how to avoid a timeshare presentation

How to Survive a Timeshare Presentation: Tips you Need to Know

• Post author: Scott Fix
• Post published:
• Post category: Couple Travel / Travel Tips

You are here because you want to know how to survive a timeshare presentation. How do I end the sales pitch? How do I resist timeshare sales tricks and just say “no”? After going through the process ourselves and chatting with a sales insider, we are here to share what we have learned. Read on for all you need to know to escape the formidable high-pressure timeshare pitch.

What’s the Deal with Timeshare Presentations? 

Everybody knows the classic “high-pressure timeshare sales pitch”.  You get offered 3 days and 2 nights at a fabulous resort for free, no obligations – you just have to attend a sales presentation.  They promise the pitch will be pretty short and that there’s no obligation to buy.  Sounds great, right?  But we all know the catch – it’s infamous.  The timeshare presentation is excruciatingly long.  Every time you think you’ve said “no” for the last time, they bring in a new salesperson or take you to a new room to start pitching you all over again.  It’s a high-pressure sales marathon.  To top it all off, if you don’t meet your obligated time at the presentation, you’re on the hook to pay for your accommodations.  So why do people still go to these things?  Well, because a free “3 days and 2 nights” at a resort is just too good of a deal to pass up sometimes! In fact, many travelers are trying to find out “How can I attend a timeshare presentation just for the free vacation?”   Well, we wanted to see what all the hype was about. When we got a call saying we’d “won” a vacation package, we shrugged and signed up.  Worst case scenario, we walk out and have to pay for the hotel stay.  

When we started asking around, so many of our close friends had either fallen for the timeshare pitch themselves, or knew a family member that had. We heard story, after story, of high-pressure pitches, salesmen that were insulting or rude, being led between rooms for hours upon hours, etc.  Hearing stories of people so close to us motivated us to write up everything we learned from our experience. 

The Initial Screening 

Cecilia signed up for a “contest” on Facebook that would enter you into a “drawing” for a free stay of 3 days and 2 nights at a resort and a $150 gift card.  We got a phone call saying we’d “won” while we were driving.  

We were asked some basic “info” questions (i.e., name, phone, address), followed by some “survey” questions.  The survey questions were things like:

When was the last vacation you took?

How much did you spend on accommodations?

How often do you travel?   

They also asked us if we only needed a reservation for 2, or if we’d like to bring anyone else up to 4 total.  Of course, we opted to take the 4-person reservation because the more the merrier, right?  

After all the identity information, survey questions, accommodation arrangements, and a spiel about our vacation/gift-card winnings, then came the hook – we’ll have to attend a timeshare presentation.  We were assured that we were only obligated for 90 minutes to 2 hours of the presentation; and with that, my wife and I looked at each other with a “do we believe that?” stare.  

But sure – in for a penny, in for a pound.  

Two things caught both of us off-guard towards the end of the phone call: 

One, we had to book the dates for our stay immediately.  We had to pull over from driving to frantically look at our calendars and figure out a weekend that worked in both of our schedules. The caller would just suggest a block of days from their availability, and we had to tell him if the range worked out for us.  

Two, we had to pay a $99 “refundable deposit” using a credit card.  When he asked for our credit card information, a giant alarm started going off in my head, yelling at me “this sounds like a scam!!”  I almost put the phone on hold to have a conversation with my wife about backing out of the whole thing.  I took a deep breath and reminded myself that our credit cards have fraud protection on them; and we’d just have to keep a closer eye on our credit card statements for awhile.  

Although we haven’t completely confirmed this, our strong-suspicions are that the initial phone call is really a screening. They want to see how susceptible you’re going to be to the timeshare sales pitch. It felt like a test to see if we were people that would make a fast decision, without much information, and commit money instantly for a “too good to be true” deal.  

Well, whatever we did “worked,” because as we later learned, they put us in the “prime candidate” group for the presentation.  More on that later.  

Arriving at Our Destination 

Because of the Covid-19 policy, only one person from our party was allowed into the lobby to check in to our room; our timeshare presentation was scheduled for the second day of our stay at 8 am. Only the person who checked-in signed any paperwork at all; and the other 3 members of our party didn’t sign anything or give any names. 

8am, bright and early, we drove over to the location for the timeshare talk and waited in a small line for a teller.  The person in front of us was having an unfriendly banter with the teller.  The only thing I picked up from my eavesdropping was that all the members of his party weren’t there so he wasn’t able to get signed in. We got called next and checking in only took a few seconds.  She asked if all members of our party were there, we said yes, and she said to wait in a corner for our “agent” to come and get us.

After a few minutes, our salesperson came out of a room, introduced himself, and walked us outside.  He said because of covid restrictions, he wouldn’t give us a tour of the entire facilities and grounds. Instead, we would drive separately over to a condo where he would give us a talk.  

We loaded up into our vehicle and were on our way without ever signing any official paperwork.  Also, we had been told over the phone, and on our “terms and conditions”, that we needed IDs and a credit card, but we didn’t need anything. I’m not sure if that is normal, or just because we showed up during covid restrictions.  

The TimeShare Pitch

We followed our salesperson’s car to a condo. On the ground floor, they had free continental breakfast and drinks set out on a table behind a rope, and someone with gloves handed us whatever we asked for.  We took an elevator up a few floors and our salesperson took the stairs to meet us at the top, then he showed us to a room and left so we could eat our breakfasts without our masks. We thought the room was stuffy, because we were all in our winter jackets, so we opened all the windows.  It was ~30 degrees outside.  When he came back, he sat in a chair across from our sofa.  I imagine he thought we were trying to freeze him out, but we were just hot.  

For the first 20 minutes, there was some minor small talk about nothing. It might have been to put us at ease?  Either way, we were pretty guarded with personal info.  He probably expected us to talk more about ourselves, and we were expecting him to ask us more direct, pointed questions.  

When he started to transition, I asked for an outline of what to expect for the meeting. How was our time going to be broken down?  What is our obligation?  How many people will we talk to?  Are we going on a tour? What is our time frame?  

He said we were there for a timeshare presentation – “yes, it’s a sales pitch.”  We had to be there for “an hour and a half, or 2 hours – whatever they told you.” Then when it was over, he’d take us back to the main building where we’d get our $150 gift certificate and a voucher that waived the cost of our stay.  

And then our “presentation” began.

He flew through a lot of “numbers” and acronyms. He talked so fast, to the point where none of us absorbed anything. To this day, I have no idea what he was even saying. Either way, as fast as he spat out numbers, the topic would always change.  I’m not sure if it was him, or us, or both; but we talked about movies, Pokemon, shoes, horses … just about everything except timeshares. 

After 40 minutes of struggling to sell us, he took us to a luxury apartment in the same complex. I think the intention was to give us a tour and really sell us, but other families walked in on us. Because of covid, only one group was allowed in at a time, so we left and let them see the rooms; but then we just kind of wandered off, back towards the door of the building.  I feel kind of bad for the salesperson, because trying to keep track of the four of us was like trying to wrangle cats.  He’d try to show us to a room, or tell us to wait for another family to get done, and we’d just wander back towards the exit.  He’d run to cut us off, and we’d just all meander around him, chatting about something else.  

We weren’t intending to be rude or purposefully being space-cadets or anything. There was just random downtime, so we’d do what any group of friends would do – we’d chat amongst ourselves. We also were never given any real clear instructions on what to do, so we’d just assume we were done and start walking back.  It wasn’t until we looked back on our experience that we realized we were probably sabotaging his sales pitch without meaning to.  

We went back to the “pitch room” and by now it’s about 1 hour and 10 minutes in.  Cecilia leaves the room to go to the restroom. (She was 3 months pregnant at the time, so bathroom breaks happened ALOT.) The salesperson looks at the 3 of us and says, “Okay, just be honest with me here. Why in the world are you guys at a timeshare talk?” There’s a pause while we all just stare at him, wondering what we should say and he fills the void with, “if you’re all so scared of covid that you’re even opening the window when it’s 30 degrees outside to get fresh air, why did you come here in the first place?”  I reply,

“… well, you want honesty?  My wife clicked a link on a Facebook contest that said we could win 3 days and 2 nights at a resort.  They called us while we were driving to say we’d won.  My wife was excited, and I wanted her to be happy, so I said sure, I’d go along with it.  The guy on the phone asked if we had 2 friends that would want to go, too, and we said we weren’t sure; so he said he’d put us down for 4, just in case. We asked our friends, they said they wanted to come, and here we all are.”  

He nodded along; looked at the 3 of us; pulled out his phone; and started playing Pokemon Go.  

Once Cecilia got out of the bathroom, he ran through his pitch at lightning speed.  He showed us a piece of paper with numbers on it that had a large down-payment. He rambled on and said, “but you don’t have that much in the bank, do you?”  After a pause, Scott said “no comment” – because the entire morning, none of us gave away any information about our financial situations.  He instantly flipped the paper over and showed us another price, the “only for today” offer with a lower price with financing; and asked if we wanted to buy at that price.  I said “no.” He said “alright then,” and texted his boss, then went back to playing Pokemon Go.  

Related Content: Traveling Alone or With a Companion: Which is Better?

Leisure Suit Larry 

After a few minutes of the party chatting about nothing again, in walks the boss – we’ll call him Larry.  Larry looks the part.  He’s wearing an olive-green suit that has the kind of texture that looks expensive; and a very high-maintenance hairstyle with a lot of gray speckles.  Larry’s entire presence is summed up by the uncertainty of whether his hair was naturally gray, or if it was purposefully dyed to look older.  

Larry has a calm, methodical delivery any time he speaks, like someone reciting a script that’s been rehearsed to perfection but then delivered so many times until it’s lost its meaning. He speaks without pauses, taking a big breath before each section of his ramble. He would emphasize words by deliberately stretching out the word, not by raising his voice.  Every point he made was framed as if the decision has already been made for you – you will lose money if you don’t make this choice because you are already spending money on vacations. 

Larry is what a used car salesman would be if used cars sold for more money.  

Larry ended his spiel with a piece of paper, which had a unit available for “today only.”  They’re always “only today.” 

He passed the piece of paper over to us, and the age of the paper suggested it wasn’t the first time he’s handed it to someone.  

The number on the paper was drastically less than any of the previous offers – it was less than half of the previous lowest offer.  I looked at the paper, folded it back in half, handed it back, and said no.  Larry was reluctant to take the paper, and asked “why?” 

We knew this moment was coming and prepared for it.  We reminded ourselves that we don’t have to justify any of our answers.  Socially, it’s polite to justify yourself; but you’re never under any obligation to justify yourself.  

We answered, “we don’t make large financial decisions that quickly. We talk through financial decisions together.”  Larry gave another ramble – this one I honestly didn’t listen to.  I just zoned out for a moment.  Then Cecilia answered him, “and we have a kid on the way, which makes it more important to spend time on big financial decisions, so the answer is still no.”  

Larry asked, “so … is there anything I can do or say that’s going to change that decision for you today?”  I said “no,” expecting to have to say that a lot at this point.  But then Larry abruptly said, “Okay, thank you for your time,” stood up, and walked out without a second look at us.  It was just an immediate withdrawal.  

The first salesperson, who had been sitting there quietly during Larry’s entire spiel, slapped his thighs, said “okay, I’ll take you back to the main center to claim your prizes” and visibly ripped up the piece of paper he’d shown us earlier.  He started to make some comments about wasting his time, but we were already walking out the door and didn’t really catch them.  

The Final Boss

We drove back to the main center and through a conference room that, in non-covid times, would have been the first room.  He took us close to a receptionist’s desk and asked us to stay put while he went to talk to someone.  We wandered up closer to them, trying to look out of a window to see a pool, which was just close enough to eavesdrop on the salesperson’s conversation.  He was giving her details about the conversation we’d had with him and Larry – that we “don’t make large financial decisions that quickly.”  He was giving her everything she needed so she would know the right angle to close the deal!  

It turns out, the woman he handed us off to was the Final Boss.  She asked us to go into another room, and Cecilia wandered off to the bathroom.   The three of us walked into the room, realized Cecilia wasn’t there, and wandered back out.  When she got out of the restroom, the four of us went in together to see the Final Boss.  She was sitting behind a small table with two chairs set up in front of it.  She said we could sit down, but we remained standing.  There were four of us and only two chairs.  You could tell that having 4 people there instead of 2 really threw their usual gameplans off.  

She asked us what the final price Larry quoted us was, and I told her; then she said “What if I could offer you that same unit at this price?”  She wrote a number on a piece of paper that was, again, exactly half of what Larry had offered.  

We repeated our line, “We don’t make large financial dec–” She interrupted, “Okay, take this slip into the next room and we’ll settle you up.”  

We hadn’t noticed, but there was a slip of paper already sitting on the desk in front of her.  With the paper in hand, we headed into the next room and handed it to an old man who was polite, friendly, jovial and looked like he was having the time of his life at work.  He slapped a stamp down on the paper, handed us a voucher, and we were out in no time.  We managed to survive the timeshare presentation.

Total time: 1 hour and 39 minutes.  

The Aftermath

After we left, we spent a lot of time talking with one another, trying to understand why we’d been let off so easily.  All of us had heard the nightmare stories about high-pressure timeshares – that people spent an entire day being shuffled from room-to-room, the aggressive salespeople, the insults, the good-cop bad-cop routines, etc.  We got none of that.  We were practically shoved out the door at one point.  

One theory we had was that we were a group of 4 that weren’t related to one another.  We were 2 couples, so they couldn’t pin one of us against the other.  They also couldn’t sell to all 4 of us, because we would never buy something together.  

Another theory was that we were just too chaotic for them.  We constantly changed the conversation – but not really on purpose.  We just filled the silent pauses with jokes or comments that became side-conversations.  

Timeshare Presentation Basics: Insight From an Industry Insider

We had to know why our experience was so different from the ones we’d heard about, so we called up a friend that used to be in the industry as a timeshare salesperson.  

Here’s what we found out:  

The reason some salespeople are pushier than others is because if they don’t sell for awhile, they’re suddenly given “one last chance” to sell, and if they don’t sell on that day, they’re fired.   If someone wants to keep their job, they have to sell; and that can lead to a very high-pressure sale.  

Sometimes they’ll get mad if you’re rude or just blatantly not interested from the start of the talk. They’ll toy with you and keep you longer on purpose out of spite. This can happen when you tell the salesperson from the start: “look, we’re just not interested in buying, we’re only here for the free stay.” 

Often, the salesperson lies about their background to identify with the “prospect”, like saying they have kids too; or they will lie about how long they have been selling; or that they have a dog, are also divorced, etc.  When our insider told us that, we all blinked. Had our salesperson lied about everything he told us the entire time?  At one point, he gave us his kids’ names – and now I’m not sure he even had kids.  

If a salesperson makes a sale on the previous day, then they get “first pick” in the morning; and the 8am timeslot is reserved for people they think are absolutely going to buy.  We were the 8am timeslot.  I have no idea why they put us in that group.  

If enough people are lined up that day for talks and they don’t have enough salespeople, they go on rotation.  As soon as a salesperson finishes their talk, they can go back and get another prospect.  The earlier they can pick a prospect, the higher the chances of getting a sell.  That’s why there’s more incentive for them to end a tour earlier if they know you aren’t going to buy and your tour is in the morning.  Tours in the afternoon aren’t so lucky.  

What if someone owns a timeshare and gets someone else to sign up for the timeshare talk? The timeshare owner gets a kickback – usually waived fees. 

But ultimately, why did our salesperson let go of us so fast?  Because Cecilia was pregnant.  At one point, our salesperson asked why Cecilia was going to the bathroom so much.  We told him she was pregnant, and when she came back in the room, he commented, “I didn’t even notice you were pregnant until you said that.”  That’s when he started flying through his presentation.  That was the change.  Apparently, people who are expecting a child don’t make sudden or “big” financial decisions. They’re too focused on what’s good for the baby.  

Tips on How to Survive a Timeshare Presentation

So here we are, everything we’ve learned boiled down to our top tips for surviving a timeshare talk.  

1. Go in prepared .

There is no reason to be mean or rude.  Just know your stance, be assertive, and remember that you don’t owe anyone anything.  It’s not impolite to say “no” without an excuse.  “No” is a complete answer that doesn’t need to be justified.  

2. Remember that you’re in a sales pitch .

For salespeople, ‘being nice’ is part of the sale. Similarly, ‘being relatable to you’ is more important than them telling you the truth. They butter you up in order to get information out of you, and they rely on the information you’ve volunteered for their pitch.  Things like your job, hobbies, or even your last vacation are used to determine your personal wealth and spending habits.  

3. Silence is your strength.

It’s really, really tempting to argue, or to call the salespeople out when you catch them in a ‘blunder’ or ‘ah-HA’ moment.  But just remember: if you argue, you just feed into their pitch and you’ll end up staying even longer.  They want you to argue so they can sell you harder.  Don’t get into a back-and-forth. 

4. Be on guard for the angle.

The salesperson is always fishing for an angle. If they don’t know what is important to you they cant sell you. They’ll try to get you emotionally invested.  They might try to insult you, or dig at your ego, with things like “you can’t afford this, right? This is too much for you.” Don’t defend yourself. Don’t justify yourself. Just say “no” and leave it at that.  

5. Decide on a secret reason against buying and never disclose it .

If they don’t know why you won’t buy, then they can’t give you a pitch or argue against it.  For us, we knew that a timeshare is just a bad financial decision.  The financing is really expensive, and you don’t “save money” in the end.  That was our secret reason; and when the numbers were explained to us, and we saw the paper showing that it was a bad decision, we didn’t go “ah-HA!”  We just nodded along and kept it inside.  They can’t sweet-talk their way around your roadblock if they don’t know it’s there.  

6. If you really want a timeshare, don’t buy at the pitch.

7. and, of course, if all else fails – be pregnant..

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This post has 15 comments.

I like the idea of timeshares—in fact, my inlaws own several—but I hate the high-pressure sales tactics they employ. It’s such a turn off.

That is such a good point. The concept of a timeshare isn’t all that bad, but the high-pressure talk and the difficulty of selling a timeshare should you ever change your mind are huge turn offs.

I love that the title includes SURVIVE, because that’s totally how it feels! We had to say “no” to like 10 different people before they would let us go!

We have heard so many horror stories like this. So glad we survived our first timeshare experience and came out on the other end with some bits of wisdom. Hoping this article can help out a few others so they do not have to endure a situation like yours!

I always wondered about timeshares. I like the concept but the sales tactic is highly annoying . It makes me wonder if it’s worth it .

You definitely have a point. High-pressure timeshare presentations are exactly that, high-pressure. They aren’t necessarily meant to be enjoyable, but I do think the experience depends on the salesperson. If you are assigned to a pleasant and respectful salesperson, then the experience really isn’t all that bad! It’s just playing roulette to see what kind of salesperson you wind up with.

Loved this. Your title caught me and made me laugh. Your last line made me laugh. My in-laws have had a time share for years and have dumped so much into the “maintenance fees”. It is a nightmare now for them to try to get out of it! Moral of the story: Whatever you might spend on the time share, you could simply put toward a nice hotel for your vacations and probably still come out ahead. Don’t fall for the pitch!

That’s such a good point. We haven’t heard of too many people who have been happy with their choice to purchase a time share. I think personally we will stick to the hotels and Airbnb’s as you mentioned!

Ive stayed at friend’s time shares a few times, and they can be really nice, but those pitches are such a turn off! Now I know, mention that I’m pregnant and if we do want to buy, don’t buy it at the pitch!

