For over 50 years, ARDA has been a leading force for good in the timeshare industry. ARDA works with vacation clubs, developers, and exchange companies to create a safer industry. These groups aren’t the only ones ARDA works to protect though. In fact, ARDA’s efforts also make sure that timeshare owners can sell their ownership safely. But how exactly does ARDA protect these very different groups, and how did the group come to be? Here is everything you need to know about ARDA.
What Is ARDA?
In the early days of timeshare, the industry was unregulated. This lack of regulation initially led to a flood of timeshare scams, which in turn caused problems for owners and resort developers alike. So, there was a need for not only regulation but also protection for timeshare owners.
This need gave rise to the creation of ARDA, a trade association specifically designed to protect and advocate for the timeshare industry and its owners as a whole. As we mentioned earlier, ARDA has made improvements in many areas of the industry to make the industry safer, like advocating for a rescission period, financial assurances, and required escrow for purchaser funds.
Today, ARDA works harder than ever to provide safety and opportunity for owners, professionals, and developers in the space of timeshare.
Becoming a Member
In order to become a member, companies and individuals must abide by a strict code of ethics. The ARDA Code of Ethics calls for transparency and honesty in the industry. Because of this, only reputable and trusted brands are allowed to become members. A general rule of thumb is that most major developers are a part of ARDA.
Who Can Join ARDA?
Membership is open to just about anyone involved in the vacation ownership industry. This includes developers, exchange companies, resort managers, vacation clubs, industry vendors, timeshare owner associations, resort management companies, and resale or rental companies, as well as other timeshare-related services.
Participating Brand Members
Some of the most recognized names in the industry are members of ARDA, such as:
- Fidelity Real Estate
- Timeshares Only
- Wyndham Destinations
- Marriott Vacation Club
- Disney Vacation Club
- Holiday Inn Club Vacations
- RCI
- Hyatt Vacation Club
- Breckenridge Grand Vacations
- Bluegreen Vacations
- Interval International
- Welk Resorts
- Exploria
- Vistana Signature Experiences
With such a wide range of respected brands and organizations involved, ARDA membership is seen as a sign of trustworthiness and commitment to ethical standards in the timeshare industry.
ARDA Resort Owners Coalition
ARDA-ROC was the first group funded to protect timeshare owners from restrictions or increases in ownership costs. Additionally, this group regularly advocates on behalf of timeshare owners’ wants and needs. ARDA-ROC fights for the rights of timeshare owners by standing up to legislation that might negatively impact them. Over 1.6 million timeshare owners contribute a small amount of money yearly to keep ARDA-ROC running.
How Maintenance Fees Support ARDA and ARDA-ROC
You might be surprised to learn that a small portion of your annual maintenance fees actually goes toward supporting the initiatives of ARDA and ARDA-ROC. This collective pool of contributions from timeshare owners helps fund advocacy efforts, legal protections, and educational programs. In other words, when you pay your maintenance fees, you’re also playing a part in ensuring industry transparency, owner protections, and ongoing improvements in the timeshare space. This collaboration between owners and ARDA-ROC allows for a stronger, more unified voice in defending the rights and interests of timeshare owners everywhere.
ARDA Spring Conference
In order to maintain community and success within the industry, ARDA hosts an annual Spring Conference. This annual conference takes place to bring members of the timeshare industry together. It’s an opportunity for industry leaders, developers, and other parties to get together to learn about the state of the industry. This conference is one of the best ways to network within the industry. So, if you are in the timeshare business, then you should definitely consider attending!
Additionally, at this event, ARDA recognizes outstanding members in the timeshare industry with awards ranging from innovation to customer service. By highlighting achievements within the industry, ARDA recognizes those working hard to maintain the integrity of the timeshare industry.
ARDA WIN
The ARDA WIN committee was designed for women in the industry to meet, collaborate, and excel together. With quarterly and annual meetings, the group strives to give professional women a place to change the industry from the inside out. Additionally, ARDA Win hosts special events like Pinktober, a fundraising event for breast cancer research.
Timeshare Young Professionals Group
As for the new generation of timeshare professionals, ARDA created the Timeshare Young Professionals Group. The group meets several times throughout the year to bring young professionals together for networking and learning events.
AIF and Timeshare
Also known as AIF, the ARDA International Foundation began in 1982 to expand the research and education about the timeshare industry. This leg of the association works to provide the industry with the most current statistics about timeshares and identifies the industry’s ever-changing technology. Additionally, to keep a pulse on the industry and consumers, AIF generates reports annually. AIF aims to be the best source of information for those looking to learn more about the timeshare industry.
