Is Now a Good Time to Sell a Timeshare?

Wes Kogelman

June 09, 2023

The timeshare industry has recently experienced significant fluctuations. While periods of economic prosperity have fueled growth in the market, other times of uncertainty, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, have raised important questions for owners. As of mid-2023, a question currently on the minds of many timeshare owners is: is now a good time to sell a timeshare?

The reality is that the best time to sell a timeshare depends on a host of variables, including the economic climate, the timeshare marketplace, the resort location and appeal of your timeshare, as well as your personal financial circumstances. Let's take a closer look at these variables to make a more informed decision.

Economic Climate and Timeshare Market

Generally, when the economy is performing well, consumers are more likely to make discretionary purchases such as timeshares. That said, the global pandemic has presented unique challenges to the travel and hospitality industry, resulting in an industry slowdown. However, as we're currently emerging from the pandemic with more relaxed travel restrictions, the timeshare market is seeing a resurgence of interest.

As a matter of fact, the timeshare industry rebounded from the impact of the pandemic much quicker than the rest of the tourism industry. This was attributed to the pre-paid nature of timeshare ownership since owners had already paid for their accommodation and wanted to use it as soon as possible.

Moreover, the timeshare market in 2023 is on an uptrend, with all of the major hospitality-branded timeshare companies reporting growth during the first financial quarter of the year. With hotel prices in many regions rising due to inflation, many potential buyers are looking at timeshare resales as a more affordable way to secure a holiday destination. Therefore, this could be a promising time to sell a timeshare.

Location and Appeal of Your Timeshare

Location plays an important role in the resale value of a timeshare. Timeshares in sought-after destinations like Hawaii, Florida, or internationally renowned locations such as Cancun often have higher demand. If your timeshare is located in a high-demand area, it may fetch a higher price, especially during periods of economic recovery and increased travel.

The appeal of your timeshare resort is another crucial factor. Upscale resorts with plentiful amenities and high-quality services are more likely to attract buyers. Therefore, if your timeshare property fits these criteria, it could be a good time to sell.

Personal Financial Circumstances

Another big factor to consider is your personal financial situation. If you find the maintenance fees, special assessments, or the overall cost of owning a timeshare burdensome, it could be the right time to sell, irrespective of the market conditions. Selling a timeshare can free up funds for other financial priorities or reduce debt, which can provide significant peace of mind.

Resale Industry Innovations

The emergence of digital platforms such as SellaTimeshare.com designed to facilitate the buying and selling of timeshares cannot be overstated. These platforms provide owners with more control and transparency over the selling process, making it easier to find potential buyers. They are also eliminating the need for high-pressure sales tactics often associated with sales teams at timeshare resorts, making it an opportune time to sell your timeshare to savvy buyers looking for deals online.

Market Saturation in a Desirable Location

The timeshare resale market for a popular location can sometimes be saturated with sellers. A surplus of timeshares can lead to a buyer's market, where prices may be lower due to the high availability. Conversely, a shortage for prime resort timeshares can lead to a seller's market, such as with Westin Kaanapali, where some prices may increase. Assessing the current supply-demand dynamics of your specific timeshare market can give you a better sense of potential pricing and the likelihood of making a sale.

Reputation of the Timeshare Company

The reputation of your timeshare company can significantly impact your ability to sell. Companies with strong reputations for quality and service can command higher resale prices, such as the case with the Disney Vacation Club. Additionally, if the company has a sound financial standing, like with the Marriott Vacation Club, it can provide reassurance to potential buyers. If your timeshare is associated with a reputable company, this could enhance your chances of a successful sale.

Future Resort Developments

Plans for future developments at your timeshare resort can also impact its attractiveness. For example, if there are upcoming projects like a new restaurant, bars, shops, or improved infrastructure, this could boost the appeal of your timeshare. Conversely, if your resort hasn’t been updated or refurbished in a number of years, it could decrease its value. Therefore, keeping an eye on the news about improvements at your timeshare can be beneficial.

So, is Now a Good Time to Sell a Timeshare?

Is now a good time to sell a timeshare? In light of the recovering economy, a robust timeshare resale market, increased travel, and the rise of online platforms, the answer is 'yes'—especially if your financial circumstances necessitate the sale.

However, remember that each situation is unique. Because of the way today’s timeshare programs are structured, even timeshares considered to be in less desirable locations can be sold as buyers look for a timeshare with low maintenance fees to use for exchange purposes.

In the current context of 2023, with the economy recovering and digital platforms simplifying the selling process, it is an opportune time to sell, as long as your personal circumstances and the specifics of your timeshare align favorably.

Thorough research, careful consideration of all factors involved, and potentially seeking advice from a professional such as agents with our sister company, Timeshare Broker Associates, you can gain a clearer picture to ensure you make the most informed decision possible.

If you are ready to sell your timeshare our no upfront fee, automated program is the easiest way to put your timeshare up for sale on the resale market. Just be sure to have your ownership details ready to enter into our system. Items such as:

• Name of your resort or club program
• Number of bedrooms/bathrooms or points to sell
• Season of ownership
• Yearly usage (annual or every other year)
• Contact details – so we can respond with offers
• Asking price – this is where our market analysis tool can help

Ready to begin the process of selling your timeshare? Get started here.