Suggested Pre-Purchase Checklist
- Country of home ownership. If you live in Europe then a European base for vacation ownership makes more sense.
- Do you need a one or two bedroom apartment, again based on the needs of your family?
- Enjoy a visit to the resort in interest also keeping your needs as a family or couple in mind. Most programs offer weekend packages prior to the purchase which do not obligate to buy.
- How many years of ownership suits you? For example, 35yrs of vacation ownership for a young family makes sense, for a couple whose children are long grown up then models of 5 and 10 yrs are more attractive. There are programs where you buy a deeded time period. Other programs (in particular in the US) offer ownership with time restriction. The ownership usually is a heritable asset.
- Think about your hobbies and interests. For example if it is a vacation resort offering golf opportunity and access to golf clubs this is ideal.
- The times of year that you want to go on holiday. Make sure that if you have children you know the times of the summer holidays and that you buy periods during the high-season.
- Economic sense. Are you in a position to pay for the ownership. Some vacation resorts offer low interest or no interest loans which is quite attractive, but don`t forget the maintenance and membership costs throughout the ownership period.
- How flexible is the vacation ownership? Can you stay in the hotels associated with the membership and does it have an agreement with exchange programmes such as RCI that allows you to use your membership at other holiday clubs around the world?
- The vacation ownership does not necessarily need an exchange programme associated with it there are exclusive resorts offering just their ownership at amazing destinations, just make sure you know what the membership offers you.
- Sleep over a decision. If you have questions that are reasonable and have not been answered to your full satisfaction then make the head of the sales team aware of this. You must be happy with a purchase. Don’t be afraid to ask.
- If you are a family with young children then look at the facilities for children and if there is a kids club at your home resort. This will make a world of difference to the holidays where you can mix family time and time alone as a couple or simply catching up with your self.
- It is useful to use the internet. Simply look at opinions about the resort.
- You will recognise a reputable 5 star vacation ownership resort by the quality of customer service and care.
- When you visit the resort look at the property and see if it is well maintained.
- Read all documents carefully before you sign.
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