The internet has changed everything, and timeshare is no different.
The web has made it easier to research timeshare resorts, timeshare programs and more.
It provides a platform for owners to speak to their resorts, each other, and even articles like this one.
Here is a very subjective selection of what I consider the best websites for timeshare owners to bookmark (in no particular order):
Interval International and RCI – While there are many exchange companies, RCI and Interval are the proverbial “Coke and Pepsi” of the industry. Virtually every timeshare resort in the world is part of one or the other; some can be traded via both. Other companies serve specific niches of the industry, whether a region or a type of property, and may be the best for a particular exchange, as a general rule, Interval or RCI are going to offer the widest variety of choice and flexibility.
Trip Advisor – like Yelp.com, but focused on travel opportunities. While many of the reviews are written by non-timeshare owners renting at the properties, Trip Advisor still has among the widest range of reviews available.
Kayak – Both Kiplinger’s and USA Today consider Kayak one of the best sites for scoring the best deal on airfares. It retrieves pricing from many sites, including Orbitz and Expedia, as well as the individual airlines themselves. Bear in mind that some of the best known discount carriers like Jet Blue and Southwest don’t make their fares available through other sites, so you may want to check them individually.
Redweek.com and eBay – Redweek.com is a site specializing in timeshare rentals and timeshare resales. Much of the content is available at no charge, but if you want to list a unit for sale or rent, you must be a member. There is also a modest listing fee, covering 6-12 months. Another useful area is the discussion forum, but use the search function if you are looking for specific information.
eBay has a large base of users, and it creates opportunities for people who weren’t considering a timeshare purchase to discover the opportunities while doing other searches. It also provides a platform where individual sellers can compete, at least for visibility, with some of the larger sellers. They also charge a fee to the seller for both rentals and resales, which varies according to the length of the listing. They also make available, for a reasonable fee, tools to customize your listing, including professional grade photos of many resorts.
Your Resort/Program site – Your program’s website will often be a good resource for special events taking place at the property, whether its fireworks on the 4th of July or a miniature golf championship – yes, I know one property known for that.
You can also find out about bonus time, or buying or selling your time.