Every industry has some sort of trade association that advocates for legislation, consumers, and professionals. For timeshare, that is ARDA, otherwise known as the American Resort Development Association. ARDA represents vacation ownership as well as resort developers. They promote advocacy, networking, B2B partnerships, and industry resources. As a timeshare owner, you should also know how the association benefits you.
What is ARDA?
ARDA stands for the American Resort Development Association. The birth of timeshare brought many changes to the way people vacation forever, but it was also unregulated. Pioneers of vacation ownership came together in 1989 and began the American Land Development Association. Their mission was to protect consumers while also allowing legitimate industry players to prosper. It’s no secret that timeshare caught a bad reputation, and today ARDA continues to re-write the story.
If you are a timeshare owner, it’s very likely that your developer is a member of ARDA. Every ARDA member must agree to follow their strict Code of Ethics, which was established in the 1980s. The Code includes general conduct requirements, as well as standards for disclosure, resort management rules, guidelines for resale companies, and more.
Participating Members:
- Wyndham Destinations
- Marriott Vacation Club
- Disney Vacation Club
- Hilton Grand Vacations
- Hyatt Residence Club
- Breckenridge Grand Vacations
- Bluegreen Vacations
- Welk Resorts
- Exploria
- Diamond Resorts
- Vistana Signature Experiences
- Holiday Inn Club Vacations
- RCI
- Interval International
- Timeshares Only!
ARDA-ROC
ARDA-ROC is sponsored by ARDA and stands for ARDA Resort Owners Coalition. It is the go-to resource for owners and also the first line of defense against legislation that could negatively impact owners and their well-being. Over one million owners around the country contribute to lobbying as well as advocation efforts. In fact, part of your timeshare maintenance fees supports ARDA and ARDA-ROC.
Coalition for Responsible Exit
In the last decade, the timeshare industry has grown year-over-year to new heights. Timeshare is not just a product, it is a vacation lifestyle that benefits millions of families. After all, most of our most cherished memories and bonding experiences happen over vacation. Timeshare is made to be a life-long product, however, life happens and things can change. Although over 85% of owners love their timeshare, some people have to find a way out. Whether it’s for financial hardship or a change in lifestyle, there should be a solution for owners in need of a safe exit.
Read More: AIF State of the Vacation Timeshare Industry Reveals Growth
Because of this need and a small secondary market, timeshare exit companies and cancellation attorneys have been able to misguide many owners. With promises to get you out risk-free and a 100% money-back guarantee, fraud has run rampant in the industry. Many of these companies are not members of ARDA and do not follow ARDA’s Code of Ethics. If you are curious about the misinformation these companies put out there, and how they are harming owners, check out our series of Timeshare Wins Against Exit Companies.
This growing issue motivated ARDA to start the Coalition for Responsible Exit. If you are looking to get out of your timeshare, ResponsibleExit.com should be your first resource. Many ARDA members also participate in the coalition. One of the main requirements of participation is for developers to offer legitimate and safe exit solutions for their owners. The Coalition for Responsible Exit keeps tabs on legislative action, scams, as well as industry news.
ARDA World
Every year, members of ARDA and key players of the industry get together to celebrate big wins, have educational panels, and discuss pressing matters. The event helps bridge the gap between the primary and secondary markets, as well as offer networking opportunities for professionals. There are several groups within the organization that also aid in networking and building relationships. Recently, the Timeshare Young Professionals Group (TYPG) has kick-started networking events and conferences to provide mentorship for “green” professionals. ARDA-WIN members also gather at this event, for Women in the Industry.
Take a look at the ARDA World Recap from 2019.
