SFX trade power issues

[T_R_Oglodyte]

A person should be able to complain about a timeshare exchange company without a backlash. We all complain about RCI, but if we say anything about SFX, not only do you have to worry about having your exchange request being put in the back of the line for posting your disappointments in an open forum, but you have current happy members that act like you are nuts because you aren't happy.

I agree, but as soon as a person posts specific details of what did or did not happen then that person has opened the door for a detailed rebuttal by the other party.

If one then chooses to characterize that as backlash, well .....

 

[rickandcindy23]

I agree, but as soon as a person posts specific details of what did or did not happen then that person has opened the door for a detailed rebuttal by the other party.

If one then chooses to characterize that as backlash, well .....

Steve, I don't think of the word backlash as being all that negative.

I know that most people have great experiences to report on SFX, and those who don't tend to not say much. Good experiences are wonderful to share, but there is bad with the good, and if SFX posted specifics of my transactions, it would seem like I am a very difficult person, yet I am not.

 

[T_R_Oglodyte]

A person should be able to complain about a timeshare exchange company without a backlash.

Steve, I don't think of the word backlash as being all that negative.

If backlash isn't all that negative, why are you concerned about getting "backlash" after making a complaint?

 

[John Cummings]

As the OP on that very painful thread, I must confess that I still don't phone SFX , all transactions have been completed through e-mails !
I have no wish to re-open old wounds, so will not comment further on the thread.
Suffice it to say that I had a remaining deposit with SFX , I deposited another unit to keep that deposit alive, and have since been very pleased with their service.

What you need to do is get the extensions of the agents you want to contact. That gets you past the filter. I deal regularly with a couple of them and dial their extensions directly. Often they are on the phone in which case I leave a message and they always call me back within 24 hours.

I don't know why people keep beating the same old dead horse. SFX's business model is not the same as others. This has been explained by Mark over and over. SFX does not rely strictly on deposits to acquire requested weeks. They have various sources they use. Many of the weeks I have gotten from SFX came from RCI and other sources. They don't carry much inventory and don't want to because they don't want to get stuck with unused weeks. What ones they do not get exchanges for go on their sell off lists. Because they deal with high quality resorts with a high demand, the deposited weeks are typically snapped up immediately. Their business model works very well for me and many others. I don't care how they get the weeks that I request as long as it works and it always has. If it doesn't work for others then they should not use SFX. It is as simple as that. Why do some people complain that they don't work like RCI or others? The fact of the matter is that they don't and if one cannot accept that then they should find some other exchange company. RCI and II did not work for me which is why I switched to SFX 12 years ago. I am not going to complain about how RCI and II work because I don't use them anymore so it doesn't matter to me.

 

[bnoble]

I don't know why people keep beating the same old dead horse.

I find the threads quite informative---it helps me understand for what (and whom) SFX works, and for what (and whom) it will not. After all, that's what TUG is all about.

Not everyone will agree with your assessment. That doesn't mean they should stop posting.

 

[John Cummings]

I find the threads quite informative---it helps me understand for what (and whom) SFX works, and for what (and whom) it will not. After all, that's what TUG is all about.

Not everyone will agree with your assessment. That doesn't mean they should stop posting.

I am not talking about the thread. I am talking about people who repeatedly state that SFX does not work like RCI and others. This is obvious and their business model is on their web site. If you go back through this thread, you will see many references to this when it has already been stated that they don't work the same.

 

[rickandcindy23]

A person should be able to complain about a timeshare exchange company without a backlash. We all complain about RCI, but if we say anything about SFX, not only do you have to worry about having your exchange request being put in the back of the line for posting your disappointments in an open forum, but you have current happy members that act like you are nuts because you aren't happy.

I am still a skeptical customer, not yet unhappy, just always hoping for the best possible exchanges for my prime summer Hawaii weeks. I know my deposited 2009 week was deposited late (I didn't get any bonuses), but they had need of that week, according to Elena, who accepted the deposit. The date was 8/1. I added a guest certificate within a few days of the deposit, so I know they used that week for a successful exchange. My 2008 week was deposited WAY in advance, like 9 months, and it was a July 4th week. I did get Powell Place for March, and that is our 37th anniversary. I think we will enjoy the area, plus we have relatives in and near SF, and we happen to have need to visit a few while we are there. Not exciting for me, but Rick is thrilled.

