Top 10 Worst Timeshare Companies to Avoid
It can be challenging to navigate the timeshare industry, particularly with so many potential hazards from dubious companies. We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 worst timeshare companies, which are infamous for their high-pressure sales techniques, hidden fees and subpar customer service, to help you make well-informed judgments. You can avoid needless financial stress and regret by staying away from these businesses. Knowing which timeshare firms to steer clear of will help you stay informed and safeguard your investment.
Why Timeshares Can Become a Financial Burden?
Owning a portion of a vacation home and taking advantage of annual getaways makes timeshares seem like a fantastic deal. However, many owners are sorry they bought it. Rising timeshare maintenance fees, fewer booking alternatives, and no resale value are the main timeshare owners complaints. Eighty-five percent of timeshare owners regret their choice, according to a 2018 University of Central Florida research. Here’s why timeshares turn sour:
- High Costs: Maintenance fees can climb to $1,120 or more annually, growing 2-12% yearly.
- No Resale Value: Most timeshares sell for $1 or less on sites like eBay due to low demand.
- Lifelong Contracts: Many agreements lock owners into payments forever, even passing to heirs.
- Deceptive Sales: High-pressure tactics mislead buyers about benefits, availability, or costs.
Understanding these issues helps you spot red flags when researching companies or seeking timeshare exit strategies.
Top 10 Worst Timeshare Companies to Avoid
According to timeshare owner complaints, industry studies, and lawsuits, these 10 worst timeshare companies are notorious for their exorbitant costs, bad practices, and exit issues. Each has been criticized for inadequate customer service, rigid contracts, and deceptive sales.
1. Wyndham Vacation Resorts (Club Wyndham)
Due to pushy sales tactics and false promises, Wyndham, which is currently a part of Travel + Leisure Co., is at the top of the list. Brokers like Craig Roberts made misleading claims that Wyndham sponsored buyback schemes, according to a 2012 complaint. Vacation planning is difficult due to Owners report escalating maintenance fees and overbooked resorts. Wyndham units don’t sell very often, thus timeshare resale issues are typical.
- Complaints: Misleading buyback promises, high-pressure sales, poor availability.
- Exit Difficulty: No clear exit program; owners often need legal help for timeshare owners.
2. Diamond Resorts International
A lawsuit against Diamond Resorts for misleading sales was filed in Arizona in 2016. Owners gripe about inflexible contracts, growing costs, and points that don’t cover their preferred stays. Despite a 2017 settlement forcing sales reforms, timeshare owner complaints persist.
- Issues: Deceptive sales, no buyback program, high maintenance fees.
- Exit Tip: Check for deed-back options, but expect resistance.
3. Marriott Vacations Worldwide
Marriott’s timeshare division has come under fire for using high-pressure sales tactics and entangling owners in expensive agreements. Customer satisfaction ratings are low, according to the Better Business Bureau. Owners feel misinformed about flexibility and timeshare resale problems.
- Complaints: Hasty sales decisions, no exit options, high fees.
- Solution: Explore Marriott’s limited deed-back program or seek timeshare contract review.
4. Holiday Inn Club Vacations
Despite claims to the contrary, a 2020 lawsuit found that Holiday Inn sold hard-to-book units with increasing costs. Timeshare owners want legal assistance to leave because they feel ensnared by lifelong commitments.
- Problems: Unbookable units, fee increases, no buyback.
- Exit Strategy: Contact the developer for rescission or hire an attorney.
5. Bluegreen Corporation
Bluegreen’s aggressive tactics and varied sales processes have drawn criticism. Owners complain about bad customer service and timeshare maintenance fees that exceed advantages. It is almost impossible to resell.
- Issues: Overbooking, high fees, unresponsive support.
- Tip: Try negotiating a deed-back directly with Bluegreen.
6. Westgate Resorts
Owners are irritated by Westgate’s aggressive sales and overbooking problems. Many timeshare owners complain about escalating fees and resorts that aren’t available. Owners are forced to use timeshare exit strategies due to the lack of departure options.
- Complaints: Sales pressure, booking issues, high fees.
