Timeshare Fraud - How To Recognize And
Avoid It
by Dana Sanders
Does the ideal of purchasing a timeshare vacation package sound exciting?
It should be, at the least, an exciting endeavor. Imagine your first
inexpensive trip to the beach, a romantic week away or a much-deserved
escape from the hustle and stress of the real world!
Ever think 'timeshare' only to have fraud be the next thing on your mind?
You are not alone. Yet the simple truth of the matter is timeshares are
generally a brilliant, safe and accommodating way to experience many
popular vacation hotspots or secluded geographical treasures in the United
States or abroad.
While purchasing timeshare options are usually safe, there are some common
pitfalls – including less-than-honest dealings by some companies offering
timeshares. But there are foolproof ways to avoid being caught unaware
while searching for and purchasing the timeshare plan best suited for you
and your family.
The first rule is an easy one - go with the larger, well-established
companies. Common sense tells us that if they have been around for years
it is less likely they would ruin their impeccable reputation with any
type of fraudulent behavior. This especially holds true during the initial
purchase or resale of a timeshare package.
Another important tool used to avoid timeshare fraud is to be certain you
fully understand the contents of your contract. For example, a less than
reputable company may make it contractually difficult to sell your
timeshare in the event you wanted to do so. Contract literature is at best
an art form. And since art comes in various disguises and at times carries
a subtle dagger, you should be sure of the contents of your timeshare
contract. Again, this is simple common sense as you would carefully
consider the contents of any contract before signing on the "dotted line."
Be particularly wary of European and other overseas destinations if you
aren't familiar with the company offering the timeshare. Be wary also of
any timeshare company asking for upfront fees before they will engage in
the sell of property. Blacklists are available to inform of companies that
have engaged in timeshare fraud. Both ordinary citizens who have banned
together and wish to inform others of their fraudulent timeshare
experiences and timeshare companies have created these blacklists.
As you consider the potential for timeshare fraud, remember that there
will always be reputable timeshare companies out there that will be
straight up with the facts. This, of, course includes many overseas
companies. In that regard, do your own research. Timesharing is a popular
and unique way to vacation. Perhaps if you were to ask around there are
co-workers or relatives who have purchased timeshare packages and were
pleased with all aspects of a certain timesharing company.
Becoming the victim of timeshare fraud is a frustrating and often
expensive mistake. Research and planning – including having an attorney
with your best interests at heart – will help you avoid the fraudulent
companies. To get started in your research about timeshare fraud, just log
on to the Internet and visit locations such as
http://www.tug2.net or
http://www.atimesharesz.com/dir/timesharefraud to do a thorough search.
No matter if you are on the red list or the green, regardless if you are
expecting first class accommodations or comfortable down home charm, there
will be countless timeshare packages that hold true to another cliché,
what you see (in the brochures and the videos) is exactly what you will
get. But remember, when it comes to timeshares or any other purchase you
are considering, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!
