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 a part of ARDA. Additionally, the Code of Ethics in the 80s was implemented to help weed out timeshare companies and associates who give timeshare a bad name by hurting owners and the industry. Today, as people look for viable solutions, ARDA is a trusted source.
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.
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 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.
