World Travel Guide: Timeshares - |
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Buying a timeshare carries as much risk as any substantial purchase you make. In fact, should you decide that it is a good option for you, it's important that you try to find as much information as you can regarding the company, broker or seller. Already, the timeshare industry has had its share of frauds and scams, particularly regarding sale and resale. So how to protect yourself against unlicensed timeshare? Here are things you need to know:
Unlicensed timeshare will offer little or no protection for you.
When buying timeshare, always deal with a licensed broker. Not every timeshare purchase is seamless and some problems could arise out of the transaction. A licensed broker will be more careful about making fraudulent transactions. With unlicensed timeshare, you're at a higher risk of not getting sufficient protection later on. If a problem comes up, you might not have anyone to turn to for help.
There's also a danger that the unlicensed timeshare you're eyeing may be nothing more than a nice newspaper ad. If the broker or company is unlicensed, they cannot help you with the sales or purchase transaction and cannot draw up a contract. In case you're buying a deeded timeshare, they will not be able to help you with any documents required in your local title agency.
Furthermore, there's little to expect in terms of ethical business practices and even professional competence from unlicensed timeshare. If you truly want to go this route, know that you'll do so at your own risk.
Always check the background of the timeshare company.
That should give you an idea of how long they have been in business, what their reputation is, their relative popularity and perceived reliability in the industry and their success in selling. A good place to start is the Better Business Bureau. On the website, you could search out the company's name and find out if they've had their share of complaints from buyers and/or sellers. It's also a good way to determine if you'll be dealing with unlicensed timeshare as well.
Most states require a licensed agent or broker.
You really have no excuse regarding unlicensed timeshare because there's a good chance you're residing in an area where the only way anyone could sell real estate is if they have the appropriate license.
Should you choose to work with a broker or agent or a timeshare company, always inquire regarding their license. You don't want the trouble associated with unlicensed timeshare so before you ever make the first step towards a purchase, make sure you have sufficient coverage.
Unlicensed timeshare firms may not always provide you with licensed agents.
You'll need a licensed agent who has the experience and competence to facilitate the purchase or sale of a timeshare property. Otherwise, you might have to go through the selling or buying process by yourself. Unless you have the experience, this process can be a bit of a challenge, particularly because you'll have to go through plenty of marketing and advertising efforts just to promote your timeshare or find the right option for you.
Dealing with a foreign timeshare company? Check if they are licensed to sell in your country.
It's common for foreign-based timeshare companies to sell their products in other shores. This is mainly to tap a market that may have strong interest in their real property, particularly in areas that are quite popular with tourists and vacationers.
If you'll be dealing with one, always check with a local, state or federal agency to determine if the company is registered. If they are unlicensed and are not allowed to sell in your country, you could have a lot of trouble getting your money back or finding sufficient protection for your rights as a timeshare owner.
| ©2008 Nick Stoles. All rights reserved. |
Looking for a good timeshare to purchase? Are you tired of the time consuming presentations of timeshare companies? I have got a solution for you that is really quite simple. Find the timeshare resort you like the best and then search for pre-owned timeshares that other owners are selling at massive discounted rates. Years ago this would be practically impossible, but this is now a cost effective reality for those of you that are looking into buying a timeshare. Timeshare resales are everywhere these days. You will find timeshare resales in classified ads, auction sites, and even firms that deal
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