How to research a property

[no1goodwin]

First time trying to buy a timeshare. How can you find out the history of annual fees and special assessments?
Thanks

 

[Panina]

First time trying to buy a timeshare. How can you find out the history of annual fees and special assessments?
Thanks

Call the resort and speak with the property manager. I did this for two properties, telling them I was considering buying a resale and they were very helpful.

 

[theo]

Call the resort and speak with the property manager. I did this for two properties, telling them I was considering buying a resale and they were very helpful.

Good advice, but I also respectfully submit that (much like the investment ad disclaimers always say) "past performance does not guarantee future results".
There may not have been significant increases (or special assessments) in the recent past, but unexpected events (like hurricane damage) can change that picture in a big hurry ---- as many of us will likely soon be reminded in the aftermath of Irma.

A change in Board composition or management company (or both) can also result in a unexpected "blip" on a resort's maintenance fee "radar screen".

 

[WalnutBaron]

I would also recommend that you inquire about the governance and make-up of the Board of Directors. Is the Board made up mostly or entirely of Developer representatives or is it a Board of regular owners like you and me? I have always preferred to have non-corporate board members, because their interests (keeping the property modernized through regular soft goods upgrades, occasional technological upgrades, and regular maintenance--all without jacking up annual MF's above annual CPI increases) align most closely with my own.

Corporate directors answer to their corporation--and those interests not only are not aligned with mine as an owner, but often are in direct conflict with mine.

 

[TUGBrian]

can also contact an owner thru a resale ad to ask common questions!

 

[chalee94]

Disney is unusual for a number of reasons but one thing I liked as a buyer was how easy this sort of question was to resolve - just go to post 5 in the big DVC info thread:

https://www.disboards.com/threads/dvc-resource-center-updated-july-2017.3514540/

But for most timeshares, it takes a bit more work...