- Solution: Seek legal help for timeshare owners for complex cases.
7. Shell Vacation Club
Shell’s contracts burden owners with generational obligations, passing fees to heirs. Slow customer service and unclear termination policies add to frustrations.
- Problems: Perpetual contracts, high fees, poor support.
- Exit Tip: Hire an attorney for timeshare contract review to find loopholes.
8. Hilton Grand Vacations
Hilton’s timeshares face complaints about limited availability and high maintenance fees. Owners on Reddit report difficulty exiting without professional help. Timeshare resale problems are rampant.
- Issues: Booking challenges, costly fees, exit barriers.
- Strategy: Check Hilton’s exit policies or consult a lawyer.
9. WorldMark by Wyndham
WorldMark owners lament timeshare maintenance fees (up to $90 monthly) and low usage value. Many feel trapped by contracts with no resale market.
- Complaints: High fees, low value, no exit options.
- Solution: Explore deed-back programs or legal help for timeshare owners.
10. Anfi Group
Anfi, a Spanish-based company, faces criticism for illegal contracts under Spain’s Law 42/98, which bans perpetual timeshares. Owners report high fees and deceptive sales.
- Problems: Illegal contracts, high costs, no resale value.
- Exit Tip: Seek independent advice for timeshare cancellation rights in Spain.
Timeshare Owner Complaints: Real Stories
Timeshare owners tell terrifying tales. The 74-year-old retiree Ed Roach lost $25,000 to a fraudulent exit firm connected to Wyndham. Juaquin Becerril was stranded with a timeshare in Mexico after paying $5,000 to an escape business that disappeared. Common timeshare owner complaints include:
- Deceptive Sales: Promises of easy booking or profits never materialize.
- Rising Fees: Maintenance costs soar, often exceeding vacation value.
- Exit Scams: Fraudulent companies charge upfront fees and disappear.
These stories highlight the need for timeshare contract review before signing and caution when seeking timeshare exit strategies.
Timeshare Maintenance Fees: The Hidden Cost
One of the biggest annoyances is timeshare maintenance fees. Although fees support taxes, electricity, and resort maintenance, they can increase at unpredictable rates. With yearly increments of 2–12%, the average cost is $1,120. Even if they don’t utilize the property, some owners spend $2,000 or more.
- Why Fees Hurt: They’re due regardless of usage, and non-payment risks foreclosure or credit damage.
- Avoiding Traps: Ask for lifetime fee estimates before buying.
- Exit Impact: Exiting eliminates fees, saving thousands over time.
Always request a fee schedule during timeshare contract review to avoid surprises.
Timeshare Resale Problems: Why You Can’t Sell
It is almost impossible to sell a timeshare. Low demand and oversupply are the main causes of timeshare resale problems. Timeshares are listed on eBay for $1, but buyers steer clear of them because of contracts and upkeep costs. Expert brokers overlook the majority of owners in favor of luxury apartments.
- Resale Scams: Fraudsters charge upfront fees to “sell” your timeshare, then vanish.
- Realistic Options: Gift the timeshare, try owner directories, or list on RedWeek.
- Avoiding Loss: Sell only through commission-based brokers to minimize risk.
If resale fails, explore timeshare exit strategies to escape obligations.
Timeshare Cancellation Rights: Know Your Options
Timeshare cancellation rights vary by location. In the U.S., a rescission period (3-15 days) lets buyers cancel without penalty. After this, cancellation is tough but possible:
- Rescission Period: Send a certified letter to cancel within days of signing.
- Deed-Back Programs: Some resorts like Marriott or Diamond take back paid-off units.
- Legal Action: If misled, sue for fraud or misrepresentation.
Check your contract and state laws for timeshare cancellation rights. A timeshare contract review by an attorney can clarify your rights.
Timeshare Exit Strategies: Safe Ways to Get Out
Exiting a timeshare requires careful planning. Timeshare exit strategies include negotiating with developers, selling, or hiring professionals. Here’s how to escape safely:
- Contact the Resort: Ask about deed-back or surrender programs.
