How do I Find a Cheap Timeshare?

Timeshares are great ways to secure a vacation spot for use now and then, without having to maintain a vacation home all by yourself. The real trick is to find a timeshare that is within your budget and can be acquired with relatively little effort. Fortunately, finding a cheap timeshare is a lot less trouble than you may think.

One of the first steps in finding a cheap timeshare is knowing where not to look. For the most part, you will save time and frustration by staying away from developers. The one exception is if the deal is truly a closeout, such as when the developer is wanting to move on to a new project. When that is the case, there is a good chance you can get the timeshare rental for less than a third of the usual asking price.

There is always the option of taking those guided tours offered at many timeshare resorts. However, be on your guard for the high pressure sales tactics. The cost for the timeshare is likely to go down as the salesperson uncovers more ways to discount the price, hopefully to a figure that you will believe no one will ever match. However, don't be taken in by these “one day only” sales. The fact is that there is always another deal out there, and chances are you really can do better elsewhere.

Word of mouth is often a good way of finding out about cheap timeshare rentals and sales. Ask around your circle of friends, at work, and as you socialize at community events. Someone that you come in contact may be willing to extend a cheap timeshare rental that is just right for you. With a little luck, that somebody may be looking to sell the timeshare outright, and will offer it to you at a price and with terms you can afford.

Keep in mind that the Internet is a great place to look for all sorts of deals, including cheap timeshares. Spend some time investigating bidding sites that feature timeshare rentals and sales. There is a good chance you can find a great deal on a cheap timeshare for a price that you never would have thought possible. This is especially true if you can be flexible on the time you can slip away to enjoy the timeshare. As with any online auction situation, do your homework and investigate the past history of the seller to make sure there is no evidence of improprieties or misrepresentation.