It’s a pretty good deal for a free holiday for you. :)

Great article with good suggestions. I do these as a travel hack to get free stays and freebies in Vegas. The key is to have an ironclad will and not be afraid to keep saying “no.” No matter what the reps try yo say or do, YOU are in control. They are obligated to give you the gifts and you are under no obligation to be polite or give reasons. The worst thing that can happen is you’ll get berated or insulted. There are worse things to endure and you basically get a free hotel stay. Good luck and may the odds be ever in your favor.

I like the Hunger Games reference. Thanks for sharing your personal experience with surviving timeshare presentations. It takes a strong will to make it through without buying anything, but like you said YOU are in control and have the right to say no.

Well they get you drunk in Mexico I bought a timeshare in Cabo and they kept serving me and my friend drinks to loosen me up. I fell in love with my salesman and finally gave in he was so nice and now I am one of the happiest timeshare owners on the planet. Going to Cancun booked a 1700 square foot 2 bedroom 2 bath bringing 3 friends with me. Hotels are soo soo expensive and with a timeshare I am saving a ton of money and it is making me travel more which I love. Life is short live it to the fullest and don’t look back. I was all ways jealous of friends that owned Timshares but now I get to enjoy all the benefits and I am saving a ton of money.

I LOVED your article and learned a great deal! Thank you so much for taking the time to share your knowledge. We definitely will do the things you have suggested. I might even buy a pregnancy belly to wear. Lol

Hahaha good luck, let us know how it goes!

Love your angle and how you shared your experience along with your post realization analysis. We’ve done a few many many years ago and found the perks of going to a high-stress 2 hour meeting somewhat worth it, but then again agonizing.

We are about to go to another in the next month and this was helpful to get us mentally prepared.

Thank you for taking the time to share.

Comments are closed.

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How to Avoid a Timeshare Presentation

Ever since developers realized that they could get fast money out of a hotel or real estate project by selling units as timeshares, their sales reps have been let loose on unsuspecting travelers. And that is why you need to know how to avoid a high-pressure, arm-twisting sales pitch that lassos you into a timeshare presentation that will waste your time and put you at potential financial risk.

The last thing you may want to think about on vacation is buying real estate; these sharks intend to change your mind. They offer inducements such as free flights, free nights, free tours, and other "free" gifts.

Timeshare salespeople are trained to be persistent and wear down resistance. The worst ones are downright deceitful. But you aren't defenseless. If you can learn how to avoid a timeshare presentation and are willing to temporarily suspend your good manners, those sales types will be no more annoying than gnats.

Difficulty: Average

Time required: 5 minutes if you succeed, hours if you don't, here's how:.

• Avoid something-for-nothing offers.  Ever pick up the phone and hear a robo-voice announce, "Congratulations! You've won a free vacation... a romantic vacation ... a trip to Disneyland ?" Hang up immediately! These are all come-ons and you won't get something for nothing if these people hook you. So if you are not interested in dubious investments, do not accept any such offers by phone, in the mail, through social media. or on location to sit through a timeshare presentation. 
• Find out who you're dealing with. Sellers can be sneaky, and some use terminology different from "timeshare presentation" (such as discovery tour, gift opportunity, special value promotion). If someone offers you something, ask if he or she is a sales person and if real estate ownership is involved. Be suspicious!
• Get in and get out. Okay; you couldn't resist. They promised it would be short and the reward worthwhile. Hold them to the time frame promised, and set your watch or smartphone alarm. Fifteen minutes before the timeshare presentation is scheduled to end, give them warning that you will leave.
• Give out as little personal information as possible. Do not give timeshare sellers your cellphone, home, or work phone numbers, nor your main email address. If they insist, provide fake numbers.
• Under no circumstance, give anyone associated with the presentation your credit card information.
• Don't sign any anything. Once you put your signature to an agreement, you will be legally bound to carry out the terms of the contract. If you do become interested in the property, ask to take an unsigned copy of the agreement and say you will have it reviewed by your attorney.
• Just say no . Not maybe, not "we'll think about it," just no. The worst thing you can do is lead a salesperson on. He or she will become your personal barnacle.
• Be willing to be rude. It's not in some peoples' nature to flat-out say, "No... I don't want this... get out of my face." You're not dealing with grandma or a member of a church congregation. You're dealing with a salesperson. If they push you, push back. They're trained to be persistent and deal with rejection.
• Leave. You cannot legally be held against your will. By leaving, you will forfeit any "gift" that you were promised, and you may be responsible for your own transportation back to your hotel. But then you will be free.
• Call the police. If anyone tries to block your exit, immediately call the police from your cellphone and record the exchange. (Asking to speak to a manager or supervisor may not be the solution, as this individual is typically a senior salesperson aka con man who is even more adept in the deceptive "art of the deal.")

What You Need:

• Ability to withstand sales pressure
• Willingness to be rude if necessary
• Determination not to sign anything
• Wisdom to resist "too good to be true" offers
• Understanding that ones who profit from timeshares are sellers not owners

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How to Get Out of A Timeshare Presentation Fast & Enjoy Free Vacation!

Timeshare presentation deals are attractive because they can get you a free vacation or an incredible discount, but they can also be a huge pain if not done right. Whether you just got a timeshare presentation invite and are considering signing up or you already booked your vacation and wanted to learn how to get out of a timeshare presentation fast, this is the guide for you!

My husband and I have been to a fair share of timeshare presentations in the past few years, and some of them were truly nightmares. We were once stuck at a timeshare presentation in Cancun from early morning till almost 7 PM. The pressure to buy into a timeshare was just too much, and we were not equipped with enough knowledge about the industry to deal with the high-pressure sales tactics.

But not to worry, because you’re here, and you will learn all that I wish I knew before signing up for a timeshare presentation deal. Follow these simple steps and you’ll be on your way to freedom!

1. Understand Timeshare Deals and Vacation Club Ownership Promotions

If you want to survive a timeshare presentation, the first step is to do your research ahead of time and know what you’re getting into before you go to the presentation.

🏠 What is a timeshare?

A timeshare is a vacation property, usually a vacation home or condo, that is shared by a group of people. Each person has the right to use the property for a certain amount of time each year. Timeshares are typically owned by companies, and they will sell or rent out the units to timeshare owners. There are many different types of timeshares, and they can be used for vacation homes, rental properties, or even primary residences.

Though it is certainly not for everyone, timeshare has become an increasingly popular vacation option, especially for families because it offers the opportunity to own a piece of prime real estate that can be used for vacationing year after year. Many big hotel brands have their own affiliated timeshare division, such as Marriott Vacation Club, Hilton Grand Vacations, Holiday Inn Vacation, Club, Hyatt Residence Club, and Disney Vacation Club, etc.

There are many different types of timeshare ownership plans available, but the two most common ones are points-based and deeded-week.

• A points-based program is a system in which each year, you have a number of points that can be redeemed against nights at your timeshare. For example, if you have 2,000 points, you could redeem them for two nights at a studio for two people or one night at a one-bedroom suite for four people. Points can be accumulated over time, and there is no limit to the number of points that you can have.
• A deeded-week program, on the other hand, is a system in which you have a “week” of the year that you can use your timeshare. For example, if you own the 26th week at a timeshare, you would have that same week every year to use for your vacation.

I’ve met a lot of people who were timeshare owners and they seemed to truly enjoy the ownership, but one thing I have learned is that timeshare is certainly not for everyone. There are annual maintenance fees that must be paid in order to keep the property in good condition. Timeshare properties can be swapped for other properties, but the process can be complicated. If you decide to sell your timeshare later, it’s important to know that it doesn’t hold much value in the reseller’s market. All of this is to say that if you’re considering a timeshare, be sure to do your research and understand all of the pros and cons before making a decision.

🏠 What is a timeshare presentation?

A timeshare presentation is a high-pressure sales pitch for vacation ownership in which a company tries to convince you to buy a timeshare. The company typically offers incentives such as free tours, free event or show tickets, free transportation, or an incredible hotel discount to lure you to attend a timeshare presentation with the hope that you will make a purchase.

The promoter usually promises that the pitch would only last 90 minutes or two hours, but the time varies depending on how long you take to tour the property. It will also take much longer if you haven’t had much experience dealing with the high pressure of their timeshare sales tactics.

During the timeshare presentation, the presenter will try to convince you that owning a timeshare is a great investment. They will likely talk about how much money you can save by vacationing at their resort, and they may even offer some sort of incentive, like a free stay or a discount on future purchases.

🏠 What really happens at a timeshare presentation?

At check-in, you will be asked to present your ID and credit card for verification purposes. If you attend timeshare presentations in Mexico , you will be asked to sign a paper which basically states that you can’t come back for another presentation at the property. Our sales representatives explained to us that it’s part of Mexican law to protect customers from being pestered again and again. However, they would later use that as part of their high-pressure sales tactic that if you don’t make a purchase then, you won’t ever be able to buy from them!

After check-in, you may be presented with snacks, drinks, breakfast, or lunch while you wait for the sales representative. It usually starts with a casual conversation where the sales presentative tries to understand your finances and travel patterns, before explaining to you how vacation ownership at a timeshare property can help you travel for a fraction of the cost.

They will make you the first offer, which is usually very expensive, but it comes with several perks like an extra free stay at the current property or another property owned by the company. They will position the timeshare deal as a golden ticket to luxury travel for cheap!

If you hesitate, the representative will throw in more offers, of course, at lower prices and fewer perks, making the first offer look like it has better value. If you don’t commit to buying, another presentative will be sent to convince you. You will most likely see several rounds of sales representatives, each pushier than the last. Some of them will try to convince you to buy a timeshare by making false promises about the benefits of ownership.

They use very high-pressure tactics to ask you to commit right then and there, as the offer is no longer available when you leave the property.

2. If you’re interested in buying a timeshare, negotiate for the best deal

While timeshare is not for everyone, it can be a good way to save money on vacations for certain people who enjoy coming back to a favorite destination every year. Timeshare owners have familiar accommodations to return to each time without the hassle of having to manage a fully owned property. 

If you have the intention of buying a timeshare, it’s important to make sure you’re getting the best deal possible. One way to do this is to pressure the timeshare company for the best deals during a presentation.

Never accept the first offer and keep asking for more for discounts, freebies, and other incentives. If the salesperson isn’t willing to budge (which usually doesn’t happen), show that you’re ready to walk away and look for a better deal elsewhere.

When you push hard enough, the sales representative may have to check with the manager/director, but they will usually be able to accommodate a better deal. With a little bit of pressure, you can get the timeshare presentation you want at a price that’s right for you and get extra benefits.

We have successfully negotiated several timeshare deals, some from around $30,000 down to $10,000 and with even more points and perks. The sales reps will make it sound like every offer they throw at you is the best, but if you turn back the pressure on them, you will be surprised at what kind of a deal you can walk away with!

Book a one-on-one coaching session on timeshare negotiation for $399!

3. If you don’t have the intention of buying, be upfront and firm

If your sole intention is to get free gifts and discounts during vacation, it’s understandable that you will want to get out of the timeshare presentation as soon as possible. In that case, it’s important to be upfront and firm with the sales representative from the very beginning.

Let them know that you’re not interested in buying a timeshare and that you’re only there for the free gifts. If they try to pressure you into making a purchase, politely decline and excuse yourself from the presentation. By being honest and assertive, you can avoid wasted time and unwanted pressure.

The salespeople are trained to pressure you into staying, so you have to be stronger than they are. Tell them that you’re not interested and that you want to leave. Be polite, but don’t give them any room to negotiate.

If they sense that you’re even remotely interested, they will try to hard sell you on the timeshare. Some of them will try to guilt-trip you into buying because of the free gifts you’re getting, but remember that you’re not obligated to buy anything. The free gifts or discounts are purely incentives to get you to attend the presentation.

If you follow the above steps, you should be able to survive a timeshare presentation without too much trouble. Want more? Grab my free timeshare survival kit with things you could say to get out of the timeshare presentation fast!

Key Takeaways: How to Survive a Timeshare Presentation

Timeshares can be a great way to save money on vacations, but they are certainly not for everyone and can become a major financial burden.

A timeshare presentation is a way that companies use to woo you into buying a timeshare. For some people, it’s not worth it to have to endure hours of pitches and high-pressure sales tactics just to save a few extra bucks on vacation. For others, timeshare presentations are the golden tickets to luxury travel on a budget.

The trade-off is that timeshare presentations are often long and tedious, and can be very difficult to get out of. Only you can decide if it’s worth it for you or not. But after all, I hope this post has equipped you with the important knowledge and tips to help make your escape from the timeshare presentation easier!

How to say NO to a timeshare presentation sales pitch

What is a timeshare.

A timeshare is essentially a shared rental of a vacation property. You “buy” a share of room that you can visit a set number of days at set locations every year. Vacation clubs are not exactly the same but they may be similar. In these situations you get multiple location options based on their property locations at a “discount”. But there are membership fees associated with the properties. Needless to say there are people sitting through these presentations for an amazing deal but are worried about how to say no to timeshare presentation sales pitches.

Believe it or not, I know people that won’t book a resort through a timeshare site because they are afraid of the presentation. This fear keeps them from saving up to two-thirds the value of the trip, which can be used for a number of things such as ANOTHER trip! Lucky for you I am here to help. We have been on 3 trips through BookVIP who offer AMAZING deals on resort stays all over the world. For example, we got deals for $99 vacations in the US and all inclusive deals under $1000 for two in Mexico . The catch is that to get these deals you have to site through a 90-120 minute sales pitch. I will show you ways to survive the timeshare sales pitch and minimize your time in the presentation.

What is a Timeshare Presentation?

A timeshare presentation is a 90-120 minute sales pitch designed to sell timeshare property or vacation club memberships to vacationers. While the presentations call for 90-120 minutes, that is the minimum time commitment. They can go longer if you do not shut them down. However, if you are truly interested this might not be a problem.

On the other hand, the rest of us probably are sitting through them to take advantage of an impossible deal. That’s exactly how we were introduced to these promotions.

Don’t get me wrong, we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves on these trips. But our first one caused us some anxiety because we had no idea what to expect. I am going to explain it all so you can also enjoy these super cheap vacation deals and not stress out over the presentation.

What Happens During a Timeshare Presentation?

The first step is to know what is about to happen. Once you have that down and you see everything unfold, the rest is easy.

After you arrive at your resort you will be scheduled a morning presentation. The presentation usually happens within the first day or two of your arrival. I like it this way for a few reasons. First, with it being in the morning we can get the sales pitch over with and then we can enjoy the rest of our day. Second, getting it done early in your stay means by the time the end of your stay arrives the presentation is a distant memory.

The Breakfast Meeting

So now the presentation is booked and you show up. What happens now is you will be served breakfast and a representative will be assigned to you, if one wasn’t already. In our case we met our representative the day we arrived and they are the ones who gave us the basic rundown of the resort and was very welcoming.

This is by design! They want to establish a bit of trust the moment you arrive and there is nothing better than sending that helpful rep to meet you are breakfast the next day.

Anyway, during breakfast the rep will continue being sweet and establishing a bond. They may ask personal questions and also reveal personal information about themselves. This is not different than going to a Gentleman’s club or to Hooters and seeing the girls sitting with their customers. All they are really doing here is creating a connection of some sort while asking probing questions that may be used against you later.

I am not saying you should be rude. After all, these people are just doing their jobs. But do not be too free with your information if you want to make it easy t say no to the timeshare sales pitch later.

How to handle breakfast to make it easier to say NO to the timeshare presentation

First of all you should keep it in your head that this is al going to result in the sales pitch. It doesn’t matter how rude you are or how sweet you are, the result is the same. With that being the case undersell yourself. What I mean by that is even if you travel every month, do not tell them that.

They probably already know your income, so no sense in lying about that.

What they are trying to find out is how much you spend on travel, how often you travel and your upcoming travel plans. Give them nothing to work with.

If they ask me how often I travel I reply “Once a year if I am lucky.” This shows them you don’t travel that often. They may also ask how many travel days you typically use. Same idea, “sometimes 5 days a year sometimes 2. “

If they ask how much I spend on travel I reply “Not much, that is why I came here. Because it was so cheap.” They may get more specific and ask about your travel budget but you do not need to give them a solid figure. Something like “it varies by year”, should be fine.

When breakfast is over you will be given a tour.

The same helpful person you met the day before and that sat with you at breakfast is likely your guide. That was our experience at one resort. At another, they actually took us to their sister resort right next door. In that case our breakfast and tour was under the supervision of a new person. Other than that, everything was the same.

The tour guide will take you to see some very nice parts of the property. They will also show you upgraded rooms available only to “members”, or so they say. They point out all the amenities and talk about how wonderful and luxurious everything is. To be honest, we did see some very nice rooms and of course, the property was well groomed and lush.

How to handle the tour to make it easier to say NO during timeshare presentation sales pitch

Your breakfast companion and tour guide is not going to be the closer. They are just warming you up for later. But make no mistake, they get a feel for the customer and you better believe they communicate with the sales staff.

This will include any Intel they gathered during breakfast, your general excitement, travel habits and future plans.

So, if you did a good job at breakfast it will make it easier for you to say no to the timeshare sales pitch.

The tour is where I not so subtlety start looking at my watch. Yes, that’s passive aggressive but I want them to know that I am tracking time. On the other hand, if you are more forward, set an alarm to go off at the appropriate time.

The Timeshare Presentation Sales Area: Part 1

Some timeshare properties have you sit down and watch a short video after the tour. Others take you directly to the closer. Either way, the closer is briefed about everything I mentioned already.

Part 1 just refers to the video presentation. It is very general and may show you other properties in the chain. You will see beautiful visuals, probably set to some island music or vacation stye tunes to get you worked up.

How to handle the video presentation to make it easier to say NO during timeshare presentation sales pitch

There is not much to do here besides keep your emotions in check. Don’t start getting curious now because any question later can lead to extra time during your sales pitch. Remember, 90 minutes is the minimum!

Timeshare Presentation Sales Area: Part 2

This is where you meet the closer. The guy trained to use all of the information you gave them or did not give them in order to get you interested. It is my experience that these people are assertive but I did not find them aggressive. The difference really boils down to how disciplined you are and how you accept pressure.

You already know that you have a minimum time there, may as well not fight it and just get through the spiel.

How to handle the Closer to make it easier to say NO during timeshare presentation sales pitch

Show NO interest at all. They will ask question, lots of them. The answers give them ammunition to use as a counter argument. It’s a lot like those courtroom TV dramas, the more information the person on the stand gave away, the more rope they gave to the prosecutor to use against them.

Do you like the property so far? What did you think of the membership rooms? How much do you spend when you travel? Does your family like to travel? And on, and on.

You will inevitably answer a few questions but if you keep the somewhat vague there is less ammo for them to use. There will be a time to be firm and decisive though, that comes when your minimum time limit has been reached.

Before that happens though, if the closer is making no progress he might pass you off to the “Manager”.

The Manager

If you are on social media at all you have probably heard of the term “Karen”. A Karen is a stereotype for a woman who always wants to talk to the manager. Karen’s do this for the most trivial reasons and even when they are in the wrong. Many times they do this simply to belittle the employee that served them in front of their coworkers and boss. “I’d like to speak to your manager” is Karen’s battle-cry.

Well, I have news for Karen. This is ONE manager she does not want to speak to. The manager is going to knock down pricing, he is going to offer different plans, he may offer perks. He will seemingly have an answer for every objection you have. So now what?

How to handle the manager to make it easier to say NO during timeshare presentation sales pitch

The answer is still no. I am not interested. They will want to know why or they may want to now how to sweeten the deal.

