Curious about your timeshare value? Well, like most assets we purchase, timeshare values over time fluctuate, but not in the ways you’d expect. As you’ll learn in this blog, like a car, a timeshare depreciates in value after its initial purchase. However, the personal value of a timeshare, in the form of vacations, memories, and more luxurious experiences, increases as you travel to stunning destinations at top-tier resorts around the world. What’s more, there is one vacation club brand whose timeshares actually tend to appreciate. Have any guesses? Read on to learn more and discover the true value of your timeshare.
Timeshares and Timeshare Ownership
Before we talk about the change of timeshare values over time, it’s important that we discuss what a timeshare actually is. A timeshare, also known as vacation ownership, is a vacation property (such as a villa or condo-style suite) that is shared between multiple owners via allotted time. These timeshare ownership properties are located at special resorts which feature spectacular amenities and generous accommodations. Unlike hotels, vacation ownership resorts offer suites that often include full-size kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and private balconies.
In the timeshare industry, most timeshares are divided into 52 weeks. This way, each owner secures (at least) one full week at the property. So, the meaning of “timeshare” is as simple as it sounds! Owners share the property by time. Moreover, there are many forms of timeshares, from points-based to fixed week, but all of them give owners the ability to use their timeshare for a certain amount of time each year.
Changing Timeshare Values Over Time
When thinking about timeshare value over time, it’s important to remember that timeshares aren’t a financial investment. After you purchase a timeshare, the financial value begins to go down. However, this phenomenon isn’t limited to timeshares. From computers to cars, many products we love depreciate in value. In fact, a new car loses 20 percent of its value in just the first year of ownership. Yet, even with the loss of value, people still love their cars. That’s because while you can get some money back by reselling the car, the main reason you buy one is for the service it provides.
Timeshare worth is the same way. Should you decide to sell your timeshare on the timeshare resale market, you will very rarely receive back the full purchase price. This is because timeshares are meant to be used and enjoyed. However, many timeshare resorts remain in high demand for those looking for a vacation home, especially when they can be bought for a great price. So, there is always a market for timeshare resales. Now that we’ve covered timeshare values over time, let’s discuss other forms of value found in timeshares.
How Your Timeshare Value Changes Over Time in Terms of Usage
One thing that’s great about a timeshare property is its versatility. What most people don’t know about timeshares is that a lot of how timeshare values change over time has to do with the various ways you can use them.
Many timeshares are affiliated with a vacation exchange networks like RCI or Interval International. These networks allow you to trade in your vacation at your timeshare for one at thousands of other resorts around the world. So, if returning to your home resort begins to sound a bit bland, you’ll find great value in being able to exchange your vacation with II or RCI for a stay at another resort elsewhere that year.
You can also gift your timeshare to a friend or loved one if you are unable to personally use your vacation one year. As a result, even in years where you don’t personally visit your timeshare, you’ll be able to get some use out of it. This way, gifting an incredible experience to a friend or loved one gives your timeshare value in absence of a personal vacation.
Timeshare Values Over Time: The Value of Vacation Experience
Another way timeshare values over time may change is in terms of the vacation experience. Timeshare owners pay annual maintenance fees for things like keeping up the quality of the resort and paying its staff, but they have another purpose as well. Developers also use annual maintenance fees to upgrade the resort. This is sometimes the cause of rising annual maintenance fees.
So, when you see a new pool or restaurant at your resort, know that it is your maintenance fees at work. This means that while the price of your timeshare may depreciate, the value of your stay will continue to go up year after year. Studies have shown that people prefer the gift of an experience over physical goods. So, why not spend on something that will give you better vacation experiences over time? This goes to show that a timeshare is worth more than its resale value.
Disney Vacation Club Timeshare Values Over Time
While most timeshares depreciate in value over time, there is one exception: Disney Vacation Club. Many Disney Vacation Club, or DVC, timeshares can actually appreciate in value due to their high demand. Still, try not to look at these timeshares as an investment. While your Disney Vacation Club points may appreciate over time, DVC timeshares are still intended to provide you with an experience first and foremost.
Additionally, the DVC cost per point is a bit high when compared to other timeshare brands. So, while there’s a lot to love about Disney Vacation Club, you’ll have a few things to keep in mind. Overall, though, Disney Vacation Club is a great brand to buy a timeshare with due to their magical locations, exciting on-site amenities, and spacious accommodations. Here are a few DVC resorts with timeshare points that have appreciated in value over time.
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa oozes style at every turn. From premium accommodations to expert-style elegance, you’ll be sure to have a luxurious stay here. Relax and recharge at the Tenaya Stone Spa. This 6,000-square-foot spa facility offers massages, salon services, and more. The spa also serves as an example of changing timeshare values over time, as it’s a newer addition that opened just three years ago. As a result, owners at the Grand Californian have watched the resort expand and evolve each year. Guests have their choice of one-, two-, or three-bedroom suites. Depending on which is chosen, these suites accommodate six to twelve guests. Talk about spacious! Additionally, the resort features award-winning food and drinks at six on-site restaurants/bars.
Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa
Looking for a vacation house in Hawaii? Hawaii is one of the most popular vacation spots in the world, so it’s no surprise there’s a DVC resort there. Aulani is known for its world-class experiences, like its beautiful beach, interactive splash zone, and lots and lots of pools. You’ll even be able to enjoy a Luau with plenty of delicious food. The resort location is in scenic Ko’Olina, perfect for a beach escape. With Aulani as your home resort, enjoy accommodations ranging from deluxe studios to three-bedroom grand villas. These spacious villas can accommodate four to twelve guests. In addition, villas offer four different views, including a standard view, an island garden view, a poolside garden view, and an ocean view.
Become a Timeshare Owner with the Resale Market
Overall, timeshare value comes from more than just its price. From all the ways you can use it to the ways in which the resorts improve, there are a lot of ways timeshare values change over time. If you’d like a timeshare that is more likely to appreciate in value, Disney Vacation Club has a proven track record, but other timeshare companies like Westgate, Hilton Grand Vacations, and Wyndham Destinations are all also excellent. Although these timeshares rarely appreciate in value, these timeshare brands have a lot to love.
As a trusted member of the American Resort Development Association, or ARDA, here at Fidelity Real Estate, your business is safe with us. Find timeshares for a fair market value, or get an idea of timeshare resale values with our resale marketplace. If you have any questions about buying a timeshare, give us a call at 1-800-410-8326 or email us at [email protected]. Our licensed agents are always happy to help!
Sell Timeshares with Fidelity Real Estate
Many timeshare owners simply stop having enough time for an annual vacation. So, simply fill out the form below if you’re interested in listing your timeshare on the secondary market. One of our timeshare resale experts will reach out to you soon.
