3:
Visit the websites of reputable national realty companies that handle timeshares, such as GMAC. Browse through the available listing and take note of price differentials by size, location, season and amenities.

Step 4:
Head to Red Week's website to view timeshare resales and to get tips on buying resale vacation timeshare properties. Note any usage restrictions and blackout dates associated with the resale. View owner ratings there for many properties.

Step 5:
Review advertisements for timeshare sales ads in major national newspaper classifieds. The travel section of your local newspaper often carries timeshare sales advertisements, as well.

Step 6:
Contact these companies that list timeshares in your desired locations after researching them. Compare their available resale properties by location and season.