The Coalition for Responsible Exit
Owners hoping for a safe way out of their timeshare can look to ARDA’s Responsible Exit program. This program is a great way for owners to find solutions that will allow them to move on from their ownership by connecting them to companies that can help. Developers and industry partners have the opportunity to join the Responsible Exit coalition if they meet ARDA’s standards for ethics. One of the most important requirements to be a member is to provide safe and legitimate exit solutions. So, if you need help exiting your timeshare, call your developer first, then visit the coalition’s website.
The Risks of Working with Timeshare Exit Companies and Attorneys
While the idea of an easy, “risk-free” exit from your timeshare can be appealing, it’s important for owners to understand the potential pitfalls of working with timeshare exit companies and cancellation attorneys. Many of these businesses advertise guaranteed results and promise full refunds if they can’t deliver, but the reality isn’t always so simple.
Unfortunately, the secondary market for timeshares is relatively small, creating an opportunity for less reputable companies to take advantage of owners seeking a way out. Here are some risks to keep in mind:
- Deceptive Promises: Some exit companies claim they can get you out of your timeshare contract without any risk or cost, but these promises can often be too good to be true.
- Lack of Industry Oversight: Many of these companies are not affiliated with respected industry organizations like ARDA and may not follow established codes of ethics.
- Financial Scams: Owners have reported paying upfront fees for exit services, only to find no real progress made on their behalf and, in some cases, even greater financial loss.
- Legal Complications: Some attorneys or firms may use questionable tactics that could jeopardize your credit or leave you vulnerable to lawsuits from your resort.
If you’re considering an exit company, do thorough research and look for organizations endorsed by groups like ARDA or recognized within the industry for ethical practices. Always read contracts carefully and be cautious of anyone asking for large payments upfront or guaranteeing quick and easy solutions. When it doubt, choose to sell on Fidelity’s resale market!
Legitimate Ways to Buy or Exit a Timeshare
When it comes to making changes to your timeshare ownership—whether you’re looking to buy, rent, or part ways—it’s important to take a well-informed and cautious approach. Fortunately, options exist for each stage of your vacation ownership journey.
Buying a Timeshare
If you’re interested in purchasing a timeshare, consider exploring the robust resale market. Many reputable companies, such as ARDA-endorsed resellers like Fidelity Real Estate, provide access to a variety of listings and can help match buyers to the perfect vacation ownership opportunity. Shopping the resale market allows you to compare resorts, locations, and prices, often at significant savings compared to purchasing directly from a developer.
Safe and Legitimate Timeshare Exit Solutions
Life can change, and so can your vacation needs. If you find yourself needing to exit your timeshare, it’s vital to work only with legitimate resources. ARDA’s Responsible Exit program connects owners to vetted companies and developers who meet strict ethical standards for safe and lawful exits. One of the best first steps is to contact your timeshare developer directly, as many offer assistance or in-house solutions for owners ready to move on.
Be cautious of companies making bold claims—like guaranteed exits with no risk and up-front fees. Often, these groups operate outside the oversight of organizations like ARDA, and there’s an increased risk of encountering scams. Look for companies that are ARDA members or who are recognized by groups such as ARDA-ROC or featured on ResponsibleExit.com.
Key Takeaways
- Buying: Shop the resale market with a reputable, ARDA-approved company like us!
- Exiting: Begin by contacting your developer and using ARDA’s Responsible Exit resources or coalition partners.
Taking these steps ensures you’re using legitimate, safe, and effective methods for entering, enjoying, or leaving timeshare ownership.
The Best Exit Solution for Timeshare Owners
Speaking of Responsible Exit, if you’re looking for a safe way out of your timeshare, selling it on the resale market is a great choice. Timeshares aren’t an investment, but you may still be able to put some money back in your pocket or recoup ownership costs. Not to mention, the best companies give you plenty of control over the entire sales process.
Sell Your Timeshare with Fidelity Real Estate
If you’re looking to sell your timeshare, you’re already in the right place! Fidelity Real Estate is one of ARDA’s featured resellers, which means you can rest assured you’ll be working with the best in the business when it comes to moving on from your ownership. Our team of Licensed Real Estate Agents guarantees a transparent, honest, and professional process for listing and closing your timeshare sale. With over 20 years of experience in assisting owners in selling their timeshares, you can rely on our expertise. We’ll guide you every step of the way to make the sales process as straightforward as possible.
Give us a call today at 1-800-410-8326 or email us at [email protected] to get started! Or fill out the form below for a free one-on-one consultation.
