1. Request a "FREE Timeshare Information Buyers Guide" then read it. It's loaded with additional tips and other valuable information that will help you to learn more about timeshare before you buy. Click here to receive your "FREE" Timeshare Information Buyers Guide

2. Buy Timeshare ownership for the benefits the product offers. Click Here to See a List of Benefits

3. Do not purchase timeshares as a real estate investment even if the resort is in a great location. If you think that timeshare will go up in value, you'll be wrong 99.9% of the time.

4. Be leery of any sales person who sells timeshares as a real estate investment because it is not. Run...do not walk from the presentation if the sales person is making claims that your "investment will appreciate."

5. If you must look at timeshare ownership as an investment, then look at it as an investment in a lifetime of travel & fun with family, friends and loved ones.

6. Do not buy timeshare ownership thinking that you'll make a profit by renting your villa out when you're not using it. Renting the villa is an option available to every timeshare owner but shouldn't be the main reason you become an owner.

7. Determine in advance how you think you will use your timeshare and if you like the product, think you'll use it and you can afford it, start checking out some resorts.

8. Determine the size of the unit you'll need to accommodate the family and friends you'll be vacationing with. If you only need accommodations for 2 people then a one bedroom unit will suit you just fine. On the other hand if you need to be able to accommodate 6 - 8 people, then a 2 or 3 bedroom unit would be in order.

9. If visiting a timeshare resort in person, look for signs of good management. Notice if the resort is well maintained. Check the condition of the villas and resort amenities. Check out the quality of the housekeeping and watch for friendly service.

10. If you are purchasing through the mail and won't be seeing the resort in person, ask to speak with 2-3 long time owners and talk with them about their experience with the vacation ownership resort you are considering purchasing from. Resorts should happily provide you with a few owner references if asked.

11. Ask for a discount if you purchase through the mail and don't visit the resort in person. Timeshare resorts spend millions in advertising and marketing to attract potential buyers. A ready buyer is less costly and should receive a discount from the resort developer when the developer has no marketing costs invested.

12. Don't let the negative opinions of uninformed people keep you from becoming a timeshare owner. Timeshare ownership continues to work for millions of people all over the world.

13. Make sure you understand the type of timeshare plan you are purchasing and how it works. Is it deeded or right to use? Are the weeks fixed or floating? Can the week be split up? Is it a point-based program?

14. Ask if the resort is a member of the industry association known as ARDA. Members of ARDA agree to follow the ARDA code of ethics and are expected to adhere to the highest standards of quality and service.

15. If you are purchasing primarily to take advantage of the exchange benefit, buy the largest unit in the most popular season, or largest points package you can afford, as this will provide greater exchange potential.

16. Expect to be treated with courtesy and respect when dealing with any timeshare resort and their employees. The industry has evolved and most resorts are committed to making sure your experience with timeshare ownership is positive whether you become an owner or not.

17. Read all of the purchase documents carefully. Make sure that all representations, product features or claims are backed up in writing.

18. Choose a vacation that fits your lifestyle. Think carefully about what you value most in a vacation and travel experience, then explore the wide variety of timeshare products and options available and choose those which best suit your needs. In addition to visiting a resort and talking to industry professionals, a friend or relative who owns a timeshare may be a great resource as you gather information about the timeshare experience.

19. If you have a question...ASK. And if you don't know what questions you should be asking, Click Here for a FREE List of Questions to Ask.

20. If you want help in selecting a timeshare resort that best meets your needs then Click Here For Our Free Timeshare Information Buyers Service.