TRI West Timeshare - Mario's Timeshare Tips - Tip 23

Tip 23 - Non USA

In the last few years the number of new foreign resorts has exceeded the number of new USA resorts. Today there are over 5,000 timeshare resorts in more than 80 countries. With Europe, the Caribbean and Mexico being the most likely foreign timeshares for USA residents to purchase.

SINCE MOST FOREIGN TIMESHARES ARE NOT REGISTERED IN THE USA, BUYERS SHOULD CAREFULLY EVALUATE THE CREDIBILITY AND FINANCIAL STRENGTH OF THE DEVELOPER BEFORE BUYING.

Items to think about when considering buying a foreign
timeshare:

    1. The ownership will probably be Right To Use (RTU).
    2. Because it's RTU, it should be less expensive. 
    3. Because it's RTU, the maintenance should be less.
    4. How many years are left on the RTU ownership?
    5. Title insurance will probably not be available.
    6. Is there a USA contact office and phone number?
    7. Do you pay the maintenance fee to a USA office?
    8. Is the country relatively stable?
    9. Is the resort affiliated with RCI or II?
   10. Does the developer have other resorts?
   11. Will you be able to resell it?

There is definitely more risk in purchasing a foreign timeshare, but if you get the right price and you have properly checked out the developer, the risk may be worth it.