Timeshare presentations are a common part of the vacation experience at many popular resorts. Developers often offer incentives, such as discounted stays, gifts, or other perks, in exchange for attending a presentation. While these offers can be appealing, it’s important to know what to expect before you attend. Keep reading to learn how timeshare presentations work and discover helpful tips for making the most of your experience.
What is a Timeshare?
Simply put, timeshares (also known as vacation ownership) are arrangements where people own the right to use a shared property for a designated period of time. Usually one or two weeks per year. Nowadays, many timeshares are bought and sold in the form of points. The points then translate to different sizes of timeshare suites, different locations and resorts.
Many families love their timeshare because it guarantees their vacation time every single year. Not to mention, some of the best timeshare resorts offer luxurious amenities and spacious accommodations. To buy a timeshare, many people will attend a timeshare presentation to learn more about the benefits of ownership. The sales representative will also help determine if ownership is right for you.
Are Timeshare Presentations Worth It?
A lot of timeshare presentations offer discounts on resort stays, free weekend trips, shows to events, or even free gifts. While these are great incentives to attend, you may be wondering if going is worth it. Before heading to your presentation, make sure you clearly define what you want out of your vacations. Decide your budget, as well as if you want to travel every year or every other year, where you want to go, and how many rooms you want. Clarifying your vacation goals will help you make the most of your presentation. It’s totally up to you whether or not going to one is worth it.
How Long Do They Last?
Before you attend, make sure you know the time allotted for the timeshare presentation. It’s easy to call ahead and double-check on the time frame or look online. The standard is 90-minutes. It’s hard to say for sure how long any specific presentation will last, so calling ahead is the best way to make sure it fits into your schedule!
Can I Buy a Timeshare Without Attending a Presentation?
Yes, you can buy a timeshare without sitting through a traditional timeshare presentation. Buying a timeshare on the resale market gives you the freedom to explore available options on your own time. Instead of making a purchase during a resort presentation, you can compare different resorts, ownership options, prices, and locations before deciding what works best for you.
The resale market can also offer timeshares at a great price. Many resale advertisements are available for significantly less than what you might see through a developer. This gives you more time to research your options and find an ownership that fits your vacation plans and budget.
If you’re considering timeshare ownership, browsing the resale market can be a great way to shop on your own terms. You can take your time, compare your options, and make a decision when you feel confident in your choice.
Timeshare Presentation Tips
If you plan to attend a presentation, it’s important to prepare questions you have, especially if you are interested in buying a timeshare. Even if you’re not convinced you’re ready to buy a timeshare yet, a presentation is a perfect opportunity to have your burning questions answered. If you’ve ever wondered about timeshares, you can ask your representative to break them down for you.
As we mentioned before, knowing what you want will make your timeshare presentation work in your favor. You may have heard timeshare presentations are scary or scammy, but the more prepared you are, the more it will feel like an open conversation and less like a presentation altogether.
If you go into a presentation looking to just get your free gifts, make sure you stay firm in your decision to not buy a timeshare. If a representative changes your mind during the presentation, it’s okay if you tell them you need more time to think about it. Chances are, “today only” offers will still be available in a couple days. You may also want to go home afterward to do some more research, and that is okay! You do not need to buy a timeshare during your presentation if you have not had the time to weigh out the pros and cons. There are many great reasons why people buy timeshares, but making a big financial decision shouldn’t be done in any rush.
How To Get Out Of A Timeshare Presentation
If you find yourself with an invitation to a presentation you don’t want to go to, let your resort know. Simply being honest is the best way to get out of a timeshare presentation. Similarly as above, knowing and defining your goals early on will help you be a stronger advocate for yourself when the time comes. If you do decide to head out of a presentation early or cancel before attending, consult with the resort about the gifts you were hoping to secure. Oftentimes, the free trips and events offered to those who go to presentations won’t hold up if you don’t actually go to or finish the presentation.
How to End A Timeshare Presentation
Many new vacationers wonder, “Do you have to stay for the entire timeshare presentation?” The answer is simple! No, you don’t. Receiving the gifts offered at a presentation may be contingent on you staying for the entire time, but anything that makes you uncomfortable or unhappy is not worth a gift, or your time. If at any time during your presentation you feel uncomfortable or feel that the timeshare isn’t for you, feel free and confident to let your agent representative know.
Buy A Timeshare Resale
Obviously, most timeshare presentations aren’t meant to make you feel trapped or like you need to have a survival guide. You can definitely find legitimate deals that follow through on great vacation experiences. You just have to be smart about the sales tactics. There may be times where you feel confused or unsure, but make sure to take your time and get the best deal possible. You won’t regret it!
We recommend searching the timeshare resale market to find a timeshare in the comfort of your home, and oftentimes, at a lower price. We also have a helpful guide available to download. The Ultimate Timeshare Buyer’s Guide can answer any of your timeshare-related questions.
And, if you’re still considering buying a timeshare, browse our timeshare resales available. We recommend you also check out our timeshare rentals available, so you can try before you buy! You can make an offer online, or call us at 1-800-610-2734.