Anything you say should be firm and plausible and can end in with minimum resistance.

I will give you an example.

Me: “I have only been here a day (or two)”Them: “This special deal is only available now.”

Them: “This special deal is only available now.”

Me: “I have to pass.”

That is really my go to. Basically to sum it up is “I do not make decisions like this on the spot.” That is pretty much it, there are not too many comebacks from that. All they have left is to try to pressure you by cutting the cost or adding perks and convincing you the deal is only good on the spot.

Any wavering from that opens the door for more rebuttals.

Lets assume you had a drink or two at breakfast or you slipped up a bit during the other parts of the sales pitch. What now?

Other Ways to Say No to the Timeshare Presentation Sales Pitch

It all boils down to your mindset. Remember You just paid $700 and got 8 days for two in Cancun with all th3 food you can eat and all the booze you can drink. Just reflecting on that that will help. But I have more!

It’s a game

The timeshare presentation is just a game. The reps all are trained to gain confidence, overcome objection and sell product. They do it everyday. They here no everyday. The game is for them to get a sale or at least get you interested.

For you the game is to see how many times you can say no in 90-120 minutes and how little wiggle room you give the rep. You win if you say no to the timeshare presentation sales pitch and get out very close to the minimum time requirement. That mindset keeps it somewhat fun, especially if your partner is in on the fun.

Put them on the defensive

So, you had trouble saying no and you forgot to make it a game. What now? You can always put them on the defensive.

For example, all timeshares have maintenance fees for the property. Those fees are passed on to the members. The thing is the fees actually vary by year so they have no way to tell you what the fees are from one year to the next. And if they can’t give you an actual figure, how can they expect you to sign a contract?

Blame it on the plastic

So, in this scenario they are asking you for the sale and you forgot everything else. What do you do now?

Blame it on your credit card! Let them know that when you travel you only carry cards with low limits in case they get lost. They may offer financing but tell them no, you don’t want to pay those rates and you don’t want anything new on your credit.

It’s not you, it’s me

A very polite and effective counter to all of this is your travel habits. This is why I advised you to be careful during the early stages of the selling process.

Why would you invest in an International timeshare package when half of your vacations are in the USA? Or why would you invest in a domestic timeshare if half of your trips are to Mexico? See? Very hard for them to justify the expense if you would not use the service.

If it comes down to it, you can tell them you rarely can travel due to work schedule, kids, sick parents etc.. No sense in buying a timeshare if you only travel a week every two years.

Privacy Please

Another tip is to create a sense that you prefer to make these decisions in private. Yes, your partner will be there and yes they will use that against you, but be firm and let them know you do not discuss money issues in public.

You like to discuss these matter alone to come to a decision, no matter how much negotiating they try to do with the package.

Another excuse you can use is that you have to consult with your accountant or money manager. If all else fails, tell the you have to pray or meditate before making a decision. All of these require privacy and it gets you away from the situation.

How to Avoid the Timeshare Sales Pitch

Of course, there is an easier but more expensive way to end the presentation. Do not show up or cut it off before your minimum time requirement.

If you are feeling stressed you do not have to stay. By the same token, they don’t have to give you the vacation for next to nothing either. You are getting an all inclusive vacation for two for under $1,000 based on your honoring the presentation agreement.

However, that is all you agreed to. You are under no obligation to buy or to stay longer than their minimum required time.

Saying NO to Timeshare Presentation Bottom Line

A vacation should not be stressful or a hassle. It should be relaxing, pleasant and create lifelong memories. Sadly, most people do not get enough of them for various reasons.

One of the reasons boils down to money which can be solved by taking advantage of these tremendous deals. But if you are not prepared for the situation it can leave you anxious about what is to come.

Remember, these people are trained for this job and they are used to rejection. So be polite but remain disciplined and firm throughout the process.

Follow the tips in this article and you too can take advantage of these deals without the stress of worrying about saying no to the timeshare presentation!

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Table of contents.

How to Survive a Timeshare Presentation

Ibrahim Zaghw is a freelance content writer who helps finance and business-related websites and blogs to both educate and engage their readers.

Timeshare presentations offer attractive perks, but there are serious risks as well. Knowing how to survive a timeshare presentation can help alleviate those risks.

Presentations are the timeshare industry’s primary marketing tool: up to 78% of timeshare owners attended at least one presentation at the resort where they eventually purchased a timeshare. 58% bought after just one presentation[1].

Timeshares are widely seen as a trap. Fees are high, vacation habits change, and one-sided contracts tie owners to their units for life. Still, people attend these presentations and often make decisions they later regret.

This raises some questions:

• What happens during these timeshare presentations? What tactics do they use?
• How can you avoid falling for these tricks and keep your checkbook safe?
• If you end up buying a timeshare, can you rescind your purchase?

Let’s answer all these questions, and show you how to survive a timeshare presentation. Starting with the most obvious one:

Why Would Anyone Attend a Timeshare Presentation in the First Place?

No one wants to sit through a 2-hour presentation, listening to a salesperson drone on about timeshares. Or do they?

Timeshare companies are smart. They lure you in with perks and offers that might make the presentation well worth your time. Here are some offers that others have received:

• A prepaid debit card comes with a substantial sum on it.
• Free tickets to a show.
• Discounts on hotel and resort stays that could reach up to 60%. 

In return for these perks, the timeshare company or resort will ask you and your significant other to attend a 90-minute to 2-hour sales presentation.

Many people show up to these presentations just for the perks. These people are rarely prepared for the barrage of sophisticated sales tactics about to be slung their way, and many end up capitulating under all the pressure. Hence, this is why learning how to survive a timeshare presentation can be crucial.

How to Survive a Timeshare Presentation: What Exactly Happens at the Presentation?

Usually, timeshare presentations follow a specific routine with little deviation from one case to the next. These sales techniques have been developed over years of practice, and they are very effective.

The broad strokes look as follows:

1. The Introductions

Once the resort or company has checked you in, they will send a representative your way, and for the next 2-3 hours, they will be your best friend. They will have a ton in common with you (Wait, you have a German Shepherd waiting for you at home? Well, they have two named Debbie and Laika). 

If you haven’t noticed the sarcasm, what I am really trying to say is that not only is this representative a salesman who will do their best to get you to buy, but they will also try to build rapport with you by being nice and personable and by finding things in common with you, many of which could be invented on the spot.

You might choose to reciprocate the representative’s friendliness, but be careful about what information you share with them. When it’s time to sell, your new best friend will use every morsel of information at their disposal to close the deal.

If anything, it might be in your best interest to be clear from the get-go: If you have no interest in buying a timeshare, then let your representative know that upfront. Otherwise, you risk making the whole sales process harder for yourself, especially if your politeness is interpreted as genuine interest.

2. Refreshments

The timeshare company wants you to be in the best state of mind possible (for them), and alcohol is their friend. They will offer you refreshments before the presentation, including food and drinks. Some companies might present you with complimentary snacks, and others might go the distance and give you a full meal.

You shouldn’t let this excess hospitality get to your head and cause you to lower your defenses, especially if you already know that your answer is no.

3. The Presentation Begins

Now that you have been wined and dined, it is time for the sales process to start, beginning with a group presentation that will include you and other potential buyers. This presentation will be provided by an eloquent individual, someone who has done this hundreds of times before. They are going to wax lyrical, and you might be moved.

Although the presentation may vary from one company to another, the broad strokes are usually the same. Here are some of the main points that you will most likely encounter:

• The presenter will try to stir the audience’s emotions by talking about their dream trips while asking them what’s stopping them from taking those trips.
• Then they give you an answer: a timeshare could be the gateway to your dream trip, and it will cost you only a fraction of what you would have normally paid. (Of course, your presenter will forget to account for miscellaneous costs associated with a timeshare vacation, such as airfare and dining)
• Once they have you hooked and excited about how timeshares can lead you to the good life, the presenter will start discussing how their timeshare system works. This explanation will include vivid examples that will have you imagining all the possibilities.
• After all this, they might end things by offering you an incentive to sign with them on the spot.

Although the above represents what most timeshare presentations will look like, there will always be differences from one company to another. For example, rather than asking you about your dream vacation, the presenter might opt to tell you that you “should be kinder to yourself and treat yourself to more vacations and more luxurious trips.”

4. Giving You the Pitch

Once the presentation is over, your representative, i.e., your new yet temporary best friend, will lead you to a table where they will start laying out your options.

During this portion of the process, the representative is still trying to stoke your desire. They will show you different resorts in their company’s portfolio, they will break down how you can redeem your points if they are selling you a points-based timeshare system, and they will show you pictures of each resort, trying to get you all the more hyped up.

The one thing that your representative will not talk about at this stage is the program’s price. They don’t want to scare you off yet, so they will give you every reason to buy before discussing costs.

5. Taking You on a Tour of the Resort

As if everything up till now hasn’t been enough, the representative will give you a tour of the resort and its amenities. You will get to see the different types of rooms available, all the while imagining what it would be like to own a timeshare over there.

On this tour, you will see the best rooms the resort has to offer. The timeshare company will make sure to dial the luxury knob all the way up to 11. However, what you see will most likely not be what you get if you sign on.

6. Time to Talk About the Benjamins

Let’s recap what’s happened so far: You’ve been wined and dined. You’ve been told that it’s time to take your dream trip, and then you were shown what that trip can look like. You’ve even taken a tour of a resort, taking you one step closer to imagining yourself living a life of luxury .

By now, you should be in the perfect mental state to talk to your representative about how much all of this is going to cost you.

Just to be clear, the average cost of a timeshare is around $24,140. But you might hear numbers far higher than that [2] .

While talking about the costs, the representative will try to push you to make a decision on the spot. And how hard they push you will depend on how interested you have seemed throughout the process thus far. So, for instance, if you seemed eager during the presentation or kept ooohing and aaahing during the tour, the representative will feel that with the right pressure, you might buckle and buy from them.

If you were clear from the get-go and told the representative that you have no intention of buying a timeshare, they are more likely to back off quickly.

7. Bringing in the Closer

If you stick to your guns and refuse to buy, the representative will bring in the heavy artillery: the closer.

Closers will be well-dressed and look the part. They will ask you about your reasons for refusing to purchase and try to “work with you” to overcome these objections.

And, if you still remain intransigent, the closer will start bringing out incentives, hoping to change your mind and get you to sign with them. The closer may offer you a special, one-time deal where you can buy the timeshare for half the price presented to you by the representative. Other possible incentives include loyalty points and free trips. You’ll be offered what sounds like an affordable financing package.

8. Losing a Friend

What happens if you still refuse to purchase, even after the Closer has offered you the best deal the resort can possibly muster?

Remember that representative who was your best friend just a minute ago? Well, yeah, they’re about to give you the cold shoulder. Why should they be your friend if you aren’t going to buy what they’re selling?

You shouldn’t be surprised if the representative suddenly loses all their warmth and friendliness. They work on commission, and their livelihoods are based on you making a purchase. So, part of this sudden reverse in attitude is a genuine disappointment, and the rest is just another sales tactic.

9. Giving You One Last Chance

As you are being shown your way out of the resort, the timeshare company will give you one last offer.

Usually, the representative checking you out, who might be different from your former best friend and now sworn enemy, will also be the one to offer you a deal even better than the one presented by the closer. They will try to pressure you into taking this deal.

If they also fail, they will just show you the door while providing you with all of the promised incentives for attending the timeshare presentation in the first place.

How to Survive a Timeshare Presentation: Say “No” and Do It Often

So what should you do to survive a timeshare presentation? The simple answer is that you should be saying “no” throughout the whole thing. Whether you want to buy a timeshare or not , you should not be buying from a timeshare company, especially when your emotions are running high.

Here’s why “no” is the sensible answer:

Timeshares Cost Way More Than Their Sticker Price Might Suggest

Even though your representative will quote you a steep price to own a timeshare, that’s barely scratching the surface.

For starters, you have to factor in annual fees, including rising maintenance fees, special one-time assessment fees, and taxes . And this is assuming that you have paid for the timeshare out of your own money . But if you have financed the purchase through the timeshare company, you also have to factor in the heavy interest rates the company will levy.

Additionally, just because you have a timeshare doesn’t mean your next vacation is done and paid for. You need to think about airfare, food, and other activities and events you want to participate in. All these things are going to cost you.

Over and above, you should take into consideration the opportunity cost of your timeshare. Your signature on the dotted line will preclude you from exploring other resorts and vacation spots that aren’t covered by your timeshare agreement. This will not only limit your ability to travel but will also likely cause you to feel trapped at some point in the future. After all, you might not be able to afford any more Airbnbs, no more hotels in European countries, and no more cross-country RV trips.

To top it all off, you need to be aware that the minute you buy a timeshare, its value plummets on the spot and is no longer worth the tens of thousands you just put into it. The secondhand market is flooded with people trying to get rid of their timeshares. The other, and bigger problem, is that a timeshare is not an investment , no matter how hard the salesman tries to convince you otherwise.

How to Survive a Timeshare Presentation: Even If You Want to Buy a Timeshare, Don’t Do It at the Presentation

Even if you have your heart set on buying a timeshare, don’t buy it directly from the timeshare company.

Go to the secondhand market, where you can almost always buy the same exact timeshare for a discount of 95% and up to 99%. There are countless individuals out there who feel strapped with their timeshare agreements and want to get rid of them but have a hard time doing so. So, they end up selling at an insane discount – or even giving the timeshare away – just to spare themselves the annual fees.

How Do You Say No and Commit to It?

You may plan to refuse every offer the timeshare company will throw your way, but you are up against professional manipulators. It doesn’t hurt to have a bag of tips and tricks to better help you resist the sales tactics you’ll face.

Use a Ulysses Contract

A Ulysses Contract is a clever but simple way to force yourself to stick to your goals. For instance, to lose weight, you can lock the cabinet filled with sweets and give the key to your significant other. This act of self-restriction is a form of a Ulysses contract.

Similarly, when attending a timeshare presentation, you can restrict yourself by not taking your checkbook with you. And even though most presentations will require that you have a credit card on hand, you can choose to attend with a card that has a limit far below the price of the timeshares you are about to see.

That way, you are limiting the options available to you and ensuring that no matter how emotionally excited you get, you cannot and, therefore, will not commit to something that you will regret later on.

💳 Learn more: For those using credit cards, this post offers 11 rules to ensure you’re using them wisely .

Be Distant Yet Upfront

We talked about the representative being your best friend. Well, the best thing you can do is be distant and boring.

Any information you provide can and will be used against you. So, if you mention that your kids are about to enter middle school, the representative might talk about how the vacation is for them and not for you. To sell you on the timeshare, the representative will highlight the importance of making memories before the kids are off to college and how you will regret not making the most of this time you have with them.

Alternatively, if you come across as distant and disinterested, the representative will figure out that they probably have no shot with you. So, they will quickly go through the motions and get you out of the door that much faster so they can move on to a better prospect.

Share as little personal information as possible. Don’t discuss your income or assets. You’re just giving the representative more ammunition for their sales pitch.

If you are upfront with the representative and let them know that you have no plans on buying a timeshare and are only there for the free gifts, they will be even less pushy with you.

Remember, the sales representative’s end goal is to make a sale. And if it is clear to them that you are a lost cause, they will try to move on to other prospects who seem more promising.

Don’t Argue

Arguing with a timeshare salesman is a futile effort that helps no one and keeps you at the sales pitch longer than necessary.

If your representative claims that a timeshare is an investment, just nod and smile. On second thought, just nod and don’t even smile.

Don’t bring up the secondhand market or anything else that could drag you into an unnecessary conversation. Unless absolutely necessary, don’t even ask questions.

The only thing you should do is to hold them to their own time limits. So, if they tell you that the entire sales pitch will last 90 minutes, then you should start your stopwatch the second they check you in. You can even stop your representative in the middle of their pitch and remind them that they have 25 minutes left on the clock.

Salespeople will try to wear you down by making the process much longer than the agreed time. Don’t let them get away with it.

Have a Game Plan

You don’t need to give the representative a reason when saying “no,” you should have a host of reasons prepared in the back of your mind. These reasons will strengthen your resolve and protect you when the representative starts tugging at your emotional strings.

Don’t share these reasons, as this would give the representative reason to believe that they could make the sale if they could just overcome your objections.

Another idea you can include in your game plan is to show up for the presentation when they are at their busiest. The busier they are, the more likely they are to finish your entire sales pitch faster so that they can move on to other, more likely buyers. They also won’t pressure you as much because they want to preserve their energy for other people walking into the resort.

I Bought a Timeshare, Now What?

Although you might be on your guard, you still might end up signing a contract. Perhaps you were a little tipsy and couldn’t keep your guard up.

Whatever the reason, you will most likely feel buyer’s remorse. After all, almost 85% of timeshare purchasers end up regretting their decision [3] .

So, what can you do?

Canceling Your Timeshare

The good news is that the consumer protection laws are in your favor as they provide you with a “cooling off” period during which you can rescind your timeshare purchase. This “rescission period” ranges from 3 days to 15 days, depending on your state.

To rescind your timeshare purchase, you will need to carefully read the paperwork you signed, as it will contain the information you need. The process can be a bit complicated. That’s intentional: timeshare companies don’t want you to cancel on them. But if you follow the instructions and don’t give up, you will get your deposit back.

If the rescission period has expired, you face a much greater challenge, and you will have to do some serious research on how to avoid timeshare exit scams and how to get rid of an unwanted timeshare .

👉 Learn more: For those in the timeshare loop, here’s a post outlining some of the best exit companies in the market .

How to Survive a Timeshare Presentation: Putting It All Together

There might be benefits and perks to attending a timeshare presentation. It still doesn’t make any fiscal sense to sign a purchase agreement, especially as the secondhand market is much cheaper.

If you want to attend one of these presentations, then the secret to how to survive a timeshare presentation is you need to have no problem with saying “no” over and over again. You need to be comfortable with not sharing personal information or giving reasons for your refusal. And you need to know how to avoid letting your emotions drag you into a long-term financial commitment.

If all of this applies to you, then enjoy the free tickets, the discounted hotel rooms, and the other juicy incentives. But if none of this applies to you, then spare yourself the hassle and don’t attend the presentation in the first place.

By Ibrahim Zaghw

Contributing writer.

Ibrahim Zaghw is a freelance content writer who helps finance and business-related websites and blogs to both educate and engage their readers. Before being a writer, Ibrahim was a business analyst at a boutique consulting firm. His job was to assess the viability of different business decisions as well as to write detailed business plans for them. Ibrahim graduated from Cairo University as a civil engineer.

To support the facts within our articles FinMasters editorial team uses only high quality primary sources. Read our editorial policy to learn more about how we make sure our content is unbiased, accurate and up-to-date.

[1] https://www.arda.org/number-timeshare-presentations-attended-purchase

[2] https://www.explore.com/1205101/what-is-the-average-cost-of-buying-a-timeshare/

[3] https://finnlawgroup.com/statistics-about-timeshare-rescission/

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Surviving a Timeshare Presentation: Crucial Points for Possible Cancellation

Learn essential tips to survive a timeshare presentation and understand your rights for possible cancellation. Equip yourself with strategies today!

Disclaimer:  Before you talk to any attorney or exit company regarding a timeshare exit, your first step is to contact your resort directly to see if they have an exit program that fits your needs.

Attending a timeshare presentation can be an overwhelming experience, characterized by high-pressure sales pitches and tempting offers that seem too good to refuse. However, being prepared and understanding the underlying sales strategies can greatly enhance your ability to navigate through these presentations effectively. "Surviving a Timeshare Presentation: Crucial Points for Possible Cancellation" offers an in-depth look at the critical aspects of these meetings and what you can do to emerge unscathed—with your finances and rights intact.

