You've gotten a lot of good feedback, and I have a few thoughts to add.
First, congratulations on doing your research before buying. You are undoubtedly going to be happier as a timeshare owner than most because of this.
Second, although it is wise to think it through in economic terms, there is also a point at which it doesn't have to be justified economically - it can be a lifestyle choice. I think of my many, many neighbors who belong to country clubs with enormous dues, drive expensive cars, or own second homes. They aren't doing these things because it is a smart money decision, they're doing it because this is how they want to spend their money - and that's not necessarily a bad thing!
I happen to own Bluegreen, a points system, and I highly value the flexibility of long weekend trips whenever it suits us.
But a big motivator for me was exactly what you're seeking: the long term family tradition that you and your husband and your kids will treasure. We've owned Bluegreen for about 5 years, and already our home resort (Wilderness Club at Big Cedar) is completely woven into our family's DNA. I've lost track of the number of times we've gone. (I could make the drive in my sleep!) We truly love our time there. My girls have talked about getting married there!
So if buying a timeshare gets you somewhere you want to be but costs you X more than renting each year, and you have that "X", I say go for it.
Anita
PS - also wise to go into it pessimistically. I bought all my points resale and thought each deal was a steal...but the price kept dropping. When we're done with it, I have told myself to expect we'll have to give it away. If I get anything, I'll be pleasantly surprised.
First, congratulations on doing your research before buying. You are undoubtedly going to be happier as a timeshare owner than most because of this.
Second, although it is wise to think it through in economic terms, there is also a point at which it doesn't have to be justified economically - it can be a lifestyle choice. I think of my many, many neighbors who belong to country clubs with enormous dues, drive expensive cars, or own second homes. They aren't doing these things because it is a smart money decision, they're doing it because this is how they want to spend their money - and that's not necessarily a bad thing!
I happen to own Bluegreen, a points system, and I highly value the flexibility of long weekend trips whenever it suits us.
But a big motivator for me was exactly what you're seeking: the long term family tradition that you and your husband and your kids will treasure. We've owned Bluegreen for about 5 years, and already our home resort (Wilderness Club at Big Cedar) is completely woven into our family's DNA. I've lost track of the number of times we've gone. (I could make the drive in my sleep!) We truly love our time there. My girls have talked about getting married there!
So if buying a timeshare gets you somewhere you want to be but costs you X more than renting each year, and you have that "X", I say go for it.
Anita
PS - also wise to go into it pessimistically. I bought all my points resale and thought each deal was a steal...but the price kept dropping. When we're done with it, I have told myself to expect we'll have to give it away. If I get anything, I'll be pleasantly surprised.
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