Seeking a vacation destination? Check classified ads for ideas. A vacation rental is ideal for people requiring space, privacy and a preferred location. But a vacation rental home may be suitable. Perhaps the cost has soured you. In that case time-sharing may be an ideal compromise. But buyer beware should be taken to heart. If you are already at a timeshare resort then prepare for the dreaded timeshare promotion. There are many elements which make a purchase especially alluring. For one, you are relaxed and pleased with the surroundings; also the staff is friendly. You are now a more vulnerable prospect.

Typically you will be invited to breakfast; bring your antacids and aspirins! Afterward a representative will approach you. With a hearty handshake and smile the “dance” has begun. This person is the “Fronter” who will attempt to qualify you as the decision maker, time-sharing knowledge, and personal details. If you exhibit any interest you will be greeted by a second person; this is the “Closer” who will attempt to sign you. Agreeable to purchasing time you may be visited by the “Loader”. This person just happens to know of another who, due to unforeseen circumstances, has had to cancel and forfeit the deposit; more weeks are thus available at a discount. Worst case your original deal is cemented. Make sure you’ve gotten full disclosure as to maintenance fees (usually equal to the cost of one night), and other acquisition costs. But it is best not to commit right away.

If you do, know that most states allow a cancellation period. Use the extra time to check classified ads to gauge the market and get a feel for prices. The first thing that you’ll notice is the price disparity between new and resales. There are motivated sellers at low prices in any economic environment. Another reason, contrary to what you may have been told, timeshares are not investments. They will likely depreciate in value because in good times more units are built or converted; in bad times the market is flooded with sellers. The advantage of checking local classified ads is the opportunity perhaps to speak with an actual person’s vacation rental experiences. And you will avoid commissions and other expenses. Also seek resort guests who may already be owners-if not there then at another resort. This brings up the subject of trading weeks. Switching time periods at your resort may mean different accommodations each time. And if you buy in a less than ideal location and/or buy in an undesirable time frame, your likelihood of trading to another resort is diminished.

At a fair price time-sharing represents value as a vacation rental. Who knows? One day you might want to rent out your unit or sell it. You’ll find that classified ads are a useful, personal tool for reaching motivated prospects!