Are you considering selling your Marriott timeshare? Perhaps your travel habits have changed, maintenance fees are becoming a burden, or you simply want to free up some capital for other ventures. Whatever your reason, navigating the timeshare resale market can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be! This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of the process, helping you achieve a successful and stress-free sale.
Step 1: Understanding Your Marriott Timeshare Ownership
Before you even think about listing your timeshare, the absolute first thing you need to do is thoroughly understand what you own. Don't just guess or rely on old memories!
Sub-heading: Gather Your Documentation
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Original Purchase Contract/Deed: This is your foundational document. It will detail whether you own a deeded week, Marriott Vacation Club Destinations points, or a right-to-use contract.
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Maintenance Fee Bills & Tax Statements: These show your current obligations and prove you're up-to-date on payments. Buyers will want to see a clear ownership history with no outstanding balances.
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Any Other Assessments or Program Documents: If you're part of a points-based program, dig out documents related to your annual point allotment, usage rules, and any specific program benefits or restrictions.
Sub-heading: Contact Marriott Owner Services
Still fuzzy on the details? Don't hesitate to contact Marriott Owner Services. They can provide a clear breakdown of your ownership, including:
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How your name appears on the ownership (e.g., individual, joint, trust).
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The exact name of your home resort and your specific inventory number.
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Whether you own a fixed week or a floating week within a season.
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If your usage is annual or every-other-year (biennial).
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Your current maintenance fee dues and any upcoming assessments.
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For Destinations owners: your annual award month for points and the precise number of points.
Pro Tip: Be prepared to take detailed notes during your conversation with Marriott! Also, check your online Marriott Vacation Club account (my-vacationclub.com) for readily available information.
Sub-heading: Account for Current Usage and Reservations
You can't sell what you don't have available! Before advertising, clarify:
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Existing Reservations: Do you have any active reservations for the current or upcoming year?
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Used Vacation Time/Points: Have you already utilized your points or week for the current usage year?
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Deposits with Exchange Companies: Have you deposited your week or points with Interval International or another exchange company?
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Points Conversion: Did you convert your usage into Destination Points or Marriott Rewards Points? (Note: Marriott Rewards Points generally cannot be sold.)
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Rental History: Have you rented out your usage for either year?
Being able to provide accurate information about what a potential buyer can use, and when, is crucial for a smooth transaction.
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| How To Sell Your Marriott Timeshare |
Step 2: Assessing the Marriott Timeshare Resale Market
Unlike traditional real estate, timeshares often depreciate significantly from their original purchase price. Understanding the current resale market is vital to setting a realistic asking price and avoiding frustration.
Tip: Remember, the small details add value.
Sub-heading: Research Comparable Sales
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Online Resale Marketplaces: Sites like RedWeek.com, SellaTimeshare.com, and Timeshares Only are excellent resources. Look for Marriott timeshares similar to yours in terms of:
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Resort Location: Popular destinations often have higher demand.
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Unit Size & Type: (e.g., 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, studio, lock-off).
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Season/Week/Points: Fixed weeks in high-demand seasons, or a generous points allotment, will command more interest.
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Usage Frequency: Annual vs. biennial.
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Maintenance Fees: Higher fees can deter buyers.
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Market Analysis Calculators: Some resale platforms offer free market analysis tools that can give you an estimated value based on recent sales of similar properties.
Sub-heading: Consider Demand and Seasonality
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High-Demand Locations: Resorts in popular vacation spots like Orlando, Hawaii, or certain European destinations may have more active resale markets.
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Peak Season: If you own a fixed week during a prime vacation period (e.g., school holidays, major events), this can increase its appeal. Conversely, off-season weeks or biennial usage might take longer to sell.
Sub-heading: Factor in Marriott's Right of First Refusal (ROFR)
Most Marriott timeshares are subject to Marriott's Right of First Refusal (ROFR). This means that once you have a buyer under contract, Marriott has the option to step in and buy back the timeshare at the same terms and price offered by your buyer. They typically have a set timeframe (often 10-30 days) to exercise this right.
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What it means for you: You need a legitimate buyer first. Marriott won't just buy it back from you directly unless they have a specific buy-back program active for your resort (which is rare).
