Learn How to Exchange Your Timeshare

When you purchase a timeshare, you can vacation around the world! The flexibility of exchange is one of the best features of timeshare ownership. There are numerous exchange companies in the United States. The two largest are Resort Condominiums International (RCI) and Interval International (II). RCI has more than three million members worldwide, who enjoy dream vacations at 3,700 affiliated resorts. Membership costs $89 for the first year and the exchange fee is $149 for U.S. resorts and $189 for international resorts. II has more than 1.8 million member families and more than 2,000 resorts. Membership costs $84 for the first year and II charges similar amounts for a completed trade. You would most likely join the exchange company that is affiliated with the resort where you purchased your timeshare. Some resorts have dual membership with both RCI and II.

Members can deposit their timeshare week one to two years in advance for exchange use at an earlier or later date. Your deposited week is evaluated for trade value based on the demand for that week at your home resort along with the resort location, resort quality, sleeping capacity and exchange demand. Usually you can exchange to timeshares of equal or lesser value. Exchange demand is identified by color as three different seasons. At RCI, red is high season, white is mid-season and blue is swing season. At II, red is high season, yellow is mid-season and green is swing season. Resorts are rated at RCI as Gold Crown or Resorts of International Distinction. II identifies its premier resorts as five-star. If you own a two-bedroom timeshare week in prime season at a five-star resort, you will likely be able to exchange it for a like unit at another five-star resort. That is why it is important to buy in prime season. You will truly see the value when you go to exchange your timeshare. However, if you like to travel during swing season, you can save big money on the initial purchase of your timeshare and still enjoy the benefits of exchange.

There are numerous ways you can maximize the exchange value of your timeshare. Both RCI and II recommend that you deposit your resort week as early as possible, up to one year before it starts or two years if your resort participates in the Early Deposit program. An early deposit improves your chances of a favorable match. You should also submit your exchange request early, as soon as you decide where you want to travel. Flexibility on choice of resorts and dates will help speed up fulfillment of your request. You should submit at least three different resorts and two different time periods.

Our friendly timeshare agents are happy to answer your questions about exchanging or any topic concerning timeshares. Simply call toll free 1-800-996-2001 and one of our professional real estate agents will assist you. Or you may visit our web site at www.timeshare-resale.com Next month, we'll talk about some of the “tricks of the trade” to further maximize your exchange value.