Many buyers get confused when asked if they have a checklist of things to consider before buying a timeshare. The following paragraphs provide you with a checklist to make sure that you are not missing the important criteria that should be weighed against the timeshare you are buying.

If you are planning to buy timeshare through a broker, make sure that he is licensed. Also, find out his reputation in handling timeshares and the success rate. And do not hesitate to ask any questions related to your timeshare. Some of the good questions to ask are:

* What is the maintenance fee of the resort and do they keep raising it every year. If yes, how much? * What are the chances of getting a best timeshares like in a desired week? * By what date you should make the reservation at the earliest? * Are there any extra benefits accompanying your timeshare? * Do the timeshare company has bonus week program? * Can you exchange or trade your timeshare without joining an exchange company?

Also try to inquire from the broker about the point system. Some reputable firms sell the timeshares for more if they have points system. Ask him if this is reasonable or if you are better off buying a resale. Also, the factors that determine the cost of timeshare units are demand for a particular week may be high so the price may be high. Demand for a particular location may also be high. The size of the unit also affects the price, the bigger units are easy to trade in and exchange hence they are in more demand. Last, but not least, the reputation of the firm owning the timeshare resort is an important factor.

See the unit before you buy. In many cases, the descriptions provided by the timeshare company or the re-seller turns out to be misleading like the location, size of the unit, etc. If you cannot see it personally, if your family members or friends lives near the location tell them to go and see the unit. Additionally, try to get references. When you go and see the unit, ask the neighbors what they think of the amenities and the management. You can also inquire from them:

* What they think of the resort? * Time since they have been vacationing in this resort? * Are dates easy get without much problems? * Is the management company good and are they satisfied? * How about the maintenance fees and other fees? Do they have a good record or they raise it too frequently? * Is it easy to make reservations and exchanges? * Are developers planning on improving the property in near future?

Online auction sites can help you do your homework and find out the prices in the area you are looking at buying.

Keep in mind that if you are buying a resale timeshare unit, it should be as cheap as half the price of the new timeshare unit that developers sell. If you are buying a new timeshare through a timeshare company, read everything carefully in fine print before signing any contracts. When buying a resale timeshare, ask the seller why they are selling it because there can be an underlying problem like problems with the management company or inconvenience. This way you can get a feel of the potential problems that you may also have to face and can decide whether you may be able to handle it or not. Also, make sure that there are no past dues on maintenance fees and property taxes, as these will add up your cost. If you take care of all these important factors, you should be able to make a smarter decision in buying a timeshare.

Buy-Timeshares-Online.com showcases hundreds of Florida timeshares as well as time shares around the world.