⚠️ 6 Timeshare Gotchas to Watch For
- Perpetual/Deeded Obligation: HIGH Many timeshares are "in perpetuity"—you and your heirs are obligated forever. These contracts pass to your estate and can be extremely difficult to exit
- Escalating Maintenance Fees: HIGH Annual maintenance fees of $1,000-2,000+ increase every year with no cap. Fees can double over 10-15 years regardless of whether you use the property
- Special Assessment Fees: HIGH Resorts can levy one-time assessments of $1,000-10,000+ for renovations, hurricane damage, or any other reason. You must pay or face collections
- No Exit Strategy: HIGH There's essentially no resale market—timeshares sell for $1 or less. "Exit companies" charge thousands and many are scams
- Rescission Period Limits: MEDIUM You have only 3-15 days (varies by state) to cancel after signing. After that window, you're locked in with no recourse
- Points Devaluation: MEDIUM Points-based systems can devalue your ownership by increasing points needed for bookings. Your "week" may only get you 3-4 days over time
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