- Sell or Gift: List on eBay, Craigslist, or RedWeek, or gift to family.
- Hire an Attorney: For complex cases, lawyers negotiate or litigate exits.
- Use Reputable Exit Companies: Choose BBB-accredited firms like The Stonegate Firm, which uses escrow.
Avoid companies charging upfront fees, as scams are common. Always verify credentials and read reviews.
Legal Help for Timeshare Owners: When to Hire an Attorney
Legal help for timeshare owners is crucial for tricky exits or fraud cases. Attorneys review contracts, negotiate with resorts, or file lawsuits. The Timeshare Law Firm has helped over 9,000 owners divest legally.
- When to Hire: If misled, stuck in a perpetual contract, or facing foreclosure.
- Costs: Fees range from $1,000 to $10,000, but escrow options protect payments.
- Finding Help: Contact firms like The Abrams Firm or check ARDA’s Responsible Exit guide.
A timeshare contract review by a lawyer can uncover exit options or grounds for cancellation.
Timeshare Contract Review: Don’t Sign Blindly
Before buying, insist on a timeshare contract review. Contracts are complex, often hiding perpetual clauses or fee escalations.
- Key Clauses to Check:
- Maintenance fee increases
- Exit or cancellation terms
- Booking restrictions
- Inheritance obligations
- How to Review: Hire a real estate or consumer protection attorney.
- Red Flags: High-pressure sales, vague promises, or no cooling-off period.
A thorough review prevents regret and clarifies timeshare cancellation rights.
Alternatives to Timeshares: Smarter Vacation Options
Timeshares aren’t the only way to enjoy vacations. Alternatives to timeshares offer flexibility without lifelong commitments. Consider these:
- Vacation Rentals: Platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo let you book anywhere without fees.
- Hotel Loyalty Programs: Earn points for free stays with brands like Hilton or Marriott.
- Fractional Ownership: Unlike timeshares, some fractional properties hold value.
- Travel Clubs: Offer discounts without contracts, but research to avoid scams.
These options avoid timeshare maintenance fees and resale problems, giving you freedom.
Avoiding Timeshare Scams: Tips for Protection
Timeshare scams target desperate owners. Fraudulent exit companies charge upfront fees and deliver nothing. Here’s how to stay safe:
- Research Companies: Check BBB ratings and Trustpilot reviews.
- Avoid Upfront Fees: Legitimate firms use escrow or charge after success.
- Report Scams: File complaints with the FTC or FBI’s IC3.
- Get Legal Advice: Consult an attorney before signing exit contracts.
Protect yourself by prioritizing timeshare contract review and verified timeshare exit strategies.
Conclusion: Take Control of Your Timeshare Journey
The top 10 worst timeshare companies entice customers with misleading sales, exorbitant maintenance costs, and issues with resale. The companies that receive the most timeshare owner complaints are Wyndham, Diamond, and Marriott Vacations Worldwide. Smart timeshare exit strategies, such as deed-backs, legal assistance, or trustworthy exit firms, are necessary for escaping. Always conduct a timeshare contract review before signing and explore alternatives to timeshares for hassle-free vacations.
Do not give up if you are stuck. Make use of your timeshare cancellation rights, look for timeshare owners’ legal assistance, or offer your unit on secure resale websites. You can escape and keep out of traps in the future by remaining informed.
FAQ’s
1. What Are the Worst Timeshare Companies to Avoid?
The worst timeshare companies include Wyndham Vacation Resorts, Diamond Resorts, Marriott Vacations Worldwide, Holiday Inn Club Vacations, Bluegreen Corporation, Westgate Resorts, Shell Vacation Club, Hilton Grand Vacations, WorldMark by Wyndham, and Anfi Group. These companies face timeshare owner complaints for high-pressure sales, rising timeshare maintenance fees, and timeshare resale problems. Owners report deceptive promises about booking ease or resale value, making these companies risky. Always conduct a timeshare contract review before signing.