I broadened my search last night specifically for the purpose of getting a 2 bedroom unit in exchange for my deposited 2 bedroom, and to get Hawaii for 2011. I will consider depositing another week this fall sometime, before the deposit bonuses are done. I won't deposit Hawaii, because it seems to be hard to get Hawaii back.

This is what I posted, Steve, and the red highlights prove that I am not trying to be unreasonable in my requests. I am not necessarily worried about a backlash toward me; contrarily, I am hoping to enlighten others as to the process and expectations. I also informed others of my email and subsequent phone call from SFX after posting, and I know they are watching.

Maybe I will report a good result of my request, but once again, and I will admit, my search criteria is very limited, my request was a little over six months out (I have been told it is unlikely going to happen), which isn't enough time to have high expectations. I have been completely honest here, and I dare any SFX employee to challenge what I have posted.

People use alternate exchange companies because they are/ were disappointed at RCI and II. I am not necessarily all that disappointed in either. That is why Rick thought I was nuts for joining SFX. I had the impression from watching other posters that SFX was superior to the other alternates. My assumptions have not proven accurate, so far. I am still fairly neutral on SFX, but I guarantee that at the end of five years, I will know whether they are worthy of the money it costs to be a member.

I am very impressed with Hawaiian Timeshare Exchange, Trading Places, and Trading Places Maui. My best exchanges are always Hawaii and those companies have the inventory I want.

I don't have to worry about a backlash at all. If SFX doesn't come through with any of my requests over the next five years, entered six months to 18 months in advance of my needs, I will post more strongly against them on TUG. Assume what you will about that statement. They can post against me as they please, because I have been 100% honest here. The SFX poster that challenges what I say needs to identify him/herself as such.

 

[bellesgirl]

What you need to do is get the extensions of the agents you want to contact. That gets you past the filter. I deal regularly with a couple of them and dial their extensions directly. Often they are on the phone in which case I leave a message and they always call me back within 24 hours.

.... If it doesn't work for others then they should not use SFX. It is as simple as that. Why do some people complain that they don't work like RCI or others? The fact of the matter is that they don't and if one cannot accept that then they should find some other exchange company. RCI and II did not work for me which is why I switched to SFX 12 years ago. I am not going to complain about how RCI and II work because I don't use them anymore so it doesn't matter to me.

You have basically validated what I said. The most important thing at SFX is your relationship with the guides.

And as far as comparing them to other companies, how are we supposed to know if SFX will work for us if we don't know the pros and cons? That's what this forum is for... sharing our experiences.

 

[bnoble]

Furthermore, the "whys" SFX is different from, say, RCI, might matter to some.

I understand that you don't feel the objections are relevant, or news, but having never used SFX before, I'm always interested in hearing about individuals' experiences with them.

 

[happymum]

You have basically validated what I said. The most important thing at SFX is your relationship with the guides.

I also believe this to be true, but that is difficult when you are strongly discouraged from phoning.

 

[bellesgirl]

When I used SFX, I found emailing worked well, esp. with Scarlet.

 

[rickandcindy23]

When I used SFX, I found emailing worked well, esp. with Scarlet.

That's a name I may use! I have talked to Elena, both at the time of my last deposit, and to talk about my request, and she was very nice.

 

[John Cummings]

Furthermore, the "whys" SFX is different from, say, RCI, might matter to some.

I understand that you don't feel the objections are relevant, or news, but having never used SFX before, I'm always interested in hearing about individuals' experiences with them.

The "whys" they are different is meaningless. They are different because they chose a different business model. RCI is different from II etc. Why they are different is not important. What is important is that you know WHAT the differences are. I have no problem with people's objections at all. That is their perogative. What I have trouble understanding is why some people keep repeating the same thing over and over.

In any event, it is what it is. I have said my piece on this thread and will let it go.

 

[DeniseM]

John - I think it gets repeated, because new members come to TUG and ask, and those of us who have been around awhile, respond.

