1. Buy a timeshare on the resale market to save significant marketing expenses that can consist of up to half of the purchase price from a timeshare developer. These high expenses are the main reason why developers charge as much as they do for a timeshare. Not only can you save 30% to 50% or more when you buy a timeshare on the resale market but you skip the high-pressure sales routine at the timeshare resort.

2. Buy a timeshare direct (without a broker) as it results in a lower price to you because the seller does not have to pay a commission and can afford to accept a lower price for the timeshare.

3. Consider your lifestyle and what you value in a travel experience as you are looking for your timeshare and choose what best meets those considerations.

4. A timeshare purchase provides you with a vacation lifestyle to be enjoyed for years to come. It should not be purchased solely as a traditional real estate investment.

5. Understand the terms of the timeshare. Is the timeshare week fixed or floating? Is it a right-to-use or fee simple plan? What is the exchange potential of the timeshare?

6. If the exchange benefit of the timeshare is the primary reason for the timeshare purchase, buy in high season with a desirable timeshare unit to maximize the timeshare exchange benefit.