Bayside Tiger Ag said:
Seems like Timeshares are pointless in the days of VRBO, AirB&B, homeway, etc. What's the point really?
My timeshare is at a fantastic ski in/ski out resort in Breckenridge. I live in denver, so to someone in my situation, it's a great deal, because as an owner I get to use the resort amenities (underground heated parking, lockers, pool, daycare, etc) 24/7, 365 days a year even without committing to staying a night. So, play hookey on a Wed, drive to Breck, park in the garage, ski for 4-5 hours, then hop in the hot tub or pool, have a drink and lunch, then leave and get home by 5. My only costs are those associated with skiing; none for the use of the resort, aside from food or drinks.
We also get very deep discounts on unsold rooms, which is great in lower demand times, like summer and fall. I can get a suite in the summer for wife and I for about $59 a night, or a 1 bedroom for us and kids for about $79. That is easily cheaper than any place in town, and this is a 5 star resort on the mountain. We've used this benefit about 4 times now in two years. Twice in winter, once each in summer and fall. Even winter is dirt cheap, $99 for a 1 bedroom.. for a ski in ski out resort. We weren't even skiing! Just a weekend getaway in mid january. The walk in rate for a January weekend is $300+ a night.
All this is in addition to my guaranteed week there, or I can trade my week in to interval international and use the week any where in the world at once of there resorts. We also get to do updates once a year, basically a 2 hour sales pitch for their new properties. In return we get $100 credit at the resort. We've done it every year now. They'll give you a lift ticket in lieu of $100 in winter season. Even better deal.
So, no, not all timeshares are created equal. This is far from a rip off or pointless. I feel like what I have has great value. However, if I did not live within driving distance of my home resort, I do tend to agree that a timeshare may not be worth it.