Whether you're currently considering a timeshare purchase or reevaluating your ongoing commitment, this article equips you with essential knowledge and strategies from the experts at XTimeshares. You'll learn how to spot common tactics used by sales representatives, understand your contractual rights, and identify key points that can be leveraged for possible cancellation. Prepare to empower yourself with the information necessary to make informed decisions during and after a timeshare presentation.

Recognize High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Timeshare presentations are infamous for their high-pressure sales tactics, and understanding these can be your first line of defense. Sales representatives often create a sense of urgency, suggesting that the deal is a one-time offer that's too good to pass up. They may also place undue pressure by invoking scarcity, suggesting that units are limited or that prices will drastically increase soon. Recognizing these tactics can help you remain calm and collected, enabling you to think critically rather than making an impulsive decision.

Know Your Rights as a Consumer

It's crucial to be aware of your consumer rights prior to attending a timeshare presentation. Many countries and states have specific laws designed to protect consumers in timeshare transactions. These may include a cooling-off period, during which you can cancel a timeshare purchase without penalty after signing. Being informed about these rights can give you the confidence to resist pressure during a presentation and the knowledge to act swiftly if you decide to cancel.

For example, in the United States, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) provides guidelines under which consumers can cancel timeshares within a set period, typically around three days. This cooling-off period ensures that consumers have sufficient time to reassess their decisions and opt out if they feel it’s not right for them.

Document the Presentation Process

When you attend a timeshare presentation, taking detailed notes can be incredibly beneficial. Write down key points mentioned by the salesperson, especially promises about benefits, maintenance fee structures, and details about the cancellation process. This information can be crucial if discrepancies arise between what was promised during the presentation and what your contract actually states.

Additionally, if you feel that the sales tactics employed were unfair or deceptive, having a detailed record can support any claims you might pursue through consumer protection agencies. Remember, any misrepresentation can potentially be a valid legal reason to challenge a timeshare contract.

Understand the Contract Thoroughly

If the presentation leads you to consider signing a timeshare contract, it is paramount to read and understand every detail of the agreement. Look out for:

• Duration of the Timeshare: Ensure you know whether it’s a perpetual contract or if it has a set end date.
• Fees: Be clear about the initial cost, annual maintenance fees, and any other associated charges. Understand how these fees can increase over time.
• Cancellation Clause: Pay particularly close attention to the cancellation or rescission terms, as these will dictate under what circumstances you can exit the timeshare.
• Exchange Systems: If part of the allure is the ability to exchange times and locations, verify the specifics and any fees involved.

It is often beneficial to have a lawyer review the contract before you sign it. They can help clarify any complex legal language and ensure that your rights are protected.

Consider Long-Term Implications

Owning a timeshare is a long-term commitment that can impact your finances and lifestyle for many years. As such, think beyond the presentation and consider whether this timeshare will fit your future vacation needs and financial situation. Will you be able to travel to the same destination every year? Are you prepared for potentially rising maintenance fees? How might this purchase affect your overall financial goals?

Moreover, think about the resale market for the timeshare, should you wish to sell it in the future. Timeshares are notoriously difficult to resell, often depreciating in value quickly. Understanding this aspect can prevent future regrets and financial headaches.

Explore Alternatives to Timeshare Ownership

Before making a commitment to a timeshare, explore alternative vacation ownership options. Vacation clubs, travel subscriptions, or simply saving for trips may offer more flexibility without the binding commitment of a timeshare. These alternatives could provide a better fit for your lifestyle and financial plans, with less risk and more straightforward terms.

Educate Yourself on Possible Exit Strategies

Even with diligent preparation and understanding, you might find yourself in need of exiting a timeshare. Familiarizing yourself with timeshare cancellation services, like those provided by XTimeshares, can prepare you for such scenarios. Knowledge of these services offers peace of mind that there are legitimate pathways to extricate yourself from a timeshare if it no longer suits your needs.

Being well-prepared for a timeshare presentation not only helps you navigate the immediate event but also arms you with the insights needed to make decisions that are in your best long-term interest. Thorough preparation, awareness of your rights, and an understanding of all contractual commitments are essential steps in managing, and if necessary, terminating a timeshare arrangement responsibly.

It's important to choose a company with a good Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating for getting out of a timeshare, as Xtimeshares shows with their focus on being honest and keeping customers happy. This top rating shows that the company is trustworthy, ethical, and good at solving problems. Because timeshare contracts can be complicated and sometimes involve pushy sales tactics, choosing Xtimeshares means that timeshare owners get honest and custom solutions from a trusted provider. This kind of service is crucial for those who want a simple way to cancel their timeshare, giving them reassurance and confidence in resolving their issue.

Secure Your Financial Freedom with Expert Guidance

Navigating a timeshare presentation can be challenging, but with the right knowledge and strategies, you can protect your interests and make informed decisions. If you ever find yourself reconsidering your timeshare commitment, remember that it's not just about surviving the sales pitch—it's about securing your long-term financial and vacation freedom. At XTimeshares, we specialize in providing expert advice and robust solutions for those looking to confidently navigate through or exit their timeshare agreements.

Take the first step towards safeguarding your financial future today. Visit XTimeshares for comprehensive support and guidance tailored to your unique timeshare presentation . Don’t let complexity hold you back—empower yourself with the right help and reclaim your peace of mind.

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5 Timeshare Presentation Tips to Be Empowered, Not Pressured

Who doesn’t love a travel deal? In your search have you seen promotions that seem too good to be true? For example, how can a hotel offer 3 nights accommodation plus water park tickets and a $100 restaurant gift card for $129? That’s because these promotions are from timeshare companies looking to introduce their resort, and timeshare ownership , to new people via a timeshare presentation. It’s totally true – Two hours of your time can “fund” vacations to resorts across the country!

I’m a happy timeshare owner of 15 years, sharing tips and advice for timeshare vacations whether you own one or not! If you’re not a timeshare owner and thought about taking advantage of these travel offers, I’m here to give you the ins and outs of attending a timeshare presentation so you’ll feel confident and empowered and never talked into buying something you don’t want or can’t afford.

It’s important to know that timeshares are more complicated to sell than a home or vacation condo, and it’s overwhelmingly a buyer’s, not a seller’s, market. So never let yourself be talked into buying a timeshare or any other serious, large purchase!

Wait, What is a Timeshare?

If you’re thinking to yourself “What is a Timeshare Exactly?!?” Timeshares are partial vacation ownerships of condo-like units in resort developments. They are owned, operated, and maintained by independent resorts, small chains, and large timeshare companies like Hilton Grand Vacations Club, Club Wyndham, Marriott Vacation Club, Holiday Inn Club Vacations, Hyatt Residence Club and Disney. You might have stayed in a timeshare rental before without realizing it! 

Timeshare sales is big business! In 2019, there was $10.2 billion (yes billions!) in timeshare purchases in America. That’s almost twice as much as Sephora’s sales. The global vacation ownership market is expected to reach $40 billion in 2023. In order to grow their business, they need to sell timeshares to……. You! Remember, just like Facebook, if something is free, YOU are the product being sold.

As with any large commitment, it is important to consider the legally binding financial relationship that you are entering when purchasing a timeshare. This is not the type of decision to make on a whim, three margaritas deep while on vacation at the resort.  Can your budget (and your emergency fund) comfortably cover all of the costs? Even the annual maintenance fees during job loss, retirement, or a pandemic? 

Where are these Timeshare Presentation Promotions?

These timeshare presentation promotions can be found both online and in person. While I’ve personally never seen them in person, fellow timeshare owners have reported timeshare promotion kiosks in destinations with tons of timeshare resorts like Las Vegas, Orlando, and Branson offering a free vacation in exchange for attending a timeshare presentation. If you’re looking to build an entire “free” vacation, you can credit card hack your way to free flights, too!

If you’re looking online these cheap vacation packages can be found via a simple Google search. For example, the website Timeshare Orlando (at the time of this publication) had 12 different resort promotions listed. Here’s a flavor of the type of promotions that are offered. They often come with a gift card covering most or all of the price of the booking cost.

Last year Karee Blunt from our Woven Journey took advantage of one of these timeshare presentation travel deals at Tahiti Village in Las Vegas. In her experience , it was worth it to sit through a presentation to score free vacation accommodations.

“We took a chance on a free timeshare presentation deal and are happy to say it worked out just fine. For 90 minutes of our time, we enjoyed three free nights at a family-friendly resort in Las Vegas with a lazy river and beautiful pool! Even though we knew we weren’t planning on buying the timeshare package, we are interested in traveling and looked at it as a chance to learn more about our options. In the end, we said no thanks and simply went on our way.”

If you want to score these hotel promotions like Karee, and rock attending these timeshare presentations it’s important to educate yourself so you don’t get pressured into buying something on a whim. Here’s are my 5 Tips to Attend Timeshare Presentations Empowered!

Tip#1: Double Check that You Meet Their Qualifications

These deals can be an amazing way to travel on the cheap, but you have to meet the qualifications outlined in the Terms and Conditions.  Remember, by making this type of promotional reservation, you are confirming that you meet their requirements and promise to attend a timeshare presentation.  Here’s a variety of conditions found in the fine print to give you a sense:

• Couples living in the same household with a combined income of $50,000; Must have the same address on their ID; Must attend the timeshare presentation together
• Single people 30 years of age and older with an annual income of 45K or more may qualify
• Must be currently employed
• Must be creditworthy (no bankruptcies, foreclosures, or liens in the past two years)
• Cannot be in the process of home loan modifications/refinance
• Must pay 13% room tax and $20.00 daily resort fee due at check-in
• Must have a credit card that is not connected to a debit account
• Only for the U.S. Residents that reside in AL, AK, AZ, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE, DC, FL, GA, IL, IN, IA, KS, KT, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MS, MO, MT, NV, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OK, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WA, WI, WY.

Tip #2: The Timeshare Presentation is Required. Seriously

By booking this reservation, you agree to go to a timeshare presentation and cannot skip it. The reason they are offering room accommodations for free, or close to it, is to get people to attend these meetings. A majority of timeshare purchases are made during these presentations, so timeshare companies know the more people who attend, the more sales they can make.

Listen, they are not playing around with this requirement. If you do not go to a timeshare presentation your credit card will be charged the full retail price of the accommodations, or a flat fee of around $300, depending on the resort. You have to hold up your side of this travel deal and can’t get out of it. 

Tip #3: Set Your Phone Timer

You agreed to attend a timeshare presentation to get this offer, but only for the amount of time listed in the promo fine print – and not one second longer. You’re on vacation, don’t waste half a day in a hotel conference room.  If the promo you booked says a 90-minute timeshare presentation, start your phone timer the minute the meeting begins. Once you’ve given your time, your obligation is fulfilled. Period. 

Do not let them tell you otherwise, make you feel bad or talk you into spending any more time with them.  Something as simple as, “Thanks for sharing this information with me. The required 90 minutes is up. Take care!  Get out of your seat and go back to enjoying your vacation. 

Tip #4: Keep Your ID and Credit Card in Your Own Hand

Yes, you are required to “present” an ID or Credit card, but present it in your own hand. Do not let them keep it or take it anywhere. If I was at a car dealership shopping for a car I’d do the exact same thing.  If they give you a hard time, play their fine print language back to them, and stay friendly. “I’m presenting you my ID. I only give my ID to customs at the airport. Or when a police officer pulls me over for speeding.” Laugh, and smile! A little light-heartedness goes a long way!   

This piece is critical because if they have your ID or credit card, it will be tough to get it back once your phone timer goes off. If you have all of your items in your wallet, you can leave once your part of the deal is done.  If they have your stuff, you’re kinda a hostage in a timeshare presentation. I’ve been there at a car dealership and it’s not fun.

Tip #5: Arm Yourself with a Resale Listing

Are there some bad apples in a barrel? Yes. Are there some high-pressure sales tactics? Yes. If you find yourself in a very uncomfortable timeshare sales pitch, show them a printout of a resale listing for their exact resort and ask them if they can match the price.  Spoiler: They can’t. You’ll be at the pool before you know it. 

What Is a Timeshare Resale Listing?

Did you know there is a resale market for timeshares where existing owners sell their unwanted timeshares to other people? You can save 75 to 99% of resort sales price by buying a timeshare in the resale market. These are the timeshare deals that the salesperson won’t tell you about! Timeshare Users Group (TUG), the oldest and largest timeshare owners group and advocacy organization hits it right on the head when they say, “Why would anyone buy from a resort if they could get the exact same “used condo” week, at the exact same resort property, for pennies on the dollar from an existing owner?”

Where Can You Find Timeshare Resale Listings?

One of the best places to find timeshare resale listings is TUG’s owner-to-owner marketplace.  It is one of the largest and most visited timeshare classified ad sites on the internet, with $30 million in timeshare sales, $18 million in owner direct timeshare rentals, and one-week vacation exchanges between timeshare owners. If you can’t find the resort you are visiting there, check out Redweek.com, the largest online marketplace for timeshare sales and rentals. Both sites are fantastic, reliable resources to arm yourself with information for timeshare presentations.

To receive more travel tips, activity inspirations, and some personal finance tips to fund those bucket list vacations subscribe below for monthly emails.

Monica Fish helps her fellow adventurers live a financially savvy life so they can travel and explore our beautiful world no matter their budget. She writes about smart timeshare ownership, vacation tips and tricks, NYC Metro Area trips and activities, and frugal, yet rich, living at PlannerAtHeart.com.

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How To Get Out Of A Timeshare Presentation When Traveling

Depending on where you're traveling, you might get solicited by timeshare sales representatives who want to rope you into ownership options. This can often happen if you stay at a resort, since sales representatives can see that you have an interest in travel and already like the area. Maybe you are genuinely curious and want to get a timeshare. There are some famous ones, like the Disney Vacation Club , that offer ways to make it worth your while.

What'll likely happen is that you'll get invited to a presentation, where the reps will offer a sales pitch on getting in on the "deal." To incentivize guests, they'll lure people in with wonderful freebies. In some cases, these are worth sitting through the presentation for. In other cases, they're completely not. The problem is that these timeshare presentations can be super tough to get out of. Reps often have several strategies to wear guests down in an effort to get them to sign on, and it can feel overwhelming. There are ways to get out, even if you feel completely roped in. And hey, you can even walk out with the perks that were promised.

You can say 'no' through the whole timeshare presentation

Timeshare presentations lure people in with appealing incentives, and the reps who put them on know exactly how to make guests feel welcomed and, at times, compelled to go along with the process. Because of this, it can be challenging to get out of a presentation once you're there. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, you have complete agency. If you want to leave at any point during the presentation, no matter how pressured you feel to stay, you are free to do so. If anyone tries to block your exit, you have every right to call the police. Hopefully things won't come to that, though.

If a sales representative tells you that a presentation is only 20 minutes long, you can take note of the time and even set a timer on your phone. Your vacation time is precious and if a certain time frame was the expectation that was set, then you can absolutely hold the rep to it. Don't feel pressured into signing anything on the spot. If you truly want to consider an offer, then take the document with you and look it over when you have more room to breathe or even have an attorney look it over with you. Don't be shy to say "no" also. Sales representatives will be persistent if they think you are genuinely mulling something over. If you're certain you don't want a timeshare, say so clearly and without hesitation.

You can get the freebies

The reason that people sit through timeshare presentations is because of the freebies and perks that sales representatives offer to lure people in. They'll offer anything from free flights, free restaurant gift cards, free hotel stays, travel points, and more. You can still get some of the freebies offered, though, even if you don't buy a timeshare. The site Lifehacker offered tips and opened the comments for feedback on how people still got the perks without getting roped into anything. "My wife is the same and wants to do this almost every time we go to Vegas," user @thatdamnpaul wrote in the comments about going to timeshare presentations. "We usually hit up one the first or second morning we're there and have scored free Cirque tickets, dinners, even casino chip credits." Many users agreed that it's good to attend with another person and have roles clearly defined, with one of you acting as the tough guy, who has agreed to say "no" under every possible circumstance. That way you won't get talked into anything and can still walk out with the gift.

Many people on Reddit talked about the experience too on the forum r/DaveRamsey . Some users did have success getting freebies with no commitment. "Yes, my husband and I did this. We went on the free two-night trip to a fancy golf course, had a nice time, and flatly refused to buy anything," Reddit user r/oaktreegardener wrote. However, many said it wasn't worth the time.

8 timeshare sales tactics—and how to resist them during a pitch

If you’ve ever attended a high-pressure timeshare pitch, you’ll definitely agree with me: They are intense. They are persuasive. And they might even put big pressure on your marriage. But a timeshare presentation doesn’t have to threaten to send you to couples counseling; you can absolutely resist the most common timeshare sales tactics—if you know what to look for.

My husband and I have gone to two timeshare pitches: One in Hawaii on our belated honeymoon and one in Vancouver, Washington. I learned so much both times, and I’m happy to say my marriage is stronger than ever. That’s not by accident: We found ways to stay strong together in timeshare presentations and resist the wedges the salespeople are trained to drive between couples during their pitch. Now I’m sharing those timeshare sales tactics with you—so you can earn that free vacation, resist being manipulated into buying something you don’t actually want, and still have your partner to travel with!

Whether you’re a timeshare pitch veteran or are considering attending one for the first time (and for the promise of a free vacation, amirite?!), you need these tested hacks Hubs and I learned firsthand to survive a timeshare pitch.

Survive a timeshare pitch as a couple

Chances are, you or your partner has been approached by a timeshare company to attend a presentation selling points or owning a timeshare. Stats back this up: The timeshare industry has grown consistently over the last 8 years, and sales of timeshares has increased by more than a quarter since 2013, according to industry research .

That’s a lot of people buying timeshare properties and points.

In fact, industry insiders suggest that about 15% of people buy a timeshare after listening to a pitch—yet many feel pressured or intimidated into making the purchase.

All that confusion and hardball sales tactics can be hard on your relationship (and you’ll probably have to attend as a couple, as many timeshare companies require you to decide to buy together). Hard feelings are common especially if one person in your couple is more of a green light than the other.

But you don’t have to end a timeshare pitch with resentment, hurt feelings or a sense of #fomo. You and your partner can resist heavy-handed timeshare sales tricks and keep your bond as strong as ever. Here’s how.

8 timeshare sales tactics—and hacks to resist them

1. know your goals and resources.

The sales pitch: Playing to emotions. Salespeople use the timeshare sales trick of relying on your emotions to make a gut decision to purchase a timeshare. After all, you probably didn’t go into the timeshare presentation planning to buy (and they definitely know that); even still, timeshares are wildly successful—because they manage to sell them even to couples that didn’t intend to buy.

Beat the sales tactic: Take a hard look. Before you step into the sales presentation, know your resources: How much discretionary spending do you have in your budget? How much vacation time do you have? Knowing these facts ahead of time will help you resist the dream of staying in a timeshare property 6 weeks a year if you only get 2 weeks of PTO.

How it worked for us: We had recently bought a minivan (aka #swaggerwagon!) before we attended a timeshare presentation. So to survive a timeshare pitch, we just had to remind each other that any wiggle room in our budget was now caught up in the four wheels that would have to drive us to our more modest, budget-friendly vacations for at least a while longer.

2. Play as a team

The sales pitch: Playing couples off each other. When you have a tangled necklace, you start to tease the chain apart by starting with the looser end. The same goes for timeshare sales techniques: They approach the sale by targeting the more enthusiastic or susceptible half of the couple. Once they have one person convinced, he or she often persuades the hesitant person.