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Impact on sale: This can add a step to the closing process, but reputable brokers are well-versed in handling ROFR submissions.
Step 3: Choosing Your Selling Method
You have several options when it comes to selling your Marriott timeshare, each with its own pros and cons.
Sub-heading: DIY (Do-It-Yourself) Sale
This involves listing your timeshare yourself on platforms like:
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Specialized Timeshare Resale Websites: RedWeek.com is a popular choice for Marriott owners. You'll pay a listing fee, but you have direct control over your ad and can communicate directly with potential buyers.
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General Online Marketplaces: Sites like eBay or Craigslist can be used, but be extremely cautious of scams.
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Social Media/Personal Network: You might find a buyer through word-of-mouth or by posting in relevant travel groups.
Pros: You save on broker commissions. Cons: Requires significant time and effort for marketing, negotiation, and handling legal paperwork. You're also more susceptible to scams.
Sub-heading: Using a Licensed Timeshare Resale Broker
This is often the most recommended and safest option, especially for those new to the timeshare resale market. A reputable broker specializes in timeshare transactions and can guide you through the entire process.
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What they do:
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Market your timeshare to a targeted audience.
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Assist with pricing strategy.
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Negotiate with potential buyers.
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Handle all necessary paperwork, including the ROFR process.
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Coordinate closing with a reputable title company.
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How to choose a broker:
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Licensing: Ensure they are licensed real estate brokers in their state.
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Experience: Look for brokers with a proven track record, especially with Marriott timeshares.
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No Upfront Fees: This is paramount. Reputable timeshare resale brokers do not charge large upfront advertising or appraisal fees. They work on commission, paid only upon successful sale. Be wary of anyone asking for hundreds or thousands of dollars upfront.
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Reviews & Reputation: Check their Better Business Bureau rating and online reviews.
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Commission Structure: Understand their commission rates upfront (typically 10-20% of the sale price). Note that Marriott's own resale program (if available) may charge much higher commissions.
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Tip: Skim only after you’ve read fully once.
Sub-heading: Direct Sale to Marriott (Developer Buy-Back)
While rare and often not the most financially beneficial, some developers, including Marriott in certain circumstances, might have a program to take back timeshares.
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How to explore this: Contact Marriott directly and inquire about any surrender or buy-back programs they might have.
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Pros: Simplest process, no marketing or closing hassles for you.
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Cons: You will likely receive a very low offer, often just enough to cover closing costs or simply relieve you of the maintenance fee burden. It's usually a last resort for owners who prioritize ease over financial return.
Step 4: Preparing Your Listing and Marketing Your Timeshare
Once you've decided on a selling method, it's time to create an appealing listing.
Sub-heading: Crafting a Compelling Advertisement
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Be Accurate: Provide precise details about your ownership (resort, unit size, view, week number/points, annual/biennial usage).
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Highlight Key Features:
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Marriott's quality and brand recognition are major selling points.
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Mention resort amenities (pools, restaurants, fitness centers, golf courses, spas).
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Describe the unit's features (full kitchen, number of bedrooms/bathrooms, balcony/patio).
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Emphasize the location's appeal (proximity to attractions, beaches, ski slopes, theme parks).
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High-Quality Photos: This is crucial! Use clear, well-lit photos of the unit, resort amenities, and surrounding area. Professional photos can make a significant difference.
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Set a Realistic Price: Based on your market research, price your timeshare competitively. Be prepared to negotiate. A timeshare's value is ultimately what a buyer is willing to pay for it on the resale market.
Sub-heading: Managing Inquiries and Negotiations
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Be Responsive: Promptly answer questions from interested buyers.
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Be Transparent: Disclose all costs (maintenance fees, taxes, potential transfer fees) and any usage restrictions.
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Negotiation: Be flexible. Most timeshare resales involve some negotiation. If using a broker, they will handle this for you.
Step 5: The Sales and Closing Process
This is where the legalities come into play. Working with a reputable timeshare closing company or an experienced broker is highly recommended for this stage.