2. Why Do Timeshare Owners Have So Many Complaints?
Timeshare owner complaints often stem from misleading sales tactics, high timeshare maintenance fees, and difficulty exiting contracts. Owners feel trapped by lifelong agreements, with fees averaging $1,120 annually and rising 2-12% yearly. Many complain about overbooked resorts, making vacations hard to plan. Timeshare resale problems also frustrate owners, as units sell for $1 or less due to low demand. Seeking legal help for timeshare owners or exploring timeshare exit strategies can address these issues.
3. What Are Timeshare Maintenance Fees, and Why Are They a Problem?
Timeshare maintenance fees are annual charges for resort upkeep, taxes, and utilities, averaging $1,120 per year. They’re due even if you don’t use the timeshare, and non-payment risks credit damage or foreclosure. Fees often rise unpredictably, sometimes exceeding vacation value. Owners complain about fees outpacing benefits, especially with companies like Wyndham or Diamond. Request a fee schedule during a timeshare contract review to avoid surprises.
4. Why Are Timeshare Resale Problems So Common?
Timeshare resale problems occur because of oversupply and low demand. Most timeshares sell for $1 or less on platforms like eBay due to timeshare maintenance fees and complex contracts. Professional brokers focus on luxury units, ignoring most owners. Scammers exploit this, charging upfront fees to “sell” timeshares and disappearing. To avoid losses, try listing on RedWeek or gifting the unit, or pursue timeshare exit strategies if resale fails.
5. What Are Timeshare Cancellation Rights?
Timeshare cancellation rights allow buyers to back out within a rescission period, typically 3-15 days in the U.S., depending on state laws. You must send a certified letter to cancel. After this period, cancellation is harder but possible through deed-back programs or legal action for fraud. Check your contract and local laws for specifics. A timeshare contract review by an attorney can clarify your rights and options.
6. What Are the Best Timeshare Exit Strategies?
Timeshare exit strategies include:
- Contact the Resort: Ask about deed-back or surrender programs.
- Sell or Gift: List on eBay, Craigslist, or RedWeek, or gift to family.
- Hire an Attorney: Lawyers negotiate exits or sue for misrepresentation.
- Use Reputable Exit Companies: Choose BBB-accredited firms like The Stonegate Firm, which uses escrow to avoid scams. Avoid companies charging upfront fees. Always verify credentials and read reviews before proceeding.
7. When Should I Seek Legal Help for Timeshare Owners?
Seek legal help for timeshare owners if you’re misled during sales, stuck in a perpetual contract, or facing foreclosure. Attorneys can review contracts, negotiate with resorts, or file lawsuits. Firms like The Timeshare Law Firm have helped over 9,000 owners exit legally. Costs range from $1,000 to $10,000, but escrow options protect payments. A timeshare contract review by a lawyer can uncover exit options or grounds for cancellation.
8. How Can I Perform a Timeshare Contract Review?
A timeshare contract review involves checking key clauses like maintenance fee increases, exit terms, booking restrictions, and inheritance obligations. Hire a real estate or consumer protection attorney to spot red flags, such as high-pressure sales or vague promises. Request the contract before signing and avoid rushed decisions. A thorough review prevents regret and clarifies timeshare cancellation rights.
9. What Are Alternatives to Timeshares?
Alternatives to timeshares offer flexibility without lifelong commitments. Options include:
- Vacation Rentals: Book through Airbnb or Vrbo for no annual fees.
- Hotel Loyalty Programs: Earn points with Hilton or Marriott for free stays.
- Fractional Ownership: Some properties hold value, unlike timeshares.
- Travel Clubs: Offer discounts but require scam research. These avoid timeshare maintenance fees and resale problems, giving you freedom to vacation on your terms.
10. How Can I Avoid Timeshare Scams?
To avoid timeshare scams, research companies thoroughly. Check BBB ratings and Trustpilot reviews before hiring exit firms. Avoid companies demanding upfront fees, as legitimate ones use escrow or charge after success. Report scams to the FTC or FBI’s IC3. Always conduct a timeshare contract review before signing and consult an attorney for timeshare exit strategies. Staying cautious protects your money and peace of mind.