Beat the sales technique : Go in with an agreement. If you’re attending the timeshare presentation just for the free gift or vacation (no judgment!), be up front about that with each other—from the beginning.

How it worked for us: The promise of two free plane tickets and two nights’ stay in a hotel persuaded me to sign up for the timeshare presentation in the first place, and that’s how I convinced Hubs to come (though I also told him I’d cancel it in a heartbeat if he gave a hard no).

3. Have a kill switch

The sales pitch: Now or never. At some point, timeshare salespeople have to close—to make a hard sell. If a potential customer isn’t going to buy, they’ll have to cut their losses and move on, but they’ll use all their timeshare sales tactics to get you to say “yes.”

Beat the sales tactic: Establish veto power. To survive a timeshare pitch, agree that either person in your couple can say a hard no—and that will be the end of the story.

How it worked for us: I signed up for the most recent timeshare presentation while I was at a home show, and the way I got Eric to go to the pitch in the first place was to establish this rule. He knew he could say no and I would agree, regardless of how I felt about it. It cemented a sense of trust between us that neither of us would be pressured, and that we always had a way out if buying a timeshare wasn’t worth it.

4. Know your roles

The sales pitch: Appealing to the more enthusiastic partner. Timeshare salespeople know that one person in the couple is more likely to be open to buying a timeshare, so it makes sense that they appeal to the more gung-ho person. They’ll encourage that person’s enthusiasm or curiosity by encouraging them to imagine a family vacation in one of the wonderful spots they’ll show you.

Beat the sales tactic: It’s easy to get caught up in the possibilities of owning a timeshare property. Being aware that you may fall into this dream—in spite of your logic or any promises you made to absolutely not buy a timeshare —helps prevent some of the in-the-moment excitement.

How it worked for us: Based on our first timeshare pitch experience, we knew I’m more susceptible to the timeshare sales tactics; in Hawaii, I was ready to buy into the timeshare—even though we barely had enough money to pay our cell phone bill! So we knew that to survive a timeshare pitch this time, Hubs would have to stay strong and be the voice of reason during the “discussion time” salespeople leave you to have.

5. Don’t rush

The sales pitch: Claim the deal won’t last forever. Timeshare salespeople create a sense of urgency around buying a timeshare because they’re about a zillion times more likely to sell a timeshare while you’re there in the presentation room. They know they need to close the deal in that moment, and applying subtle pressure to buy immediately makes people more likely to buy a timeshare.

Beat the sales technique: Timeshares have been around for decades, and they’re not going anywhere. Salespeople will show you deals they have just for that day (which are way cheaper than the ones available on other days), but honestly, you’ll always be able to get a good deal if you want.

How it worked for us: Hubs, who was the more level-headed half of our couple and who definitely helped us survive the timeshare pitch, reminded me that we can always sign up for another timeshare presentation down the line if we do decide it’s a good fit for our family. There is no shortage of timeshare opportunities.

6. Evaluate your vacations

The sales pitch: Inspire huge vacation dreams. Timeshare salespeople will show you examples of the most beautiful, luxurious timeshare properties in the most desirable locations to make you imagine the best vacation ever. Bali! The Maldives! Tahiti! They’ll have you dreaming up vacations in places you’d never wanted to visit—until this timeshare pitch.

Beat the sales technique: Before even stepping into the timeshare pitch, you and your partner should talk through the kinds of vacations you take today and the kinds of vacations you want to take in the future. Those kinds of vacations might not match with buying a timeshare.

How it worked for us: During the timeshare presentation, Hubs and I used our family’s lifestyle as a touchstone to resist the sales technique. We do a lot of camping, we bring our dog on most vacations, and many of our trips center around visiting family in locations where the timeshare company didn’t have any properties. In this way, we were able to logically see that the timeshare didn’t actually make sense for our family.

7. Read body language

The sales pitch: Taking cues from body language. Salespeople of all stripes are expert at reading subtle cues from potential customers. Are they leaning forward? Are their hands on the table? Are they constantly looking at the clock? They use this body language to fine-tune their delivery.

Beat the sales tactic: Keep tabs on your partner’s body language, from how they are sitting to what they’re doing with their arms. This will clue you in to see if they’re digging the experience or getting defensive. That way you can mirror their attitude and present a united front to the salesperson.

How it worked for us: At one point in the most recent timeshare pitch we attended, Eric crossed his arms and leaned back in his chair. This body language told me that he’d been triggered by something the salesperson said. Knowing him, I was able to figure out that the salesperson’s tactic—to suggest we were depriving our kids of family vacations if we didn’t buy—touched a nerve. Because I was paying attention, I could see that he was ready to be done.

8. Remember the free gift

The sales pitch: All or nothing. Timeshare salespeople design their presentations to make you feel as if you  must buy in the moment—or lose out big. They focus on what you can have with the not-so-subtle suggestion that you’ll have wicked #fomo if you say no.

Beat the sales technique: When you’re caught up in the sales pitch, it can feel as if you lost when you say “no”—even if that was your goal to begin with. You also might leave feeling manipulated or put down. So when you leave, remind yourself of whatever free gift you earn when you survive a timeshare pitch. Having a free vacation to look forward to will help put a positive spin on even a negative experience.

How it worked for us: Before we attended the timeshare presentation, we talked about where we wanted to go. We decided on Phoenix because I’ve never been there, we wanted a destination that was relatively close to our home in Oregon, and we wanted a warm and sunny vacation to take in the winter. So when we left the timeshare pitch, we already had a fun plan to look forward to.

Finally, I hinted that I would buy some new lingerie for our free vacation—and that didn’t hurt either! #hubbahubbah

Are timeshares worth it? That all depends.

This post isn’t meant to be a guide on saying no to timeshare pitches—unless that’s what you want to do. If timeshares genuinely fit with your lifestyle, budget and travel goals, hooray! Buy a timeshare! (or two, ha!)

That said, I don’t love a lot of the timeshare sales tactics, and many of them put uncomfortable pressure on couples. The presentations are crafted to manipulate you into buying, regardless of if buying a timeshare is a right fit for your family.

Either way—if timeshares are worth it for you or not—I know these tips to survive a timeshare pitch as a couple will help you emerge with your relationship intact.

I’m curious: Do you have any timeshare pitch horror stories, or any that went surprisingly well? Do you have tips to survive a timeshare pitch? Share in the comments below!

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Bet the timeshare people hate you! Awesome article and you’re absolutrly right. I’m also the one more likely to get excited…

Ha! Well they have to know 99% of people go into those meetings not intending to buy.

This is a very important article! Some salespeople are super aggressive, and I am not a fan of the ways in which they pressure people. Glad you shared this!

I hear you. It feels icky to be pressured, but if you know the tactics they’ll likely use, you can guard against them.

I’ve never been approached by someone pitching this kind of sale, but these are great tips to keep in mind. Pinning this so others can read!

Thank you for sharing, Lecy! It really does pay to know how you’ll be targeted. That way you don’t fall into a trap you didn’t see coming.

We have been on so many vacations where we are bugged to show up to an information time share session. I have never been to one but nice tips in case I find myself in one some day!

I swear the vacation industry relies so heavily on these kinds of pitches. I’m surprised you haven’t gotten roped into one!

What a great post to write Catherine! I always wondered what went on in those timeshare meetings. You give a great game plan!

That’s the thing: People don’t know what they’re getting into when they agree to a time share pitch! Glad this shed some light, Erin.

Love all these tips! Thanks for sharing!

Anytime, Amanda. Thanks for reading 🙂

Lol. My husband and I have sat through two of these pitches- the last one 10 years ago in Disney world for some upgrade perks. We still joke about it now- ten years later.

I’m so glad you can joke about it together! My husband still gets FURIOUS whenever the time share pitch in Hawaii comes up in conversation.

I’ve not been abroad since I was a kid but I remember my mum and dad getting approached about time shares ALL the time whenever we went!

Time share pitches can be a great way to save money on travel and activities – but only if you manage to not be persuaded into buying if you don’t actually want to buy.

So informative and practical Catherine. Any advice for those of us who already own a timeshare and want to get out?

Hm, I haven’t had to do this personally. I do know there are some companies that will help but I haven’t heard about how reputable they are. I think some facilitate selling your timeshare to other buyers. Sorry I can’t be of more help!

Thank you for this posting! I know a few people who have timeshares and they enjoy them. But my parents had 2 (they are in their 80’s now), and they ended up spending $5k to sell them. I’m sure they may not have known the best route for selling, but in this time in their life they just wanted out. Selling timeshares isn’t always easy. I didn’t want to “inherit” the timeshares, because I saw that my parents STILL had to pay timeshare fees and expenses, even though the timeshares were paid off. If you can’t go every year, then it’s a waste of money. And yes, you can trade or pay extra to go to resorts that are not in that specific location, but that limits where you can go each year. Like you said, I’m not against timeshares, but it is a bigger commitment than the salespeople tell you. All of that said, I’m considering visiting a timeshare promotion in Orlando with my kids this summer. Ready for the sales pitch at the end …. 😉

Absolutely, Susie — timeshares are not bad! My in-laws are members of two different ones, and they take full advantage of them. It’s just important to know what you’re in for during a timeshare pitch so you’re not persuaded into something that won’t work for you.

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How To Survive a Timeshare Presentation

You go on vacation to relax and enjoy some much-needed time away. And, while seeing the sights you come across a visitor’s center. They offer free tickets or discounts on local attractions in exchange for attending a timeshare presentation. It’s only 90 minutes and before you know it, you’ve decided to go for the freebies. At this point, you might be wondering how to survive a timeshare presentation.

Timeshare Presentation Survival: What to Know

Before committing to a timeshare presentation, it’s essential to be well-prepared and informed about what the experience entails. The duration of these presentations can be quite lengthy, often taking up a significant portion of your day. Here are some detailed factors to ponder:

• Family Considerations : If you’re contemplating attending with your family, think about the members who will be accompanying you. For instance, if you have younger children, their patience and attention span might be tested during a long presentation. It’s crucial to gauge whether they’ll be comfortable and entertained throughout the session or if alternative arrangements should be made for them.
• Duration of the Presentation : A standard timeshare presentation can last anywhere from 3 to 5 hours. It’s not just a quick sales pitch; it often involves a tour of the resort, a detailed presentation, and a Q&A session. Assess your own comfort level and stamina for such a duration. If sitting or engaging for extended periods is challenging for you, it might be worth reconsidering.
• Physical Well-being : Your physical state can significantly impact your experience. If you’re someone who gets hungry often or has medical conditions like low blood sugar, it’s advisable to eat a substantial meal before the presentation. Feeling hungry or light-headed during a lengthy session can be distracting and uncomfortable.
• Scheduling Conflicts : Before locking in your attendance, review your itinerary for the day. If you have other activities or commitments planned post-presentation, ensure there’s ample time between them. Timeshare presentations can sometimes run longer than anticipated, and you wouldn’t want to feel rushed or miss out on other experiences.

Surviving the Timeshare Presentation: A Breakdown of the Resort Tour Framework

Knowledge is power. When you’re equipped with a clear understanding of what awaits you in a timeshare presentation, you’re better positioned to navigate it with confidence and discernment.

Let’s delve deeper into the intricacies of a resort tour to shed light on the sequence and strategies employed during timeshare presentations:

• Building Rapport : The initial phase of the presentation is all about establishing a connection. The timeshare greeter, often with a warm smile and friendly demeanor, will initiate a conversation to build rapport. Their goal is to make you feel comfortable and welcomed. They’ll inquire about your hometown, the purpose of your visit, your travel frequency, and perhaps even your favorite vacation spots. These aren’t just casual questions; they serve a dual purpose. Firstly, they aim to create a friendly atmosphere, and secondly, they gather information that will be invaluable for the sales team.
• Tailored Sales Pitch : Based on the information you provide during the rapport-building phase, the salesperson will customize their pitch. They’re trained to highlight aspects of the timeshare that align with your interests and travel habits. For instance, if you mention you love beach vacations, expect to hear about the resort’s beachfront properties or water-based activities.
• Visual Engagement : To make the offering more tangible and enticing, many timeshare presentations include a short film or multimedia presentation. This visual aid typically showcases the resort’s amenities, testimonials from satisfied timeshare owners, and perhaps even a glimpse into potential vacation destinations. The aim is to immerse you in the experience and evoke a sense of desire.
• Property Tour : After the multimedia segment, you’ll be escorted through select units or properties. This hands-on experience allows you to visualize yourself in the space, assess the quality of accommodations, and ask any questions about the facilities. It’s a tactile approach to selling, making the idea of ownership more tangible.
• The Sit-Down : Once the tour concludes, you’ll be ushered to a cozy setting, often a small table or private area, where the actual sales pitch intensifies. Here, the salesperson will discuss the various timeshare vacation packages, pricing structures, and potential benefits. They might present special offers or limited-time deals to entice a commitment.

While the process might seem straightforward, remember that every step is meticulously planned to persuade and influence potential buyers. Being aware of these tactics can help you make informed decisions and ensure you’re not swayed solely by the allure of persuasive sales techniques.

The Art of the “Today Only” Close

Now comes the closer with a deal you would be foolish to say no to. But, that’s where the price drops start. And, there are several before that sales rep gets tapped out with let’s “Meet the Manager.” All of this is by design, a scripted and rehearsed program to get you in front of the boss. That person is trained to overcome any objection and they have the authority to help you decide on the spot. Similarly to car sales, the manager is going to ask…What’s it take to do a deal today? This is often referred to as the “Today Only” close.

These high-pressure tactics can be intense during a timeshare presentation, which is why it’s important to be prepared. Remember, you are not obligated to purchase a timeshare just because you sit through the presentation or for any other reason, including gifts or incentives to attend. If at any time you feel like you’re being pressured into making a decision, simply say that you need time to think about it and excuse yourself. The worst thing you can do is make a rash decision that you’ll regret later. We’ve recently talked about buyers’ regret in our timeshare blog and how to avoid it.

How to End a Timeshare Presentation

After employing the tips mentioned above during a timeshare presentation, it’s important to know how to effectively bring the presentation to a close without making any commitments.

Here’s how to end a timeshare presentation gracefully:

• Express Gratitude : Thank the salesperson for their time and the information they have provided. This sets a polite tone and shows that you respect their effort.
• Be Clear and Concise : Clearly state that you are not interested in purchasing a timeshare. Avoid giving reasons that could be countered with more sales pitches. Simply say, “Thank you, but I am not interested.”
• Decline Additional Offers or Incentives : The salesperson might attempt to entice you with additional offers or incentives. Politely but firmly decline these offers without engaging in further discussion.
• Stand Up : Physically standing up signifies that the conversation has ended. This non-verbal cue is powerful and usually prompts the salesperson to wrap things up.
• Walk Away : Begin to walk towards the exit. If the salesperson continues to engage, repeat that you are not interested and this is the end of the timeshare presentation. Continue walking without stopping.
• Avoid Confrontation : If the salesperson becomes aggressive or confrontational, remain calm. Do not engage in an argument. Simply reiterate your lack of interest and leave the premises.
• Follow Up with a Written Notice : If you feel it’s necessary, you can send a polite written notice to the timeshare company stating that you do not wish to be contacted again.

By following these steps, you can exit a timeshare presentation in a respectful yet assertive manner. Remember that you are under no obligation to make a purchase, and it’s important to stand your ground while remaining polite

Undoing Your Timeshare: The Rescission Window

If you did make a purchase, your next chance at “survival” is to be aware of a rescission period, which will range from 5-10 days if you act within that timeframe. You have a statutory rescission period in which you can cancel or revoke your purchase and receive a full refund of all money paid, depending on the state where you made your purchase.

This is your only opportunity to walk away from your timeshare purchase without any hassle. If you choose to terminate your interest after the expiration of the rescission period , you may well find yourself on a difficult road to travel.

Understanding How to Cancel a Timeshare

Buying a timeshare while on vacation can be exciting, but sometimes people don’t read the fine print right away. If the resort doesn’t point it out, you might miss the chance to cancel or “rescind” your purchase within a specific time.

It’s super important to know how to cancel correctly. You can’t just call the resort and tell them you’ve changed your mind. You have to send them a written notice. The address to send this notice to is usually in the contract, and it’s often not the same as the resort’s main address.

So, always read your contract carefully! Just because the resort doesn’t make it easy to cancel doesn’t mean you can’t. As long as you send a written request within the time frame, they have to accept it.

Termination Options for Timeshare Owners Beyond Rescission Period

If you find yourself a timeshare owner and beyond your rescission period, your termination options are considerably more limited. They include attempting to re-market your interest, attempting to directly negotiate a termination with your developer, looking for a third party such as an “ exit company ”, should search out a timeshare attorney with considerable experience in dealing with these types of termination issues.

Although our opinion is arguably biased, it seems the best argument for whom to hire, is to recognize that since you are attempting to extricate yourself from a legally binding written contract, it makes far more sense to hire a licensed experienced law firm skilled in timeshare contractual issues, than an unlicensed un-credentialed exit company. Furthermore, an experienced timeshare lawyer can significantly limit or eliminate debt collection calls and communications, as well as oversee proper accurate credit reporting , services not offered by exit companies.

Surviving a Timeshare Presentation

It may just be a question of mentally preparing yourself for an extended hard sell sales pitch designed to wear you down over an extended period, arming yourself with knowledge in advance about rescinding a purchase in a correct and timely manner, or perhaps determining the best course is avoiding the experience altogether.

After all, if you do want to buy a timeshare, investigating and purchasing through a licensed real estate broker familiar with the timeshare secondary resale market at around a tenth or less of the developer’s price will avoid both the timeshare presentation itself and the retail cost of buying from the developer.

Disclosure: This article is for information purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Always consult an attorney familiar with timeshare law for specific legal advice.

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Would you sit through a two-hour timeshare sales presentation to get three nights at a hotel in Orlando, plus 15,000 Hilton Honors points — all for $199? How about for dinner or a spa voucher at a Marriott hotel in Dubai? Would three nights in Tahoe plus 10,000 IHG points for $249 be worth enduring a long sales pitch?

Companies dangle generous perks to try to sell you a timeshare, with offers ranging from free parking to free hotel nights to deeply discounted hotel stays — provided you sit through a timeshare sales presentation of 90 minutes or more.

Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering a timeshare sales presentation offer.

How timeshares work

What is a timeshare.

A timeshare is a fractional ownership of a vacation property or vacation property lease — usually at a popular travel destination or resort. It’s a lifetime commitment, although it’s possible to resell it. You’re basically investing in the opportunity to spend a week or more at select properties every year.

Many hotel chains have timeshares, including Hilton , Marriott and IHG .

The question "Is a timeshare a good deal?" is different from the question "Is this timeshare presentation offer a good deal?" Timeshares are often pitched as ways to save money on future vacations. Depending on your travel habits, it’s possible the timeshare pros and cons could tilt in your favor. But in most cases, collecting points and miles redeemable for travel is a better way to save.

But even if you know the timeshare route isn’t for you, that doesn’t necessarily mean you should skip out on the timeshare presentation offer. The perks could be well worth your time.

» Learn more: Are timeshares worth it? Possibly, if you buy smart

Timeshare presentation offers

A timeshare presentation offer is any benefit or discount — like free or reduced hotel stays, bonus points or free spa treatments — that you can receive by agreeing to sit through a timeshare sales presentation. These offers can include things like free parking at a resort where you’re staying, free hotel nights or deeply discounted hotel stays and resort experiences.

