Consumer tip: What to consider about timeshares

Are you considering getting a timeshare? Before you sign a timeshare contract, make sure you understand what you’re getting into and how to get out of it. Not all timeshares work the same way. Some use points to determine where you can stay and for how long. Others get you one week a year at a resort, but it’s not always the same week. The cost also varies. Typically, timeshares require you to pay initial fees and yearly maintenance fees that may increase every year.

Before you sign that timeshare agreement, ask yourself:

• If the timeshare is only for a specific property, is this where I want to vacation every year?

• Can I afford this timeshare, even if the maintenance fees go up?

• Do I have the time to deal with issues that may arise if I can’t book the resort I want during the time I want to travel?

• If I no longer can afford or want the timeshare, how can I sell it?

More information at marincountyda.org or 415-473-6495