Elara Vegas 4 bedroom

[Sandy VDH]

@Sandy VDH do you know if all the the 1BD and 1BP at the Elara have a separate soaking tub? I've seen a Jr. suite on YouTube with a soaking tub, but wasn't sure if it's limited to certain Jr. suite room codes.

Well I didn't see every Jr Suite, but I stayed in a collection of 1 and 2 BR units and the Jr Suite attached to the 2 BR corner unit and they all have separate large tubs. I had heard that they were taking out the jacuzzi versions and putting in some big more modern tubs in the new PREMIUM style units. Now I have only stayed in HGVC and don't know if the decor and furnishing are the same between the two brands.

 

[GT75]

Honestly, I wouldn't touch a Westgate Elara deed as others have stated. But it looks like the OP is doing his/her due diligence.

 

[z28plus]

Yes, definitely trying to get this 100% figured out before I decide what to do. It is super intriguing though to get a four bedroom in this building regardless of the floor. Especially if I can have it for cheap. Like I said in the beginning I don’t plan to exchange it or use it for points. I just expect to use it. And considering it’s every other year that’s even better for me. Maybe I missing something but besides not being able to exchange it for points etc. I don’t really see a downside and not owning it especially if I just plan to use it. Now if I want to rent it out or other things like that then that could be where the trouble is.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[tschwa2]

It may be a moot point depending on the cost. Westgate and HGVC both have ROFR over westgate units and I don't think they will let it go for pennies.

The other big flag from Westgate (and I am not sure this applies to Elara but I would make sure to confirm if you are proceeding) is that they charge $150 for retail owners (per lock off when used) and either $300 or $399 for resale owners. This means that although a 4 BR lock off may break into 4 separate units, if you do that, they charge for 3 lock off fees. If you intend to use it as the full 4 BR every year it won't be an issue.

 

[T-Dot-Traveller]

Hi @z28plus @Sandy VDH @GT75 @dayooper @tschwa2 @alwysonvac

Here is a link to a thread from Jan 2020 that has positive usage comments from owners of units deeded as W. Planet Hollywood
and the booking access through the resort manager HGVC ( and property owner HGVC)

Westgate Planet Hollywood (Elara HGVC)

Any advice on how to get rid of a TS with two managing entities. Westgate deed but HGVC maintenance fees

tugbbs.com

 

[T-Dot-Traveller]

Hi @z28plus @Sandy VDH @GT75 @dayooper @tschwa2 @alwysonvac

Here is a link to a thread on W. Planet Hollywood
within it is the information on recent rental restrictions on these deeds ( post # 8 - April 2021)

It appears that the board of directors ( HGVC - ? as manager / owner) made this operational change in 2020

Westgate Planet Hollywood

Originally purchased Westgate planet Hollywood Vegas 2008 this was sold to HVC 201- w no points attached. Spent hours with both to see where I fit in. Neither no points no access to HVC, so now we are biting the bullet doing deed in lue stopping this nonsense once and for all. I can’t give this...

tugbbs.com

 

[alwysonvac]

Hi @z28plus @Sandy VDH @GT75 @dayooper @tschwa2 @alwysonvac

Here is a link to a thread on W. Planet Hollywood.
within it is the information on recent rental restrictions on these deeds ( post # 8 - April 2021)

It appears that the board of directors ( HGVC - ? as manager / owner) made this operational change in 2020

Westgate Planet Hollywood

Originally purchased Westgate planet Hollywood Vegas 2008 this was sold to HVC 201- w no points attached. Spent hours with both to see where I fit in. Neither no points no access to HVC, so now we are biting the bullet doing deed in lue stopping this nonsense once and for all. I can’t give this...

tugbbs.com

Thanks for sharing that thread .

I’ll try to remember that thread too when Elara Westgate comes up again.

 

[GT75]

@alwysonvac, you will remember this excellent Elara Westgate information, but I won't be able to find it. So, I added it also to one of our information Stickies. Thanks also @T-Dot-Traveller

Hilton Grand Vacations Club Timeshare advice article links and information for owners

Hilton - Hilton Grand Vacations Club HGVC FAQ: HGVC Introduction, primer and FAQ - Updated 2018 Comparison chart of the major Timeshare point systems: Link to Comparison Official HGVC Membership guide: Link to guide HGVC basic point chart for the majority of the resorts: Link to guide...

tugbbs.com

 

[dayooper]

Hi @z28plus @Sandy VDH @GT75 @dayooper @tschwa2 @alwysonvac

Here is a link to a thread from Jan 2020 that has positive usage comments from owners of units deeded as W. Planet Hollywood
and the booking access through the resort manager HGVC ( and property owner HGVC)

Westgate Planet Hollywood (Elara HGVC)