To determine whether it’s worth sitting through a presentation, consider the value of the perk being offered. In the case of free parking, you would probably be better off spending $50 to self-park and skip the sales pitch.

Can attending timeshare presentations offer a good deal?

Even still, there are times when sitting through a timeshare presentation can be worth your while. You can find good timeshare deals on offers for discounted stays, free nights and more online — or get offers through phone calls or targeted emails. In some cases, you might decide the savings are worth it.

Tip: Watch out for blackout dates, hidden charges and more

Depending on the hotel chain, your offer could be subject to blackout dates, high-season charges and package expiration dates. Read the terms and conditions carefully.

» Learn more: Find the best hotel credit card for you

Worthwhile timeshare offers, by chain

Here are a few offers from major hotel chains that, depending on how you feel about sitting through a sales pitch, might be worth grabbing.

Hilton has a timeshare presentation offer that gets you a three-night stay in Orlando or Las Vegas, plus 15,000 Hilton points for $199. That’s a pretty decent deal considering that rooms normally cost $175 to $500 per night.

This offer is good at several hotels, including the Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista — an official Walt Disney World hotel. This means it gives its guests additional benefits, such as extra magic hours and access to FastPass. (Note that both services are currently on hold).

Other Hilton offers include a five-night stay at a resort in Hawaii for $649 plus taxes. The online offer includes 15,000 points. But a recent phone call to Hilton proved that sales representatives have some leeway to negotiate, in this case switching the offer to 5,000 Hilton points and a $200 Hilton gift certificate.

There are two different Hilton packages available for Hawaii — you can pick either Honolulu or the Big Island. Considering room rates here often hover around $500 per night, you can save a bundle by sitting through a timeshare presentation. For example, five nights in September 2021 at the Ocean Tower at the Hilton Waikoloa Village cost about $1,891.

That’s a big discount, not counting that $200 gift certificate and the value of those points, at a sprawling oceanfront resort featuring a saltwater lagoon.

Marriott Vacation Club has a number of specials for travelers willing to attend a timeshare presentation. In Dubai, for example, you can score two free nights at a number of hotels throughout the Middle East.

You can also participate in timeshare presentation in exchange for a dinner or spa voucher at select Marriott hotels in Dubai.

IHG’s vacation club is extending offers for properties in Gatlinburg, Tennessee; New Orleans; Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; and Lake Tahoe, Nevada; among others.

At the Lake Tahoe resort, you can pay $249 plus tax and get three nights in a one-bedroom villa at the Holiday Inn Club Vacations: Tahoe Ridge Resort, as well as 10,000 IHG points .

Considering three nights at that resort can cost upward of $1,000, the timeshare presentation offer may be well worth it.

Some IHG hotels cost as little as 8,000 points per night, which means you can turn those 10,000 points into another free night.

Who qualifies for timeshare presentation offers?

Not everyone will qualify for these offers. Requirements vary by chain, so check the details of your offer before committing to one of these packages.

In the case of Hilton, you must not have attended a timeshare presentation within the past year at the property where you’ll be staying or within the last six months at any other properties. You’ll also need to meet certain other criteria, though they don’t publish details about what these are.

For Marriott’s Vacation Club offer in Dubai, you must be a married couple 30 to 65 years old with a joint income of over $130,000 who has traveled to Europe at least once in the past three years.

IHG’s Holiday Inn Club, meanwhile, requires that you be older than 25 with a minimum income of $50,000.

If you’re tempted by a timeshare presentation offer

Are all timeshare presentation offers a good deal? No, especially if you’re staying somewhere cheap or they’re just handing out free parking. But if you do some research, you can score serious discounts in truly exciting locations.

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How to avoid/navigate a Timeshare Presentation in Mexico

By: Author Rob Taylor

Posted on Published: August 4, 2022  - Last updated: January 30, 2024

When we first went to Mexico years ago, we landed and breezed through customs and out the door to head to our hotel in Cabo San Lucas. That night we heard about a free breakfast with an open bar and were totally excited. The next morning we spent 2+ hours in a timeshare presentation. So this article is all about how to avoid a timeshare presentation in Mexico .

Yes, this is actually something I’m going to teach you about right now. When you land in Cabo, in Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, anywhere, there are timeshare sales people everywhere. You might not even realize it, but you’re going to come in contact with somebody in your first hour in Mexico trying to sell you a timeshare. You may be thinking that it won’t be a problem or won’t happen to you, but think again.

Note :  we own and love our timeshare . We bought it in 2006 and still use it happily every year. Check out our article on timeshare ownership here.

What is a timeshare presentation

I can’t assume that everyone knows what a timeshare is, let alone a timeshare presentation. Fractional ownership of a property has been around for decades. It’s where a hotel or resort sells either specific units of inventory or blocks a set number of room nights for those who’ve bought into their property. A timeshare is owning a slice of dedicated space somewhere that you can use over time and within limits.

A timeshare presentation is the process of learning about a specific fractional ownership scenario and being sold into it. We feel it’s important to know how to avoid timeshare presentations because this process can be anywhere from an hour to even three or four hours of your vacation.

Know that you don’t want to stay at a timeshare centric hotel? Shop around!

If you’re going to say yes to a timeshare pitch…

Even the strongest of wills may succumb to a timeshare pitch when it’s put before them. If you’re going to say yes to attending/participating, here are the things to make sure of during your very first initial conversation:

• Do NOT pay cash for more than the actual cost of planned transportation to your hotel
• Do NOT agree to participate if you’re pressed for time
• Do NOT say yes to visiting a remote location that will eat up your time just to get there
• DO negotiate that in exchange for your time you’re being compensated with fun (more on that below)
• DO get a very clear understanding of the time commitment and what YOU get for attending
• DO push the person signing you up to do things quickly

What to expect of a timeshare presentation

You’ll start your timeshare presentation by meeting a charismatic individual, most likely tan and wearing some top of the line resortwear. You’ll just “enjoy breakfast and hear about the property.” Yes, there may be some free drinks, but that’s not a guarantee and it’s definitely not a reason to make your family sit through a sales pitch.

After breakfast, you’ll stroll around the property… or worse, you’ll get into a luxury van to take you off-property to someplace on the other side of town. Once actually touring you’ll be shown a variety of suites that you don’t need or have any interest in “but you can bring your family and friends back to each year…” And then you say no because it’s too much space or whatever, then they show you a smaller option still with all the amenities, and you still say no.

When you think you’re done and ready to get your goodies for being a good participant the closer comes out to give you a quick survey about the property and presentation. This closer also has some other questions about costs and if that’s what turned you off… because they just had some inventory open up for one third the cost of what you were just told.

You say no, you’re still not interested, but they ask what you could afford if you wanted to buy. You say no, but they have one last unit or time-slot available that’s now one tenth the cost of the initial presentation…

Tip :  there are ways to experience a timeshare style vacation without buying. A test drive is always a good idea.

That’s what you should expect from a timeshare presentation. We’ve done them at several properties, including where we actually do own a timeshare, and it’s always the same process and approach. “No thank you, I don’t want to buy a private beachfront hacienda that will actually cost me $12K per year plus extras.”

How to Avoid a Timeshare Presentation

As I said, even the strongest will may succumb to a timeshare presentation. They come to you with different names: free breakfast, owner’s tour, vacation club, resort tour… What may seem like a harmless half hour is more than meets the eye, and the salespeople are everywhere.

So, how to you actually avoid the timeshare wave that will inevitably wash over you? Stay focused and stick to what you’ve already planned.

• Before leaving on your trip, we recommend booking your transportation to your resort/hotel. Having this conquered you’ve already made the whole experience much easier if you can hold your ground.
• When you exit customs, just walk straight through to the exit or car rental desk. Nobody knows you or your needs. Just move on.
• At your hotel, you DO NOT have to attend any special events or meals. This is YOUR vacation, not theirs. Do not accept any reservation for anything you don’t want to do.
• If a random stranger in a collared shirt greets you somewhere and asks where you’re staying, reply with “At a great place. Have a nice day!” and politely move on.

Will power. That’s the key to avoiding getting roped into a timeshare presentation.

Where to avoid timeshare salespeople

I mentioned that there is a swamp of timeshare salespeople at the airport, and it’s true. Once you’re clear of the initial wave of polo-shirt-wearing friends, you’ll be at a rental car counter, in the airport or off-site. WARNING : there are timeshare reps here too. As you’re choosing your rental car, somebody may offer an upgrade for you or to cover X number of days of your rental if you can attend a resort tour. And there are more people still before you even get into your hotel room. While it may not be this blatant on Oahu or at a Florida resort , Cancun and Cabo San Lucas are both very intense with timeshare pushing.

Places to be aware of timeshare salespeople include (from landing to departure):

• Airport, post-security
• Rental car counter, in airport and off-site
• Grocery store entrance, they may offer to direct you within the store
• Your own hotel lobby, including the nice ladies with welcome drinks
• By your own resort pool
• On the beach or in a beachfront bar
• At the mall or air conditioned public space
• Waiting just outside of your hotel’s entrance gate

Seriously, you can avoid timeshare sales people every ten minutes if you’re in the main areas of nearly any resort town in Mexico. Just be aware and ready to keep your vacation your own.

Wading through airport timeshare swamps

As you go through customs and exit, you’ll see people with clipboards and behind desks. They’ll ask if you have transportation arranged already and then offer to help you. You’ll say where you’re going and then they’ll ask if you want a shuttle or private transportation.

Tip :  prearrange your transportation and somebody will actually helpfully get you to them, even if it means you bypass the timeshare sales pitch. People do still want to be helpful.

If you haven’t booked your transportation, allow somebody to assist you, but be strong about whether or not you mind adding a timeshare presentation to your vacation. If you don’t want to do it, just politely decline and reiterate that you just need transportation. They’ll connect you with taxi or private shuttle and you’ll be on your way.

Tips to quickly negotiate timeshare sales pitches

If you do choose to engage in a conversation around attending a timeshare sales pitch, don’t let that delay the start of your vacation. When you talk to somebody at the airport about this, they’ll try to get you to do a presentation at your first possible chance, most likely meeting a representative just outside of your resort. If you’re setting one up at your resort, they’ll be more flexible for scheduling.

Choose a time that’s actually good for you and clarify if JUST ONE adult can go or if the whole family needs to be there.

Once you’ve established that you’ll be doing something with them, you need to be sure that your time is compensated. Usually a first-round timeshare pitch will include offering something like a bottle of tequila and maybe a discounted sunset cruise. No. You are giving your time, not at a discount. What is changing your plans and having an awkward meeting on your vacation worth?

Here’s what we typically negotiate for if we actually say yes to a timeshare presentation:

• Reimbursement for cost of transportation to resort
• A GOOD excursion for our family of four (comped, not at a discount) – we recommend Ecotours in Cabo or Playa del Carmen
• Dining credit to be able to enjoy the hosting resort

Something we’ve also been able to take advantage of with timeshare presentations in the past has been kids club features. Many resorts have some form of protected child area, either to entertain kids while parents do the resort tour or for kids to enjoy later while parents are relaxing at the resort. It’s not available everywhere, but it’s worth checking if you’re going to the trouble.

The second round of timeshare pitch: at your resort

I know, you just went through this at the airport or rental agency, why are you having to deal with this again? When you arrive at your resort in Mexico, chances are that it is a part of a larger network or brand with either other properties you might stay at in the future or the property you’re at specifically has its own fractional ownership. If that’s the case, the resort will tactfully (or sometimes not) feel out if you’ve already been approached by another timeshare company.

Should this happen or should you discover that the property does do presentations, you have a receipt or collateral plan for a rival company that you can use as leverage to have a more simple experience. You’re already at a resort; you’re now ON vacation. If you can make your life and travel experience better by trading in your timeshare presentation voucher for an equal one at your own hotel, you should do it. They most likely have the same options for tours, dining credit and bottles of tequila, so you should be able to convert your presentation to your property.

Note : in Los Cabos you may have been offered a presentation in San Jose, the Corridor, Cabo itself or far to the north. Stick close to your home base if possible.

If you have to broach the situation yourself and directly ask to do a presentation at your own Mexican resort, I’d be very surprised, but if you do but polite about it. I recommend stating your case:  “We said that we’d do a timeshare presentation with X but really like it here. Can we just convert this to do one here?” They’ll probably say yes, but if they don’t go do the other one if you want to. Remember that NOBODY is making you do it, but there are perks if you do.

Surviving a timeshare presentation

It’s time to actually attend your timeshare presentation. Whenever we attend a timeshare presentation we go into it with zero intent of purchasing anything, but always with an open mind to hear what’s available and new in the world of timeshares. We actually love the timeshares that we own and take full advantage of them.

Tip : for the actual breakfast/lunch and tour, we always bring our kids with us for two reasons – 1) they always love it and express that, so we can continually say aloud to the timeshare salesperson that we’re not buying it and 2) antsy kids are an easy out when you need to end the presentation. If you want the kids to go to the childcare, that’s up to you, but they’re good to have around.

As you proceed in the presentation, you’ll hear all about the benefits of ownership, for both the enjoyment/luxury factor and the long term availability. Timeshare salespeople leverage people’s need for vacation and assume that you don’t get to travel enough, so investing in a timeshare guarantees the potential of future vacations. They’ll also talk to you about previous trips you’ve done in hopes of getting conversation about exchanging or trading your timeshare purchase. Ultimately, the goal is to show you all of the ways that a timeshare is good for you .

Note :  most timeshare presentations are said to be 90 minutes. If yours is looking like it’ll go be longer, HOLD THEM TO THE EXPECTATION. Ask to speak to the manager if you try to wrap it and it’s not happening.

The sales pitch is strong and really tantalizing, but if it’s not for you, you need to feel empowered to say no thank you and walk away. If you want to continue on and see if it’s within your budget, go for it.

Heads up : as you finish, there will probably be one more push to get you to buy (I mentioned this before). If you give it a listen, you may actually hear a deal or arrangement that’s doable and you’ll find great value it, but still, WALK AWAY if it’s not right for you.

Before you leave your presentation, be sure that you do collect your compensation for your time. It’s easy to just be done, particularly if the experience was frustrating or if they’ve wasted a ton of your time, but be sure to get your goods.

I hope this has been helpful. We really want to be sure that nobody gets sucked into a timeshare disaster, but also that if there is a good deal that is right for you and your family, that you’re able to take advantage of it.  Please let us know what questions you have, or if you want to share your story of timeshare success (or failure). Sharing experiences is how everybody has better travel down the road!

Want to pin this post or share it with somebody who’s considering a timeshare? Go for it!

Monday 10th of April 2023

I wish I had read this article before leaving for Mexico. We ended up in one yesterday. The deal was quite appealing, but what turned my husband off is they wanted to see our ID. They said it was to abide by Mexican law to make these sales pitches safer for consumers. Wondering what your thoughts are on that?

Tuesday 16th of April 2024

@2td-admin, Hey there! We’re slated to do the 90 minute time share at the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach. In exchange they offered us 50% off an ocean front room with transportation to and from the airport.

My wife and I are firm on saying no. Is it okay if we leave right at the 90 minute mark and still get the rate we were quoted?

Tuesday 11th of April 2023

I'm so sorry. Yes, you do have to show ID and usually flash a CC to show that you are eligible to both purchase and receive what's offered. They should never be writing down your ID number or CC number, but they do validate that you're over 18 or 21 and that a bank has entrusted you with buying power.

Did you end up staying through the whole presentation? Did you purchase something? We do own two timeshares and see their value, but I know that they aren't right for everyone.

Tuesday 14th of February 2023

I wish I read this earlier. My husband and I was trapped in a presentation today for over 3 hours. The exact same thing you mentioned happened to us! Several rounds of pitches and different salesmen keep asking same questions to us and never answers ours. Waste of time.

I'm so sorry. I totally know the feeling and frustration. Was it a company presentation or an independent property? I hope you are able to enjoy the rest of your trip.

Tuesday 30th of August 2022

What happened to the rest of this advice? Curious...

"Note: most timeshare presentations are said to be 90 minutes. If yours is looking like it’ll go be"

Wednesday 14th of September 2022

So sorry! I don't know what happened there. Here's the rest of my thoughts: most timeshare presentations are said to be 90 minutes. If yours is looking like it’ll go be longer, HOLD THEM TO THE EXPECTATION. Ask to speak to the manager if you try to wrap it and it's not happening.

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How To Do Timeshare Presentations for Free Trips (And Not Get Trapped!)

Brett Holzhauer

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Table of Contents

The timeshare swindle, what to expect and do, final thoughts.

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The term “timeshare presentations” can evoke a feeling of dread. When you’re on vacation, the last thing you want to do is sit in a cheesy, high-pressure sales room for up to 2 hours. But I’ve found value in these as a journalist and travel nerd.

I experienced my first presentation in Orlando in 2017. I earned a $200 gift card to Universal Studios, which was more than worth the 90 minutes. I learned how the consumer end of timeshares works, which was quite informative. In the past, it was based on buying a number of nights. Now, the systems primarily work by using points you can redeem globally at a variety of properties. These points are a different currency than the points and miles earned through credit cards or loyalty programs.

Since then, I’ve done 2 Hilton presentations in Las Vegas, Nevada, and I plan on doing more.

The biggest takeaway has been how predatory timeshare companies are and the lack of value in these packages that are nearly impossible to get yourself out of. So I wouldn’t recommend anyone lock themselves into a timeshare contract. But in a highly competitive travel market, timeshare companies continue to give away outstanding perks for you to show up, making the time worth it for many travelers. Having done 3 presentations, I can tell you there’s a simple solution to get in and out painlessly.

Timeshares have long been a punchline in the travel industry. Even children’s cartoons like “ SpongeBob SquarePants ” take jabs at the questionable investment. Unfortunately, many people fall for the high-pressure sales tactics by believing it’s a strategic way to “invest” in travel. Nearly 10 million U.S. households own some sort of timeshare travel product, according to the American Resort Development Association .

Although there is a market for timeshares, they remain a highly despised product. One CNBC survey suggests 85% of people regret buying a timeshare, and the Better Business Bureau received 3,000 complaints regarding Wyndham Destinations and Hilton Grand Vacations in the last few years. Even the Federal Trade Commission has had to step in to guide consumers through the treacherous waters.

But once you take away the negative experience and look at the numbers, it’s a bad investment with little to no return on investment. Nevertheless, if you decide to go to a timeshare presentation, the representatives will do their best to make the numbers as appealing as possible.

The Finn Law Group , a law firm specializing in timeshare litigation, paints the numbers perfectly. With an initial purchase price of roughly $48,000, you could spend over $106,000 over 20 years on maintenance fees, assessments, and more. I would go out on a limb to say most people wouldn’t spend $106,000 on vacation housing potentially in their lifetime, especially if they use points and miles to their advantage.

It’s not worth locking yourself into an investment where you’re guaranteed to lose money, and it will cost you more than simply renting and leaving.

If you sign up for a timeshare presentation for an incentive like a free or heavily discounted room (such as offers from Choice , Hilton , Hyatt , IHG , and Wyndham ), it can feel intimidating. But here’s the short of it: You will watch a short video, sit down with a salesperson, tell them “no” a few times, and they will let you go on your way.

They are accustomed to people coming simply for the offer and going on their way. However, there are a few things you can do to make the process as painless as possible.

Be Firm But Polite

If you’re there solely for the offer and don’t want to purchase a timeshare, let the salesperson know right away. They may push back a bit, but ultimately, they don’t want to spend too much time with someone who isn’t interested.

