Timeshare brokers are individuals or companies that offer timeshare properties for sale, much like real estate agents. Timeshare properties are owned by several people, or groups of people, who each have the opportunity to use the property for a predetermined amount of time each year. These types of properties can range from small hotel rooms to large villas. Brokers provide another option for people who want to use such a place, but may not be able to afford a mortgage on a vacation home.
Most timeshare brokers operate in resort areas or near other popular tourist destinations, such as beaches or amusement parks. This makes good business sense because people are likely to want to purchase timeshares in these locations, so they can vacation there. Brokers also operate in cities, often because this allows them to be accessible to a large number of prospective clients.
Often, people interact with a timeshare broker when they receive a phone call or letter offering a free vacation in a resort area. These offers sometimes require those participating to attend a short real estate presentation during the free trip. Brokers often target people in a key demographic and offer such vacations so that potential buyers can see the timeshare and its amenities, and are enticed to purchase one.
As with other real estate for sale, timeshare prices are negotiable and anyone working with timeshare brokers should keep this in mind. During a sales presentation, the broker will often encourage those interested to buy a property immediately. Potential buyers are often able to negotiate a lower price if they do not feel pressured and are informed about the property.
The use of a broker is not the only way someone can purchase a timeshare. People interested in buying one can often find classified ads, listing properties for sale by the owners, in newspapers or online. It is often a good idea to speak to several timeshare brokers and research by-owner sales simultaneously. Doing so may help a buyer with negotiations because he or she will better understand current market prices as well as the types of properties available.
People wishing to sell a timeshare may want to use the services of timeshare brokers instead of trying to sell the property on their own. While a timeshare broker will typically require payment in the form of a commission, or percentage of the sale price, using such a professional may reach a larger number of potential buyers. Brokers also tend to have more advertising knowledge and be able to publicize the property's availability, which may make for a quick sale or better sale price.
A timeshare broker should make it clear that purchasing a timeshare is not the same as renting. Buying such a property is a form of ownership. Once a person signs such a contract, he or she will be obligated to make scheduled payments and will be responsible to find a replacement buyer if he or she decides to terminate ownership before the end date listed on the contract.