Sub-heading: Purchase Agreement
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Once a buyer is found and a price is agreed upon, a formal purchase agreement will be drafted. This legally binding document outlines the terms of the sale, including the price, closing date, and any contingencies.
Sub-heading: Escrow and Title Transfer
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Escrow Account: The buyer's funds are typically held in an escrow account by a neutral third party (a reputable title company) until all conditions of the sale are met. This protects both buyer and seller.
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Right of First Refusal (ROFR) Submission: The title company or broker will submit the purchase agreement to Marriott for their ROFR review.
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Deed Transfer/Membership Transfer: If Marriott waives its ROFR, the title company will prepare the new deed (for deeded properties) or transfer documents (for points-based memberships). You will sign over the ownership.
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Recording: For deeded properties, the new deed is recorded with the appropriate county.
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Finalizing Transfer with Marriott: Marriott is notified of the ownership change. The title company will ensure the new owner is properly registered with Marriott and any future maintenance fee statements go to them.
Tip: Reread if it feels confusing.
Sub-heading: Payment and Finalization
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Once the transfer is complete and all conditions are met, the funds from the escrow account (minus any agreed-upon commissions or closing costs) are released to you.
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The entire resale transfer process can take approximately 8-12 weeks from the time a buyer is secured until the funds are dispersed.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to price my Marriott timeshare for resale?
You should research recent sales of similar Marriott timeshares at your resort or in your program. Use online resale marketplaces and their market analysis tools to get a realistic idea of current demand and selling prices, which are often significantly lower than the original purchase price.
How to avoid timeshare resale scams?
Never pay large upfront fees to a company promising to sell your timeshare. Reputable brokers work on commission, paid only after the sale. Be wary of high-pressure tactics, unsolicited calls, and companies asking for personal financial information early in the process. Always verify a company's licensing and check their reputation with the Better Business Bureau.
How to find a legitimate timeshare resale broker for Marriott?
Look for brokers who are licensed real estate agents and specialize in timeshares, particularly Marriott properties. Check their reviews, ensure they have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, and confirm they operate on a commission-only basis, meaning no upfront fees.
How to deal with Marriott's Right of First Refusal (ROFR)?
Marriott's ROFR means they have the option to buy back your timeshare at the same price and terms offered by your buyer. Once you have a signed purchase agreement, your broker or closing company will submit it to Marriott for their review. Marriott typically has a set period (e.g., 10-30 days) to decide whether to exercise their right or waive it.
How to transfer my Marriott timeshare deed or points to the new owner?
QuickTip: Use the post as a quick reference later.
A reputable timeshare closing company or real estate attorney specializes in this. They will prepare the necessary legal documents (like a new deed for deeded properties or transfer forms for points-based ownership), ensure proper signatures, handle recording with the county (if applicable), and notify Marriott of the ownership change.
How to sell a Marriott timeshare if I still owe a mortgage?
Yes, it is possible. You will typically include the remaining mortgage balance in your asking price, and the proceeds from the sale will be used to pay off the mortgage at closing. The title company or broker will coordinate with your lender to ensure the loan is satisfied.
How to know if my Marriott timeshare is a deeded week or points?
Refer to your original purchase contract or deed. It will clearly state whether you own a specific deeded week at a particular resort or a certain number of Marriott Vacation Club Destinations points. If unsure, contact Marriott Owner Services.
How to determine the value of my Marriott Vacation Club points?
The value of Marriott Vacation Club points on the resale market is influenced by the number of points, the home resort (if applicable), the annual or biennial usage, and the current demand. Research similar point packages being sold on reputable timeshare resale sites to gauge their market value.
How to ensure all maintenance fees and taxes are paid before selling?
It's crucial to be current on all maintenance fees and property taxes. The closing company will typically perform a title search to ensure there are no outstanding liens or debts against the timeshare. Any unpaid fees would generally be deducted from the sale proceeds at closing.
How to advertise my Marriott timeshare effectively online?
Use high-quality photos of your unit and the resort, provide a detailed description of the timeshare's features and amenities, and highlight the benefits of the resort's location. Be precise about your ownership details (week/points, usage, resort name), and set a competitive, realistic price based on market research.
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