Should you buy a timeshare directly from the developer or from a current owner on the resale market? Both options can give you access to similar villas and resorts, but the price, perks, and buying process can differ. We’ll explain how the timeshare secondary market works, compare new and resale purchases side by side, and help you decide which fits your vacation plans.
What Is the Timeshare Secondary Market?
The timeshare secondary market, also called the resale market, is where current owners sell timeshares they no longer use. The “primary” market is the developer selling new ownerships, usually through a sales presentation. On the secondary market, you’re buying an existing week or points package from an owner, and it’s transferred into your name.
Owners sell for many reasons, from changing travel plans to inherited ownerships, so the secondary market includes weeks and points from many brands, resorts, and seasons. For the step-by-step, see how buying a timeshare resale works.
New Vs. Resale: How They Compare
| Buying new (developer) | Buying resale (secondary market) | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Developer pricing | Generally well below developer prices for similar ownerships |
| How you buy | Usually a sales presentation | Browse ads and make an offer on your own time |
| Brand perks | Full program benefits, and sometimes purchase incentives | Some perks or programs may not transfer, depending on the brand |
| Choice | The developer’s current inventory | Many brands, resorts, and seasons, depending on what owners are selling |
| Financing | Developer financing is often offered | Third-party lenders, such as Vacation Club Loans |
| Closing | Handled by the developer | A licensed closing company; the developer may have a right of first refusal |
| Maintenance fees | Same | Same |
When Buying New Makes Sense
- You want every perk the brand offers, such as elite or loyalty tiers that may not transfer to resale buyers
- The resort you want is new, and resale ownerships there are hard to find
- You prefer developer financing or the developer’s purchase incentives
When Resale Makes Sense
- You know the brand or resort you want, and the perks that matter to you transfer to resale buyers
- You’d rather pay less upfront and skip the sales presentation
- You already own and want to add points, a bigger unit, or another week
What You May Give Up by Buying Resale
Perks are the biggest trade-off when you buy resale. Depending on the brand, you may not get loyalty-tier benefits, full access to its internal exchange program, or certain member discounts. These rules vary by brand and can change, so check the brand’s current resale policy before making an offer. See what may not transfer to a resale buyer.
Buying Safely on the Secondary Market
- Use escrow and a licensed closing company. Never wire money directly to a seller.
- Be wary of surprise calls offering deals you didn’t ask about or claiming to have a buyer for your timeshare.
- Never stop paying maintenance fees on a timeshare you own because someone tells you to. Here’s what happens if you stop paying.
Check companies at ResponsibleExit.com, and see common timeshare resale scams.
Selling on the Secondary Market
Owners on the other side advertise their timeshares, set their asking price, and choose an offer. If that sounds like you, here’s how to sell a timeshare.
Secondary Market FAQs
Ready to Browse the Secondary Market
Browse timeshare resales by brand, destination, and season, or rent a timeshare first to try a resort. We’ve helped owners and buyers for 30+ years, and we’re a Featured Reseller for ARDA’s Coalition for Responsible Exit. Questions? Call 1-855-291-6327 or email [email protected].