I’ve let salespeople know quickly that I travel for free using credit card rewards and have no interest. In my experience, they may pry a bit, but they tend to back down if you’re firm.

Don’t Show Interest To Be Polite

Some people can lean into being polite by at least entertaining the offer knowing deep down they aren’t going to purchase. This is adjacent to signing up for a credit card for the welcome bonus , knowing you’re going to cancel the card. Don’t feel guilty for taking an offer that is publicly advertised. Moreover, don’t let that guilt turn into mimicked interest.

This can lead to more time wasted and the salesperson becoming even more pushy.

Don’t Lose Track of Time

Timeshare companies typically advertise their packages with a clear description of how long the presentation is. Normally, it’s either 90 minutes or 2 hours.

As long as you show up on time, be sure to hold the representative to their end of the deal. They are typically pretty good about getting you out on time, but keep a close eye on your phone or watch. If the end of your time is approaching, make it clear to whoever you’re speaking with that your time is almost up, and you’re ready to leave.

When they offer you appointment times to do your presentation, opt for the first morning time. By doing this, you can get it out of the way and enjoy the rest of your day.

What if You’re Actually Interested in the Timeshare?

If you’re interested in a timeshare, I recommend going to a few different brands to see which works best for your needs and budget. Some of the larger brands include Wyndham Destinations, Hilton Grand Vacations , Marriott Vacations Worldwide , Disney Vacation Club , and Diamond Resorts.

If you’re looking for a timeshare feel with a larger room and kitchen rather than a standard hotel room, there are plenty of secondhand timeshare rental websites like RedWeek to find one. I’ve been looking for the right opportunity to use it myself.

Think of it this way: You don’t go on vacation thinking of buying the entire hotel. You rent a room, use it for your short-term needs, and leave. Sometimes, it’s simply smarter to rent. Moreover, a timeshare doesn’t come with any form of property ownership, so it’s a smokescreen of ownership.

Sacrificing a few hours on your vacation to save hundreds of dollars can be worth it. However, don’t be afraid to go if you’re sure you aren’t interested in purchasing a timeshare. Plenty of people have that same mindset and only attend for the free room or another incentive. So, go in with a strong mindset, a firm “no,” and go about the rest of your trip knowing you scored an easy deal.

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Decoding TIMESHARE PRESENTATIONS: A Step-by-Step Guide and How to Protect Yourself

Schedule your free consultation to cancel your timeshare here, what is a timeshare presentation.

Timeshare presentation vacations  are long-lasting and hard-selling, similar to walking into a used car dealership. Know the timeshare presentation  process to avoid becoming a new victim of these so-called "vacation homes"

Timeshares have been a boom over the last twenty years; however they have changed and evolved to give a better service. As a result, the name of this type of memberships were changed for “Vacation Club”.

Importantly, these memberships are not an investment because they are not real estate; you are buying a service to enjoy leisure time with family and not to do business, and that is how it should be seen.

In some countries, these types of memberships are for life (deeded) and can be inherited by the relatives of the owner of the membership.

In the sale of Timeshares or Vacation Clubs participate different persons participate, like LINER (the person who shows the product and tries to convince the customer to buy), CLOSER (this person comes after the "liner" and, as its name implies, comes to closing the deal), and FRONT TO BACK (this makes the work of "liner" and "closer").

  Timeshare presentation deals

Most people would not want to attend a timeshare presentation  on their vacations. Resorts know this and give away incentives to tourists to attract them to their sales floors, some of the gifts they give away are:

Free breakfast Tours around the city Fishing trips Flying certificate 3 Nights, 4 Days stays Discounts during the stay if the client is staying at the resort.

Timeshare presentation steps

Such memberships are sold to consumers following a "step-by step" guide, which we inform you of here:

a) GREETING:  in this first step, the seller meets the family or the people who will participate in the presentation of the product. Here; the seller has a great smile and is introduced to all members of the family without ignoring the young children, which will influence the decision of parents to buy his product.

This step is usually done outside the showroom and does not last more than 3 minutes.

b) INTENT STATEMENT here will be so noted and explained that the presentation will last no more than 90 minutes or less, depending on customer interest, and this is where the seller makes guests feel relaxed and not feel pressured to buy. This step takes 2 to 3 minutes.

c) WARM UP:  At this time, the guests and the host usually have breakfast that is provided to prospective clients; you talk about everything but the product that will be presented; the seller, by training, searches for customers something that "clicks" with them and so gains their trust.

d) DISCOVERY  While eating breakfast, the sales representative asks questions regarding their way of vacationing. Due to his training, this information is, necessary, to "qualify" the customer and get an idea of the kind of package that you may be offered later, so there is always something for the buyer.

e) TOUR (PRODUCT PRESENTATION) Once breakfast is finished, the seller must make the presentation of the product. This could be done by computer or in the traditional way, which would be on paper, sometimes using pens or colored markers due to the fact that our brain perceives these colors, and it is easier to persuade the customer to buy (part of their training). During the functioning of the holiday program, prospects are invited to stroll through the resort's facilities and learn about the different areas of the resort. The salesman  then takes his guests to see the rooms they will enjoy in the future. Once in the rooms, salespeople know how to "put in the movie" the customers, and have their emotions flow, and want to keep the membership. After the  timeshare tour through the rooms, resort salesmen and get to go back to showroom

f) CLOSING  When they return from touring the facility, the seller asks customers questions with the sole intention of passing them to the "closer". Sometimes the "liner" shows the prices of the memberships, and most of the time, customers cannot pay these prices, so it is time to request assistance from the "closer" which is about the intention to clarify the questions that were previously done by customers and, in turn, he makes what is called "Drop" is a "discount on price” shown previously, this is where begins the work of "closer" who have been trained to refute all the objections that the customer can give and get the sale.

How to survive a timeshare sales pitch

If you are not interested in purchasing a timeshare, do not attend a timeshare presentation ! The  gifts are not worth wasting a day of your vacation and putting your hard-earned money at risk of being scammed by the timeshare salespeople.

If you have already purchased a timeshare, contact us at Mexican Timeshare Solutions .

We offer professional and efficient services to cancel your timeshare contract as soon as possible. At Mexican Timeshare Solutions , we will work hard on your behalf with no upfront fees. Contact us today for a free consultation!

To receive more information about timeshare presentations and how to cancel your timeshare, send a WhatsApp to +52 333 239 6589 , fill out the contact form,  or call us at +1 714 277 3662.

 Information to share

If you liked this article, please help us to share this information to more people in order to avoid more timeshare scams victims, how?

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Leave your comment below and share your opinion with us. To know more about timeshare scams go to: Timeshare Promotions: Are they good deals?

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Timeshare Upgrade: A Solution or Just Another Waste of Money?

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Is Attending a Timeshare Presentation Worth It for Families?

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

We've probably all received an invitation to a timeshare presentation where we'd spend a few hours but get a free or inexpensive vacation out of the deal. Most of the time we say "no" because of the horror stories we've heard from people who have attended a similar event with aggressive sales tactics or with people that didn't respect their time. Today's parents have limited time to spend with their children while balancing work and household duties. Is attending a two-hour timeshare presentation to save a few bucks worth sacrificing time with the family -- especially when you're on vacation?

But some of these timeshare properties, many of which can also be booked with points, are pretty appealing. We'll talk about the timeshare pitch and perks in a minute but let's first look at some timeshare properties families may want to visit.

Top Timeshare Properties for Families

Here are a few examples of popular family-friendly timeshares, many of which are bookable on traditional hotel points. Elite members might receive an upgrade to a larger room when making a hotel reservation. And, another bonus of booking a timeshare-stye property usually ensures that you'll get a one-, two- or even three-bedroom unit that will easily fit your family (and with washing machines!).

• Kidani Village, a Disney Vacation Club property at Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas (Orlando, Florida): There are four savannas with more than 200 hoofed animals and birds roaming the resort. Although not part of a hotel loyalty program, points from Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and Barclaycard Arrival Plus World Elite Mastercard (not currently available to new applicants) can pay for your room. I found nightly rates in the $300s before tax. You can even "rent" Disney timeshare points from owners. Personally, I want to book a room here for my family just for the unique experiences with the animals.

• The Westin Ka'anapali Ocean Resort Villas* (Lahaina, Hawaii): Beautiful weather year-round and tropical landscapes make Hawaii a favorite for family travel. Cash prices start in the $500s, but rooms are only 50,000 Marriott points per night.

• Marriott's Grande Vista* (Orlando, Florida): My family stayed here before and loved the pools and game rooms. My son really liked the towers and water cannons at the Plaza del Sol pool. Cash rates start at $183 per night or 35,000 Marriott points.

• Hilton Grand Vacations on the Las Vegas Strip* (Las Vegas, Nevada): While gambling is for adults, the shows and attractions are for visitors of all ages. Las Vegas is a popular family destination for food, fun, and shopping. Room rates are as low as 54,000 Hilton Honors points or $124 plus tax. The Hilton Honors American Express Ascend Card is a great way to earn points with a 125,000 welcome bonus after spending $2,000 in three months, and 6x points at US Restaurants, US supermarkets and US gas stations.
• Hyatt Residence Club Maui, Ka'anapali Beach: This property is right next to the Hyatt Regency Maui. The stretch of beach here is fantastic and the pool complexes are exactly what your family dreams about when thinking "Hawaiian vacation." Use 30,000 World of Hyatt points. Cash prices for the one-, two- and three-bedroom units varies depending on the season but are clocking in just shy of $1,000 per night for a two bedroom and $1,089 for a three bedroom this summer. The World of Hyatt Credit Card can help boost your Hyatt points balance.

• Westin Princeville Ocean Villas: The North Shore of Kauai is light on points hotels, but the Westin Princeville is an option on hotel points or for timeshare owners. Standard rooms are 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night and paid rates start at about $300+ per night. Larger suites are bookable for higher prices. Guests here get to enjoy the nearby beach at the Princeville Resort that is the perfect place to watch Hawaiian sunsets.

*For both Marriott and Hilton, loyalty members can redeem points and receive the fifth night free to increase their savings.

The Timeshare Offer

Spending points, however, isn't the only way you can stay at these villa-style properties. Most of them canvas travelers to find some that will exchange their time to attend a presentation for a free or heavily discounted stay, cash or a combination of the two. In most cases, you'll need to set aside at least two hours for the presentation.

The offer will vary based on which company's presentation you attend. If you are actually interested in buying into a timeshare, do your research beforehand to understand the pros and cons of ownership and get a firm handle on pricing. The timeshare resell market can be a great way to save money if you do decide that ownership is right for you.

No matter what the offer is to attend a presentation may be, always negotiate when speaking with the representative. Remember that you'll be giving up valuable vacation time with your family to sit through the timeshare presentation. He or she may have something extra to offer to close the deal.

Here is a timeshare offer we've seen recently:

Holiday Inn Vacations Club

While checking on my IHG Rewards Club account, the telephone agent discussed a Holiday Inn Vacations Club timeshare offer. For $199, my family and I would receive a four-day, three-night vacation in our choice of one of 14 destinations. The options included Orlando, Las Vegas, Myrtle Beach, the Great Smoky Mountains and other destinations.

Once we attended the presentation, we would receive the $199 back in cash plus a $100 discount certificate for a future Holiday Inn stay. I love a great deal, so I signed up to attend.

Some offers are a bit pricier, such as the $798 offer some receive to spend 5-nights at the Westin Princeville in Kauai, though that offer does include an Avis car rental. Or, at the Disney Aulani in Hawaii attending the sales presentation scores you two luau tickets (normally $139 each).

Our Stay in Gatlinburg

We booked our stay for Gatlinburg, Tennessee, at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains. We came to find out that the city is a great family destination filled with fun tourist attractions, delicious food and amazing nature hikes. (And don't miss Dollywood , which is nearby.)

Cash Versus Points

If you'd like to stay at the timeshare resort, you can book rooms for less than $200 a night or 35,000 IHG Rewards Club points. The IHG Rewards Premier Credit Card is a great way to earn IHG Rewards points to pay for your stay.

The Holiday Inn Express Gatlinburg Downtown is located immediately next door and shares many of the benefits of the timeshare, including the indoor waterpark and pool. On many of the dates I checked, the rooms were very inexpensive when paying cash. You could book a room for 30,000 IHG points, but when the cash price is so low, I would opt for the cash rate or book through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal .

Attending the Timeshare Presentation

When you attend a timeshare presentation, remember that you're sitting with trained sales professionals. Their job is to weave a story to create an emotional connection and get you to believe that timeshare ownership is better than staying in a hotel where you want, when you want and paying how you want (cash or points).

Most timeshare presentations say that you need to attend for 90 to 120 minutes. If you let them, they'll keep you there as long as they can. If they've done their job correctly, they'll try to find the emotional trigger that will get you to buy one of their packages before you leave.

Do Both Spouses Need to Attend the Presentation?

Timeshare purchases are a big commitment, so the salesperson wants to ensure that both spouses are there to sign off on the contract. If one spouse is not there, it is an easy excuse to say that "I need to speak with my spouse about this" to get out of the potentially high-pressure sales pitch.

Before I got married, many timeshare companies I spoke with would not book an appointment with me. Their sales presentation is designed around families and the memories you create while traveling.

Can Children Attend With You?

Timeshare companies know the children can be a distraction or an excuse to leave early during the sales presentation. Because of this, your children may not always be allowed to attend the timeshare presentation with you, though there are exceptions to this. For example, the Disney Vacation Club does a great job providing colors and such for kids to stay busy during the presentation. We have heard of children attending with other brands, too, such as Hyatt.

When we travel with our children, they usually go to the kids club while we speak with the sales representative. In most kids clubs there will be toys and video games for them to play with, drinks and snacks to enjoy, and television to watch.

With many vacations jam-packed with activities, the kids club can be a welcome breather for kids to relax and enjoy some free-style play.

The Presentation

After signing in at the front desk, you'll watch a video with the other guests while your sales rep waits in another room. The video is designed to make you think about how you can travel with your family using the timeshare and what fond memories you will create. Timeshare members will talk about the places they travel with their ownership and how they love that the timeshare can be passed down to their children.

Once the video is finished, you'll go to the sales rep's table where he will ask questions about how you like to travel, where you want to go and how much you spend on vacation.

It always amazes them when we talk about how much we travel and how little we spend. Most of the sales reps that we've talked to do not understand the value of miles and points.

The Sales Pitch

The answers you provide help the sales rep craft the presentation and approach to get you to buy. The simple math works like this: You say that you travel a certain number of days each year and spend so much each night. They multiply this number by 40 years and compare your expected spend against the purchase of a timeshare.

The sales rep will tell you that it is better to buy a timeshare than rent hotel rooms. But what they often neglect to mention is that the timeshare locations aren't always in the places you like to travel, popular resorts book up quickly, maintenance dues go up each year and you'll pay the dues even when you don't travel. Additionally, if you go through a phase where you need to tighten up on discretionary spending (such as travel), you can't do that as easily if you owe set dues each year.

After you've listened patiently and politely declined their offer, a manager will come to the table. The manager will ask if the sale rep treated you well and take some notes.

At that point, he or she will probably offer you a trial package or maybe a discounted offer to return. A trial will let you try out the timeshare membership for one to two years by paying $1,000 to $3,000 to have a select group of properties to stay at. This package may lock in today's prices in case you decide to buy in the future.

For many people, the trial or sampler package can be a good deal compared to cash prices for the same properties -- points are sometimes even thrown into the deal.

At our Holiday Inn Vacations Club presentation, they offered us a future eight-day, seven-night stay for $1,499. We would be in a two-bedroom, two-bath unit similar to the one we toured earlier in the day. Although the rooms were attractive and the offer was tempting, we couldn't see our family wanting to visit any of their locations for eight days.

Should You Say Yes?

Although my family owns a couple of timeshares that I bought in my 20s, I generally recommend against buying one today. With so many vacation options using hotel points, discount travel sites like Groupon and timeshare rental websites, it usually doesn't make sense to lock yourself into a timeshare.

Related: Why Timeshares Aren't Always a Scam

If you do decide that buying a timeshare is right for your family, understand that you can buy them significantly cheaper on the secondary market. Websites like eBay, Redweek and Tug2.net offer thousands of listings of people trying to sell timeshare memberships that they no longer use or cannot afford.

Alternatives to Buying a Timeshare

Of course, we're all familiar with using hotel points when we travel. But did you know that you can rent timeshare units as well?

Many timeshare properties are available using hotel points. Others are available for rent on eBay and Endless Vacation Rentals .

Mommy Points recently rented Disney Vacation Club points from David's Vacation Club Rentals for an awesome Walt Disney World getaway. Going this route allows you to enjoy all of the benefits of a timeshare vacation for a given trip without the upfront cost or responsibility of annual maintenance dues.

Booking a Cheap Spring Break Vacation

For example, if you wanted to travel to Orlando for 2020 Spring Break and stay at a timeshare property, you have many options. A one-bedroom villa at the Sheraton Vistana Resort Villas, Lake Buena Vista/Orlando is available from Endless Vacation Rentals for $161 per night (total of $1,125 for the week).

The same room is available directly from Marriott for $170 per night (total $1,190).

Marriott Bonvoy members can book a week in this room for 300,000 points. The nightly rate is 50,000 points per night, but the fifth night is free as a member benefit.

In my experience, the closer you get to the travel dates, the lower the prices will be on Endless Vacation Rentals because they need to sell the package before the dates pass. Of course, specific dates can sell out.

Is It Worth Your Time?

For our family, giving up two hours of our vacation to earn a big discount on travel expenses is a good trade-off. My wife and I have the strength to decline their best offers to buy, no matter how appealing they may sound in the moment. In our experience, when you attend a timeshare presentation with a well-known name, once you say "no," they will (eventually) respect your decision.

Our family enjoyed a great four-day, three-night vacation in the Great Smoky Mountains for a net cost of $0 after attending the timeshare presentation. Plus, we now have a $100 certificate toward a future Holiday Inn hotel stay. Yes, we spent two hours of our time listening to a timeshare presentation, but it was worth it to have a free family vacation.

Have you attended a timeshare presentation to save money on a vacation? Was it worth it for the perks or will you never do it again?

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Timeshare Sales Tactics: Recognizing and Avoiding the Pressure

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October 16, 2023

Timeshares have long been a popular option for vacationers looking for a home away from home. They promise the allure of a guaranteed vacation spot, often in a sought-after destination, without the responsibilities of full property ownership. For many, the idea of owning a slice of paradise, even if just for a week or two each year, is hard to resist.

The timeshare industry is also notorious for its aggressive sales tactics. Potential buyers often find themselves in high-pressure sales presentations, bombarded with information and urged to make immediate decisions. This article delves into the world of timeshare sales tactics, helping readers recognize, understand, and navigate these often overwhelming sales pitches. Armed with knowledge, you can make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls.

Overview of Sales Tactics

Timeshares have long been associated with aggressive sales tactics. These methods, often designed to create a sense of urgency, can make potential buyers feel trapped or rushed into making a decision. It’s essential to recognize that these tactics are carefully crafted to play on emotions and perceived scarcity.

Many timeshare presentations are structured to be immersive experiences. They often start with a tour of luxurious properties, followed by testimonials of happy owners, and then a hard sell from the salesperson. The goal is to paint a picture of an idyllic vacation lifestyle that seems within reach.

Gifts, free meals, or vacation vouchers are commonly offered as incentives to attend these presentations. While these perks might seem attractive, they come with a catch: sitting through a high-pressure sales pitch. The longer the presentation, the more likely attendees are to feel obligated to make a purchase.