 

[John Cummings]

John - I think it gets repeated, because new members come to TUG and ask, and those of us who have been around awhile, respond.

I understand that when it is in different threads and new members ask questions etc.. I am talking about some people, who are not new members, repeating their same objections over and over within this thread and others. It doesn't bother me as none of this stuff does. I am just somewhat amazed and amused by it.

 

[LarryEdmonton]

I am very happy with SFX

In 3 weeks, we leave for a 3 week Cruise/London holiday and for our week in London - we have SLOAN GARDENS - through SFX.

The last reviewer gave it a 10 plus rating. And I have had great success with San Diego area, Hawaii and San Fran.

So from me a huge Thumbs Up!

 

[AKE]

I have used SFX for many years and NEVER found them to be abrupt or rude on the phone. As well, emails are answered politely and promptly. I think that the lack of fulfilling some trade requests is inventory related as for several years I was able to get a eastern ski week but have had no luck lately. I called SFX to find out what why and according to them, they don't get many deposits where I am looking (and as they are California-based, ski weeks in Vermont probably aren't that common). At the same time I got a fantastic trade into Hawaii last week and have been to MC in NYC several times, etc. so no complaints here. Acording to my experience, the request has to be in early as they match up with the deposits very quickly.

 

[esk444]

I understand that when it is in different threads and new members ask questions etc.. I am talking about some people, who are not new members, repeating their same objections over and over within this thread and others. It doesn't bother me as none of this stuff does. I am just somewhat amazed and amused by it.

If you look at recent SFX threads, this is the pattern:

1) Newbie asks for experience.
2) 4 or 5 members post how wonderful they are.

However, if you read ALL the threads on SFX, it's much more nuanced and quite honestly breaks toward more negative than positive.

So if the people who are "repeating their same objections over and over" don't speak up, it's not a balanced discussion. So the SFX cheerleaders are allowed to post positive experiences, and those with complaints are supposed to be silent?

I wouldn't bother with posting if the cheerleaders would post something like "I really had terrific experiences with SFX, but not everyone has. Make sure you do some searches on older SFX threads."

But they don't. Not that I expect them to, but you if don't you shouldn't expect those with complaints to remain silent. They are only trying to be helpful and provide more information to members and guests here to make an informed decision.

 

[John Cummings]

So if the people who are "repeating their same objections over and over" don't speak up, it's not a balanced discussion. So the SFX cheerleaders are allowed to post positive experiences, and those with complaints are supposed to be silent?

I wouldn't bother with posting if the cheerleaders would post something like "I really had terrific experiences with SFX, but not everyone has. Make sure you do some searches on older SFX threads."

But they don't. Not that I expect them to, but you if don't you shouldn't expect those with complaints to remain silent. They are only trying to be helpful and provide more information to members and guests here to make an informed decision.

You are missing my point. I will repeat it and try to word it so you understand. I have no problem with people complaining about SFX or anything else for that matter. I encourage you to post to your heart's content. I am referring to a few complainers that repeatedly post the same complaint in the same thread over and over. This is after it has been discussed in the same thread. It is like the complainer never read any of the other posts and just repeated the same thing. Some of these people also make accusations or statements that are totally false. As I said, it doesn't bother me at all. I am just amused by it all.

I post only my own experiences with using SFX for the past 12 years. I do this just to provide info and people can take it anyway they like. It doesn't matter to me. Let others post whatever they want. I really don't care what anybody thinks about SFX. RCI, II or whatever. If it works for me then I am happy. If it doesn't work then I try something else. If SFX stops working for me then I will try something different. I did this with RCI when I canceled my membership and I also did it with II after I let my membership expire.

In any event, this isn't adding any meaningful content to this discussion so I will leave this thread alone unless somebody asks a specific question.

 

[esk444]

You are missing my point. I will repeat it and try to word it so you understand.

Thanks for the repeating your post in language that I can understand. I always had trouble with that English thing.

The only posts I see repeated over and over are when posters are challenged by you and others and those posters are trying to repeat their remarks in language YOU can understand.

