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Author:
Aaron Vaughn

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 really skyrocket. In areas like Florida where the housing market is going insane, property values are holding and getting better all the time.

For those who don't use their timeshares for personal use, there are these advantages:
* Regular income from rental fees. Timeshares, of course, come with an allotted time each year (or several) where the owner can take advantage of the condo or room's use. Owners who don't use them, tend to rent them out. This can cover payment costs and sometimes even exceed it. If the timeshare is paid off, the benefit is cold, hard cash in the pocket.
* Trade value. Timeshare weeks can be traded with others. So, if you happen to own a timeshare in Florida and you'd like to spend a week in the Caribbean, it's possible you can swap out with another owner for free.
* Resale value. As it is for the owner who takes advantage of their vacation time, the resale values can be quite high. The initial investment is generally returned and then some.

Timeshares are more than a passing fad. They're the way thousands and thousands the world over now enjoy the benefits of "owning" their own vacation property without having to deal with all the hassles of upkeep and maintenance. Getting in on a timeshare can also bring with it some real financial benefits, as well.

Copyright (c) 2006

Aaron Vaughn writes about Timeshares and you can find more news and information about timeshares at the website Timeshare Spaces.

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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... Five Tips For Selling Your Timeshare There are a number of reasons that people choose to sell their timeshare homes or apartments. Whatever your reason for selling, make sure that you make the most of this opportunity by following the tips below. 1. Get a realistic price It’s important that you get a realistic price for your timeshare. Unlike other property, timeshare ownership isn’t an investment and you may not get back what you paid for it. By looking at the location, condition and situation of your timeshare, an experienced timeshare agency will be able to give you an accurate, realistic and achievable valuation that should help you to sell your timeshare quickly. 2. Use a reputable agency Unfortunately, there are several unreputable agencies whose sole aim is to make money – and may not even be interested in selling your timeshare for you. Make sure that you choose an agency that has your interests at heart, by checking whether: • The agency is a member of either the European timeshare governing bodies, or the International Timeshare Resale Association (ITRA) • They have a clear fee structure – good agents will never ask for an up-front fee • They are happy for you to have the resale contract checked by your solicitor • They are happy to provide details of their service in writing 3. Check out advertising Agencies will advertise your timeshare property for you, through a variety of media including newspapers and selected online sites. Check the costs of this advertising and whether, like general estate agents, it is included in the fee. 4. Sort out your paperwork When you bought your original timeshare, it would have come with its own paperwork. You will need this in order to resell your timeshare, and to pass onto the new owners. Make sure it is all in one place and in order before you...