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Author:
Dana Sanders

Does the ideal of purchasing a timeshare vacation package sound exciting? It should be, at the least, an exciting endeavor. Imagine your first inexpensive trip to the beach, a romantic week away or a much-deserved escape from the hustle and stress of the real world!

Ever think 'timeshare' only to have fraud be the next thing on your mind? You are not alone. Yet the simple truth of the matter is timeshares are generally a brilliant, safe and accommodating way to experience many popular vacation hotspots or secluded geographical treasures in the United States or abroad.

While purchasing timeshare options are usually safe, there are some common pitfalls - including less-than-honest dealings by some companies offering timeshares. But there are foolproof ways to avoid being caught unaware while searching for and purchasing the timeshare plan best suited for you and your family.

The first rule is an easy one - go with the larger, well-established companies. Common sense tells us that if they have been around for years it is less likely they would ruin their impeccable reputation with any type of fraudulent behavior. This especially holds true during the initial purchase or resale of a timeshare package.

Another important tool used to avoid timeshare fraud is to be certain you fully understand the contents of your contract. For example, a less than reputable company may make it contractually difficult to sell your timeshare in the event you wanted to do so. Contract literature is at best an art form. And since art comes in various disguises and at times carries a subtle dagger, you should be sure of the contents of your timeshare contract. Again, this is simple common sense as you would carefully consider the contents of any contract before signing on the "dotted line."

Be particularly wary of European and other overseas destinations if you aren't familiar with the company offering the timeshare. Be wary also of any timeshare company asking for upfront fees before they will engage in the sell of property. Blacklists are available to inform of companies that have engaged in timeshare fraud. Both ordinary citizens who have banned together and wish to inform others of their fraudulent timeshare experiences and timeshare companies have created these blacklists.

As you consider the potential for timeshare fraud, remember that there will always be reputable timeshare companies out there that will be straight up with the facts. This, of, course includes many overseas companies. In that regard, do your own research. Timesharing is a popular and unique way to vacation. Perhaps if you were to ask around there are co-workers or relatives who have purchased timeshare packages and were pleased with all aspects of a certain timesharing company.

Becoming the victim of timeshare fraud is a frustrating and often expensive mistake. Research and planning - including having an attorney with your best interests at heart - will help you avoid the fraudulent companies. To get started in your research about timeshare fraud, just log on to the Internet and visit locations such as http://www.tug2.net or http://www.atimes haresz.com/timesharefraud to do a thorough search.

No matter if you are on the red list or the green, regardless if you are expecting first class accommodations or comfortable down home charm, there will be countless timeshare packages that hold true to another cliché, what you see (in the brochures and the videos) is exactly what you will get. But remember, when it comes to timeshares or any other purchase you are considering, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

© Copyright 2005 by Dana Sanders. All rights reserved.

About the author:

Visit http://www.atimesharesz.com/getaways.htm for featured low-priced vacation getaways at popular destinations across the U.S. Looking for information about timeshares? Looking for information about timeshares? Go to http://www.atimesharesz.com. A Timeshares Z is a timeshares and vacation, resort and condo rentals and resales directory.

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A Quick Note From The Publisher... If you like the article above, you may be interested in the following article which is also related to Timeshares... Timeshares Can Be A Great Investment A great vacation getaway location that you own, but don't have all the responsibility for. What a concept! It used to be that timeshares were considered a fad. Some even thought them a scam. But now, years after their first introduction, thousands and thousands of timeshare owners are loving their investment not only for the great locations that are available, but also the financial benefits they can provide. Those who invest in timeshares technically own a piece of the property with a lot of other investors. However, just like regular real estate, the values can go up - a lot. And, there are other financial benefits as well. Timeshares tend to be located in some of the best vacation locations in the world. From the metro areas of Europe to the beaches of Florida, California and beyond, timeshares are generally found in the big tourist areas. They also come in a variety of sizes from regular hotel room type set ups to full condos, complete with kitchens, living areas and more. The flexibility on choice is simply amazing. Investing in a timeshare brings financial benefits both to those who actually use their timeshares for their vacations and those who don't. Let's take a look at both. Investors who use their timeshares can reap these financial rewards: * Avoidance of hotel fees while on vacation. Since the property is already paid for through its monthly payments, a vacation location is guaranteed. * Possible avoidance of exorbitant meal fees. Since a lot of timeshares come with their own full-size kitchens, many who use them can avoid the high cost of eating out. Of course, they might have to do the dishes, but the cost savings can be incredible. * Resale value. Depending on the location and the timeshare's condition, the value on these properties can...