As for any Newbies, please search the archives if you want balanced information about SFX. Obviously, people with less than rosy views towards SFX aren't likely to repeat complaints if they have to go through this gauntlet and intimidation by SFX and their supporters.

I know I won't, so go ahead and have the last word.

 

[rickandcindy23]

You just have to figure out WHY some people are so happy, and I believe I figured it out. Deposit 1 bedrooms, get the free upgrades (when available) with the platinum membership. This is the KEY to being happy with SFX.

As for SFX, I think a lesson has been learned for me. I keep depositing 2 bedroom Gold Crown units on Hawaii (two prime summer weeks), then I expect an equal exchange. I get a 1 bedroom back, but I get no "refund" when I downgrade my exchange.

I will no longer deposit a 2 bedroom, I will deposit only 1 bedrooms. It is apparent to me that this is the way to exploit their system. If I had deposited a 1 bedroom week at Sheraton Desert Oasis, with MF's of $450 or so, then I would feel good about my bargain exchange to SF, one bedroom. As it is, I felt I had to ask for something they could give me, when Hawaii 2 bedrooms were not forthcoming.

My two-bedroom Kona Hawaiian Village costs me more like $1,100 in MF's to deposit well ahead, PLUS Wyndham makes me pay for a guest certificate when I use SFX. My fees are half of that when I deposit at 60 days or less, plus the guest fee Wyndham charges. So I won't be as disappointed with our next exchange, because it costs a little more than half of what the original one costs.

It would be a bargain for us to upgrade our SDO deposit to a 2 bedroom, if one came available. Oh, wait a minute, a 2 bedroom would be free for us, since we are Platinum. What a waste to deposit a 2 bedroom. Maybe that is why so many people are very happy, while the rest of us who provide those 2 bedrooms are unhappy. I don't know. :rofl:

 

[happymum]

You are missing my point. I will repeat it and try to word it so you understand. I have no problem with people complaining about SFX or anything else for that matter. I encourage you to post to your heart's content. I am referring to a few complainers that repeatedly post the same complaint in the same thread over and over. This is after it has been discussed in the same thread. It is like the complainer never read any of the other posts and just repeated the same thing. Some of these people also make accusations or statements that are totally false. As I said, it doesn't bother me at all. I am just amused by it all.

I post only my own experiences with using SFX for the past 12 years. I do this just to provide info and people can take it anyway they like. It doesn't matter to me. Let others post whatever they want. I really don't care what anybody thinks about SFX. RCI, II or whatever. If it works for me then I am happy. If it doesn't work then I try something else. If SFX stops working for me then I will try something different. I did this with RCI when I canceled my membership and I also did it with II after I let my membership expire.

In any event, this isn't adding any meaningful content to this discussion so I will leave this thread alone unless somebody asks a specific question.

Thanks for your input. It's so helpful to know what you think.

 

[John Cummings]

Thanks for your input. It's so helpful to know what you think.

Well thank you. I am glad that you enjoyed it.

 

[AKE]

I think that people are also happy with SFX because they don`t have any inferior resorts in their inventory. As such, though their inventory is not as big as RCI or II, what they have in their is top notch so any trade is good, and yes, being able to upgrade from a one to a two bedroom without cost (if one is available) is an added bonus. I should note that with RCI there is no difference in trading power for me with a 1 versus a 2 bedroom resort anymore - strange!

 

[John Cummings]

I think that people are also happy with SFX because they don`t have any inferior resorts in their inventory. As such, though their inventory is not as big as RCI or II, what they have in their is top notch so any trade is good, and yes, being able to upgrade from a one to a two bedroom without cost (if one is available) is an added bonus. I should note that with RCI there is no difference in trading power for me with a 1 versus a 2 bedroom resort anymore - strange!

One of the other benefits important to us is the ability to go to the same resort or area as often as you want. You don't have the 1 in 4/5 years restrictions common at RCI. We have exchanged into the Grand Mayans 5 times in the past 5 years and exchanged into the HGVC/Flamingo 4 times in one year. In both cases RCI would not allow that. The Grand Mayans are restricted to once every 5 years, and HGVC to once every 4 with RCI.