Buying a vacation time-share can end up being among the most regretted big-ticket purchases, but renting a time share from somebody else can be a fabulous idea.
It’s a little-known strategy for getting luxurious digs for less.
“The people who actually know about it can get some amazing deals,” said Brian Rogers, owner of the Timeshare Users Group online site.
Here are some things to consider if you’re interested in renting a time share.
Q: Why would I want to rent a time share?
A: Time-share resorts are often luxury accommodations in the most popular vacation spots: near beaches, theme parks and ski mountains.
Many resorts are run by companies such as Disney, Hyatt and Marriott. They have check-in desks, maintenance crews and other services, similar to a hotel.
But condo units are larger than hotel rooms, with multiple bedrooms and a kitchen. Many also have washing machines and dryers.You also have access to such amenities as swimming pools, tennis courts and social activities.
Be aware that time shares typically rent for a week, and you probably will not get daily maid service unless you pay extra.
Q: Why is now a good time to rent a time share?
A: Hotel chains overbuilt time shares before the economy tanked and had to sell them cheap, which means owners can rent them cheap, according to Consumer Reports Money Adviser.
Q: How much of a bargain will I get?
A: You can save up to half of what a resort might charge for the unit, said Mike Barton, co-owner of . He recently rented a time share in Vail for $1,800 when the resort priced them at $3,000, he said.
“You’ll see weekly rentals from $300 to $1,500 for a week, depending on where they are,” said John Locher, co-founder of time-share rental site .
If you have flexibility, you can rent a time share just a few weeks ahead of time, often for less than $100 a night, Rogers said.
Q: Where do I learn about weeks to rent?
A: Browse listings and contact owners for free at and Timeshare Users Group (). Another good site is , where you can search listings for free but must pay about $15 to contact the owner. These brokers’ sites include user reviews of many resorts. You can also find time-share rentals at Expedia and Travelocity, as well as Craigslist and eBay.
