Buying a timeshare is a big decision, whether you buy new from a developer or resale from a current owner. Before you sign, take time to understand the full cost, ask the right questions, and learn how to protect yourself. Here’s where to start.
The Full Cost of Buying a Timeshare
The purchase price is only part of what you’ll pay. According to ARDA’s 2026 report, the average U.S. timeshare transaction price was $24,740 in 2025. Annual maintenance fees averaged $1,550 per weekly interval or equivalent, excluding taxes and special assessments. Resale prices are generally much lower than developer prices for similar ownerships.
When planning your budget, include:
- The purchase price, whether you buy new or resale
- Closing costs, including fees for the closing company, escrow, and recording
- Annual maintenance fees, for each year you own the timeshare
- Special assessments, which some resorts charge to cover major repairs
- Financing costs, if you take out a loan
- Exchange membership fees, if you join RCI or Interval International
For more on price ranges, see how much is a timeshare.
Closing Costs: What They Cover and Who Pays
Closing helps ensure the ownership transfers safely and legally. Costs generally cover the closing company’s services, deed and document preparation, escrow, recording fees, and an estoppel certificate from the resort. Escrow holds the purchase funds during the transfer, while the estoppel certificate shows any fees owed on the ownership.
The buyer usually pays closing costs unless both parties agree otherwise. You may be able to handle the closing yourself, but most buyers use a licensed closing company to manage the contracts, deed, and any required developer review. Learn more about deed changes, title services, and the closing process.
Plan for Maintenance Fees Every Year
Maintenance fees keep your resort running, covering staff, housekeeping, landscaping, repairs, and insurance. Property taxes may be included or billed separately. ARDA’s 2026 report puts the 2025 average annual fee at $1,550 per weekly interval or equivalent, excluding taxes and special assessments.
Fees generally rise over time, and buying resale doesn’t lower the fees for that ownership. You still owe them even in years you don’t travel. Before buying, ask for the current fee and its history. Learn more about timeshare maintenance fees.
Questions to Ask Before You Buy
- What are this year’s maintenance fees, and how have they changed over the last few years?
- Are any special assessments planned or unpaid?
- Is it a deeded ownership or a right-to-use contract? If right-to-use, when does it end?
- Is it a fixed week, a floating week, or points? Which season, and how often can I use it?
- How far ahead do owners book, and how hard is it to get popular dates?
- Which exchange company is the resort affiliated with, and what does membership cost?
- If I buy resale, which brand perks transfer to me?
- Does the developer have a right of first refusal on resales?
- Who handles the closing, and will my money be held in escrow?
Timeshare Buying Tips
- Rent first. Stay at the resort or brand before you buy. Browse timeshare rentals by owner.
- Buy for the vacations, not as an investment. Timeshares generally don’t increase in value.
- Compare similar ownerships. Look at what comparable weeks or points sell for before you make an offer.
- Get everything in writing, including what’s included and what transfers.
- Use escrow and a licensed closing company. Never wire money directly to a seller.
- New purchase? Know your cancellation window. Many states give buyers a short rescission period after signing; check your contract for the deadline.
New or Resale?
Buying new or resale can give you access to similar villas and resorts. Resale generally costs less upfront, while buying from the developer may include additional perks, depending on the brand and ownership. Compare the two side by side in the timeshare secondary market: should you buy new or resale?, then see how buying a timeshare resale works.
Before You Buy: FAQs
Ready to Start Looking?
Browse timeshares for sale by owner by brand, destination, and season, or learn how buying a timeshare resale works with Timeshares Only. Questions? Call 1-855-291-6327 or email [email protected].
