Having a timeshare problem at some point is inevitable, but if you are clever and careful, you can avoid the more common timeshare problems.

I’m having trouble getting the weeks I want

This timeshare problem is most common among those who are new to the business of timeshare and vacation clubs. In order to avoid disappointment you should book your unit and dates as far in advance as possible; most resorts allow you to book a certain set of weeks up to 2 years in advance. If you book as early as possible then you shouldn’t find yourself in the, rather irritating, position of having to use more timeshare points to get a larger suit or pay the difference for an upgraded unit.

I don’t have enough timeshare points!

You might find at some point that you don’t have enough timeshare privileges to get a certain length of time or stay in a particular unit. If this is the case, most vacation clubs and timeshare companies that work on a points system will allow you to borrow timeshare points to make up the difference (usually up to five years for full members). This way you can simply make up the difference by using less points in following years.

I need a bigger unit

This timeshare problem is perhaps the most easily fixed; if you need a bigger unit for a special occasion or one-off vacation then most companies will allow you to borrow points to get what you need. Or, if you plan ahead, you could bank points for use on a bigger, more luxurious suite for a future occasion or vacation. If you’re looking for a more permanent upgrade then you should talk to an agent from the members services team about upgrades.

I can’t afford my maintenance fees

This timeshare problem can bring more weighty problems if you don’t deal with it straight away. If you are unable to pay your maintenance fees then it is also likely that you cannot afford to take a vacation at your timeshare either. In most cases, not being able to pay your maintenance fees is a temporary situation. In such cases, it’s best to inform your timeshare company and see about banking your points for the next year. You will, hopefully, be able to pay your maintenance fees in the meantime and, thereby, avoid legal action.

I want to cancel my timeshare

This isn’t actually a timeshare problem if you choose to cancel within the cooling off period after you purchase your timeshare. However, if you wish to cancel your timeshare after that time it will become a problem. Unless you have proof of a timeshare scam it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to legally break your contract. You might be better off trying to sell or rent it in order to avoid defaulting on your contract and face legal action.