Another tactic is the “today-only” deal, where salespeople offer significant discounts if you sign up on the spot. This strategy is meant to prevent potential buyers from taking the time to think things over or research the offer further.

It’s also not uncommon for sales teams to use a tag-team approach. If one salesperson feels they’re losing the sale, they might bring in a “manager” or another team member to offer an even better deal or use a different tactic to close the sale.

Understanding these tactics is the first step in navigating a timeshare presentation without feeling overwhelmed or pressured into making a hasty decision.

Origins of High-Pressure Sales

The high-pressure sales tactics used in the timeshare industry didn’t just appear overnight. They have roots in traditional sales methods, where creating a sense of urgency and scarcity can lead to quicker sales. Over time, these tactics have been refined and adapted specifically for the timeshare market.

Historically, salespeople have always been under pressure to meet quotas and targets. This pressure often translates to the buyer, especially when commissions are at stake. In the timeshare industry, the potential for high commissions can drive salespeople to use aggressive tactics to secure a sale.

Another factor is the competitive nature of the timeshare market. With so many resorts and properties vying for the attention of potential buyers, sales teams often feel the need to go above and beyond to stand out. This can lead to more aggressive and persuasive sales pitches.

Training also plays a significant role. Many timeshare companies provide their sales teams with rigorous training programs designed to teach them how to handle objections, build rapport quickly, and close deals. These training programs often emphasize the importance of making a sale during the initial presentation, leading to high-pressure tactics.

Lastly, the allure of vacationing and the emotional appeal it carries can make buyers more susceptible to high-pressure tactics . Salespeople are trained to tap into this emotion, painting a picture of endless vacations and luxury experiences, making it harder for potential buyers to say no.

Understanding the origins of these tactics can help potential buyers be more prepared and less susceptible to the pressure when attending a timeshare presentation.

Sales Tactics in Action

When attending a timeshare presentation, it’s essential to recognize the various tactics salespeople might employ. One common method is the “now or never” approach, where the salesperson insists that a particular deal is only available for a limited time, urging the potential buyer to make an immediate decision.

Another tactic is the use of testimonials and success stories. Salespeople might share tales of other buyers who are now enjoying their timeshares, emphasizing the happiness and satisfaction they’ve experienced. While these stories might be true, they’re often used to paint an overly rosy picture of timeshare ownership.

Gifts and incentives are also commonly used to lure potential buyers into presentations. While these might seem like generous offers, they often come with strings attached, such as attending a lengthy sales pitch or providing personal information.

Some salespeople might also employ a tactic known as “price anchoring.” They might start with a very high price, only to lower it significantly, making the reduced price seem like a fantastic deal, even if it’s still not in the buyer’s best interest.

Another tactic is the use of emotional appeals. Salespeople might ask about your family, your vacation dreams, or your past travel experiences, using this information to craft a pitch that tugs at your heartstrings and evokes strong emotions.

Lastly, the “divide and conquer” approach is sometimes used, where salespeople might try to separate couples, addressing each person’s objections individually. This can make it harder for couples to confer and make a joint decision.

Being aware of these tactics in action can arm potential buyers with the knowledge they need to navigate a timeshare presentation without feeling overwhelmed or pressured into making a hasty decision.

Recognizing the Traps

Timeshare presentations can be a whirlwind of information, offers, and high-energy sales pitches. It’s crucial for potential buyers to recognize the traps that might be set to lure them into a purchase.

One of the first signs of a trap is the feeling of being rushed. If a salesperson is pushing for a quick decision or saying that an offer is only available for a short time, it’s a red flag. Good deals don’t expire in a matter of hours.

Another trap is the promise of too-good-to-be-true gifts or incentives. While it’s common for timeshare companies to offer perks for attending a presentation, be wary of extravagant gifts that come with many conditions or high-pressure sales tactics.

Be cautious if a salesperson avoids answering direct questions or changes the subject. Transparency is key, and if they’re not being straightforward, it’s a sign that something might be amiss.

Also, watch out for salespeople who use fear tactics, like suggesting that the cost of vacations will skyrocket in the future, implying that a timeshare is the only affordable option. This is a tactic to create urgency and fear of missing out.

Lastly, be wary of sales pitches that focus too much on the investment aspect of timeshares. While timeshares can provide lovely vacation experiences, they’re not typically a financial investment that appreciates over time.

By recognizing these traps, potential buyers can navigate timeshare presentations with confidence, ensuring they make decisions that are in their best interest.

Defensive Strategies Against Pressure

Defending oneself against high-pressure sales tactics requires a mix of awareness, preparation, and assertiveness. Here are some strategies to keep in mind.

Firstly, always do your homework. Before attending any timeshare presentation, research the company, read reviews, and understand common sales tactics. Knowledge is your best defense.

Set clear boundaries from the start. If you’re only attending a presentation for a promotional gift or discounted stay, be upfront about it. This sets the tone and lets the salesperson know where you stand.

Practice saying “no.” It might sound simple, but firmly and politely declining offers or requests can be powerful. Remember, you’re under no obligation to make a purchase or decision on the spot.

Bring a friend or family member. Having someone with you can provide moral support and an additional perspective. They might catch something you missed or offer a differing opinion.

Ask questions and take notes. This shows the salesperson that you’re engaged and serious about understanding the offer. It also helps you remember key points and promises made during the presentation.

Lastly, trust your gut. If something feels off or too good to be true, it probably is. It’s okay to walk away and take time to think things over.

By employing these defensive strategies, you can navigate timeshare presentations with confidence and avoid falling victim to high-pressure sales tactics.

Timeshare Myths Debunked

Timeshares, like many industries, are surrounded by myths and misconceptions. Let’s debunk some of the most common ones.

Myth 1: Timeshares are an investment. Many people are led to believe that buying a timeshare is a financial investment that will appreciate over time. In reality, timeshares often depreciate and can be challenging to sell.

Myth 2: You can easily exchange your timeshare for any location. While exchange programs exist, there’s no guarantee you’ll get your desired location or date. It often requires planning well in advance.

Myth 3: Timeshares offer a cost-effective vacation solution. While the idea of a prepaid vacation might sound appealing, many owners find that maintenance fees and other hidden costs make timeshares more expensive in the long run.

Myth 4: You can easily rent out your timeshare. Renting out a timeshare can be complex, with many resorts having rules against or restrictions on such practices.

Myth 5: Cancellation is straightforward. Many timeshare contracts have tight cancellation windows, making it hard for owners to exit without facing penalties.

Myth 6: All timeshares are the same. Timeshares vary widely in terms of contract structure, ownership type, and amenities. It’s essential to understand what you’re buying.

By understanding and debunking these myths, potential buyers can make more informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls associated with timeshare ownership.

Understanding Consumer Rights

When it comes to timeshares, knowing your rights as a consumer is crucial. These rights are in place to protect you from unfair practices and ensure transparency.

1. Right to a Rescission Period: After signing a timeshare contract, there’s typically a “cooling-off” period where you can change your mind and cancel the contract without any penalties. This period varies by state but is usually between 3 to 10 days.

2. Right to Clear Information: Timeshare companies must provide clear and accurate information about the property, costs involved, and terms of the contract. Any misleading information can be grounds for contract termination.

3. Right to be Free from High-Pressure Sales Tactics: You should never feel pressured into making a decision on the spot. High-pressure sales tactics are not only unethical but can also be illegal.

4. Right to Legal Representation: If you feel that you’ve been misled or treated unfairly, you have the right to seek legal representation. An attorney can guide you through the process of exiting a timeshare contract.

5. Right to Know about Maintenance Fees: Timeshare companies must be upfront about any maintenance fees or other recurring costs. These fees can increase over time, so it’s essential to be aware of them from the outset.

6. Right to Exchange or Trade: If your timeshare is part of an exchange network, you have the right to trade your week or location for another. However, it’s essential to understand the terms and any fees involved.

Being informed about your rights can empower you to make better decisions and protect yourself from potential pitfalls in the timeshare industry.

Seeking External Help

There are times when, despite your best efforts, you might find yourself in a tricky timeshare situation. It’s essential to know that you’re not alone and that help is available.

1. Timeshare Exit Companies: These are firms that specialize in helping timeshare owners get out of their contracts. However, it’s crucial to research and choose a reputable company, as there are many scams in this space.

2. Legal Counsel: Hiring a lawyer, especially one specializing in timeshares, can be beneficial. They can provide guidance, represent you in disputes, and help navigate the complex legal landscape of timeshares.

3. Consumer Protection Agencies: In many cases, state or federal consumer protection agencies can offer assistance or direct you to the right resources. They can also take action if a timeshare company is found to be violating laws.

4. Timeshare User Groups: Joining a user group or online forum can provide a wealth of information. Members often share their experiences, tips, and resources, which can be invaluable.

5. Reselling or Renting: If you’re looking to exit your timeshare, consider selling or renting it out. While the resale market can be challenging, it’s an option worth exploring.

6. Mediation: Some disputes can be resolved through mediation, where a neutral third party helps both sides come to an agreement. It’s less formal than a court proceeding and can be a quicker way to resolve issues.

7. Document Everything: If you believe you’ve been misled or treated unfairly, document every interaction, keep all paperwork, and gather evidence. This documentation can be crucial if you decide to seek legal action or file a complaint.

Remember, the key is to act quickly and seek help as soon as you realize there’s a problem. The more informed and proactive you are, the better your chances of finding a solution.

Real-life Experiences with Sales Tactics

Real-life stories from timeshare owners can provide invaluable insights into the world of timeshare sales tactics. These experiences shed light on the various strategies employed by salespeople and the impact they can have on potential buyers.

1. Jane’s Story: Jane attended a timeshare presentation with the promise of a free vacation. However, she ended up spending hours listening to aggressive sales pitches. Despite her initial refusal, the salespeople used various tactics to wear her down, and she eventually signed a contract. Later, she regretted her decision and sought legal help to exit the timeshare.

2. Mike’s Experience: Mike was told that buying a timeshare would be a great investment and that he could easily rent it out for profit. However, he soon realized that the rental market was saturated, and he was stuck with mounting maintenance fees.

3. Sarah’s Tale: Sarah was pressured into upgrading her timeshare during an owners’ meeting . The salesperson painted a rosy picture of the benefits but failed to mention the increased costs. Feeling trapped, Sarah had to seek external help to understand her rights.

4. David’s Journey: David was promised exclusive amenities if he bought a timeshare. However, after purchasing, he found out that these amenities were available to all guests, not just timeshare owners. He felt deceived and misled.

5. Lisa’s Encounter: Lisa was told that her timeshare would appreciate in value over time. However, when she tried to sell it a few years later, she found out it was worth much less than what she had paid.

These stories highlight the importance of being cautious and doing thorough research before making any timeshare-related decisions. It’s essential to be aware of the tactics used and to stand firm in your decisions.

It’s also worth noting that for every negative experience, there are timeshare owners who are happy with their purchase. The key is to make informed decisions and know your rights.

Moving Forward: Making Informed Decisions

Timeshares can offer wonderful vacation experiences, but it’s crucial to make informed decisions. Being aware of high-pressure sales tactics and understanding your rights can help you navigate the complex world of timeshares with confidence.

1. **Research Before Attending**: Before attending any timeshare presentation, do your homework. Read reviews, understand the company’s reputation, and know what you’re getting into.

2. **Know Your Budget**: Determine what you can afford. Remember, the cost of a timeshare isn’t just the initial purchase price. There are ongoing maintenance fees, potential special assessments, and other costs to consider.

3. **Ask Questions**: Don’t hesitate to ask questions during the presentation. If something isn’t clear, seek clarification. A legitimate salesperson will have no problem answering your queries.

4. **Avoid Impulse Decisions**: Timeshare decisions should never be made on the spot. Take your time, review the contract, and consider seeking legal advice before signing anything.

5. **Know Your Cancellation Rights**: Most places have a rescission period, a window during which you can cancel the contract without penalties. Familiarize yourself with these rights.

6. **Seek External Advice**: If you’re unsure about a timeshare purchase or feel you’ve been a victim of misleading sales tactics, seek external advice. Professionals, like those at ACA Group, can provide guidance and support.

7. **Stay Updated**: The timeshare industry is ever-evolving. Stay updated with the latest news, laws, and trends to make informed decisions.

8. **Trust Your Instincts**: If something feels off or too good to be true, trust your gut. It’s better to walk away than to make a decision you might regret later.

While timeshares can offer great vacation opportunities, it’s essential to approach them with caution and knowledge. By staying informed and vigilant, you can enjoy the benefits of timeshares without falling prey to high-pressure sales tactics.

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Timeshare contracts are notorious for their intricate terms and conditions, often designed to keep owners tied in for the long haul. While the idea of owning a vacation property might have seemed perfect at first, the ongoing costs, limited flexibility, and changing personal circumstances can turn the dream into a burden. This article delves into the complexities of timeshare cancellation, shedding light on why the process is more challenging than most anticipate and offering guidance on navigating the tricky path to freedom.

September 12, 2023

Timeshares – shift from traditional weeks to point system.

Timeshares are undergoing a significant transformation, shifting from traditional week-based reservations to point-based systems. While this change may seem advantageous at first glance, it often conceals underlying complexities that can disadvantage owners. Many are unaware of the potential pitfalls and hidden costs associated with point systems, leading to unexpected burdens. This article delves into the intricacies of this shift, highlighting how timeshare companies may be capitalizing on owner’s lack of knowledge.

November 6, 2023

Timeshare cancellation: state laws you should know.

Unravel the complexities of timeshare cancellation with our in-depth guide. Discover how state laws shape your cancellation rights, the nuances of legal protections, and strategies to navigate the legal terrain confidently. This post is your ally in understanding the critical aspects of timeshare laws, ensuring you’re equipped with the knowledge to make empowered decisions about your timeshare journey. Dive in to safeguard your interests and take control of your timeshare experience.

September 18, 2023

Timeshare exit and your credit report: what you should know.

In the intricate world of timeshare ownership, making the decision to exit your contract is a significant step that can have far-reaching consequences. One aspect that often goes overlooked is the impact on your credit report. Welcome to our blog post, where we delve into the crucial relationship between timeshare exits and your credit score. We’ll explore the various scenarios that can affect your credit, shedding light on how these decisions can impact your financial health.

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How to survive a Timeshare Sales Presentation!

We guarantee that joining TUG will be the best $15 you ever spend on Timesharing

If you are vacationing in a Timeshare, you will eventually be scheduled to attend a Timeshare Sales Presentation! These meetings are scheduled (or at least the scheduling is attempted) for nearly all guests who are staying at the Timeshare itself, be it an existing owner, exchanger or simply someone renting a unit. This article is intended to help you be prepared for what to expect when attending one of these meetings so you are better prepared to sit through it! Note that these sales presentations can be disguised as many different things (Owner Update for example) in an attempt to hide the fact that you are going to have to sit through an attempt to sell you a Timeshare!

Ok so it appears I have to go - what now?

It is at this point where your experience can vary from extremely short and pleasant, to extremely long and miserable! We have had reports from all extremes of the spectrum, and everywhere in between! It truly depends on the resort and the salesman on how your presentation will go! I cannot possibly describe each and every possible scenario, however it never ceases to amaze me how many folks go into a presentation convinced they wont buy a thing, and exit the presentation new owners of a Timeshare! The next few sections will discuss the main contents of nearly all Timeshare presentations.

When it comes down to it, you are there to be sold something. While this is usually a new timeshare, pitches to existing owners can include "upgrades" to increase point totals you already own. "Trade ins" that give you some value for your existing timeshare if you agree to purchase a newer (read more expensive) timeshare package. As well as "preview/trial" packages for potential new owners who may be on the fence about buying! No matter what the pitch to you is, there is one very important thing you MUST understand, and that will get you through any presentation. You do not need to buy right then and there! Nor SHOULD you buy anything on the spot without doing research. It is the job of the salesperson to get you to sign that new contract (for whatever package you are being pitched at the time) right then and there during the sales presentation. Doing this eliminates many options and protections for you as a consumer!

Common tactics you might encounter!

• "X number of extra vacation weeks" that you can have if you buy this package.
• "Buying this timeshare will let you trade/exchange for any other timeshare at any time"
• "If you don't use your Timeshare, we will rent it out for you"
• "Timeshare is an investment that will increase in value!"
• This deal is "just for you" as I cleared it with my manager but is only available if you buy today!

But the salesman said this was a one time offer?

This is one of the most common "tactics" used by Timeshare salespersons to get you to commit during the presentation. Fact is, that offer will be valid whenever you decide you want to take it. You could call up the next month after returning home and doing your research and the salesman would literally jump through the phone to sign you up for that same deal offered during your presentation. Absolutely No offer made during a presentation becomes "unavailable" to you the moment the presentation ends. There is a reason that the sales presentations are done at the beginning of your vacation! Your Right of Rescission period begins the day you sign your contract and varies in length from 3 to 10 days depending on the state. It is quite possible that by the time you get home from your vacation and get a chance to sit down and research exactly what you just bought, you might have already passed the period in which you had to legally cancel. This is not done by accident folks!

Why would I cancel, surely its cheaper to buy at the presentation?

One of the hardest truths TUGGERS discover (usually shortly after buying during a presentation) is the Timeshare Resale market. So many folks are desperate to rid themselves of their timeshares, resale prices for most resorts have never ever been lower. Yes you can find that exact same interval for pennies on the dollar vs what you can buy it for right there at the presentation. At the very least, you owe it to yourself to RESEARCH before making that decision! If you find later that the price given to you during the presentation was the best you can do (it wont be), then by all means call the salesman back up and express your interest in buying and they will sign you right up! TUG has saved owners MILLIONS of dollars in the past few years for those that have bought during a sales presentation, then later found TUG in time to cancel that purchase and buy on the resale market for pennies on the dollar. We are not making this stuff up! This thread serves as a reference for owners who have confirmed they were able to cancel in time and buy resale! Check out the current list of people TUG has saved here: I found TUG in time to rescind my new Timeshare purchase!

If you for some reason still bought a Timeshare during the presentation, we advise you to rescind immediately and do some research as you only have a very short time to legally cancel to get a full refund! This is such an important detail, we actually created an entire youtube video to cover it! Check it out here:

The salesman said I lose benefits when buying resale?

This is most certainly true of more and more resorts these days! It is a vain attempt at destroying the resale market so that resorts can continue to sell NEW timeshares at a grossly inflated price! If this tactic is used on you during your sales presentation, you should make the salesman write out right in front of you exactly which items and services do not apply if you were to buy this exact same timeshare on the resale market! This will help you two fold! First It gives you the exact items you can go and research to see if there is indeed a way to get those by purchasing resale. In many cases you will find that some of these "perks" do indeed apply to any and all owners irregardless of how the timeshare was purchased. Second It lets you decide if those perks are worth paying tens of thousands of dollars MORE than buying the same property on the resale market! One example of this is a large resort chain offering free limo rides during your vacation to and from the airport etc for those who purchase a new timeshare package at a certain price level. This sounds great, and is indeed a fantastic perk for new owners! However one must keep in perspective that you could probably get some pretty nice limo service yourself each trip with an extra $10,000 in your pocket that you saved by buying resale!

The Final Word!

• If you are uncomfortable or have ANY questions or concerns about the deal, you should not sign.
• if you are unable to confirm in writing IN THE CONTRACT everything the salesman has said, you should not sign.
• if you are unable to do research on the resale market, you should not sign.

Feel free to stop by our Timeshare Online Community Forums if you want to ask specific questions, with tens of thousands of Timeshare owners and experts, no question goes unanswered!

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