Any advice on how to get rid of a TS with two managing entities. Westgate deed but HGVC maintenance fees

tugbbs.com

From the thread listed

Based on what I researched, prior to my purchase:

• Westgate as a company has a bad overall rep.
• Westgate restricts resale buyers on their internal exchange system. ( I have not contacted Westgate to do ask about internal exchange, so I can not confirm restrictions)
• "Westgate Elara units owners are treated differently" - I have been treated great by HGVC, we even have a direct number for reservations and questions, and HGVC reps are very knowledgeable on our Westgate units. Furthermore, I searched old Elara posts, and contacted a couple of current owners here in TUG, nothing negative was said to me, and made my buying decision easier.
• "Westgate Elara units are different than HGVC units". They are all the same units. What I have not figured out is why they have so many different 1 bedroom units. I called to book a busy week and my 1b deeded unit type was not available, so they book me on another 1b grand unit. Rep said that my 1b unit has a connecting door to a studio unit (lock off), so they book me on a 1b with no connecting door. Rep also said that units are assigned on first come first serve, and that I can call a couple of week prior to check-in to request a specific unit or side of the building.

So there is a lot of misinformation around that makes these units worth very little. I love to visit Vegas, and being so close to the strip, and on the mall is a good as it could get for a resort unit. The association has kept the units great, and everyone that visits here loves it. Here are my positives of a Westgate Elara unit .

• No club membership fees - HGVC club fees keep increasing yearly, so if you just want to book Elara, this is a better deal.
• HGVC 1B Grand or Grand plus worth 7k-7.8k HGVC Points sell for well over 7k upfront resale. This is a great unit for the club based on point/MFs, but is it really worth for booking at Elara when you can get most of the same benefits at Elara for a $150 upfront cost on a Westgate unit?
• Most Elara units float 1-52, this gives great flexibility. Some are fixed week 52 and are automatically booked for that week.
• At 9 month prior to checkin, you can split your Westgate Elara week into 3 nights any day of the week check in, and 4 nights SAT-TUE check in. First split reservation is free, second is $59. (HGVC member would pay reservation fee for each booking)
• Lock-offs units also split into studio and 1b reservations.
• If your Westgate Elara unit type is unavailable, you can book smaller unit type, or book fewer nights based on availability.
• If you own EOY, HGVC allows you to book a unit on the opposite year if there is availability.

So there is a lot of positives on these units. The flexibility is amazing in my opinion. There are also deeded units for 3 night (FRI-SUN check in at 12 moth) and 4 nights (MON only check in at 12 month).

Tony

This post from the thread @T-Dot-Traveller linked is really helpful. Lot's of info listed.

 

[GT75]

I also added it to our HGVC Detailed Resort & Affiliated Information Sticky for Elara (at the bottom)

 

[dayooper]

It may be a moot point depending on the cost. Westgate and HGVC both have ROFR over westgate units and I don't think they will let it go for pennies.

The other big flag from Westgate (and I am not sure this applies to Elara but I would make sure to confirm if you are proceeding) is that they charge $150 for retail owners (per lock off when used) and either $300 or $399 for resale owners. This means that although a 4 BR lock off may break into 4 separate units, if you do that, they charge for 3 lock off fees. If you intend to use it as the full 4 BR every year it won't be an issue.

Maybe in normal times, but right now HGVC isn't exercising ROFR. Even before the pandemic, they weren't exercising at Elara anyway. That is a huge resort with 1500 units. I know technically it's 3 units (2 bedroom, 1 bedroom and a studio), but now is the time to try. As far as the resale restrictions go, it looks like Westgate doesn't have anything to do with the reservations. If HGVC is charging it's $59 fee for a 2nd lockoff. Seems like they couldn't do that unless they control the reservations.

 

[tony_i]

Yes, definitely trying to get this 100% figured out before I decide what to do. It is super intriguing though to get a four bedroom in this building regardless of the floor. Especially if I can have it for cheap. Like I said in the beginning I don’t plan to exchange it or use it for points. I just expect to use it. And considering it’s every other year that’s even better for me. Maybe I missing something but besides not being able to exchange it for points etc. I don’t really see a downside and not owning it especially if I just plan to use it. Now if I want to rent it out or other things like that then that could be where the trouble is.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I have not read through all the responses here, but HGVC updated Westgate units reservation rules 3 days ago. They raised $5 across the board on reservations, re-bookings, slits, and lock-off splits. The positive things is that they added a couple of items that were not on the original rules.

1. "Biennial Use in Off Years" - This has been offered to me in the past, so it is nice that they added the wording to the rules. Basically you are able to use your EOY unit in the off year, it is kind of like borrowing usage if there is availability, any time.
2. "Preferred Rental Reservations" - This is the option to book any available unit 30 days out for cash. The prices are very similar to the maintenance fees rate so it is be a good option to have. There is tax added, but no resort or any other fee, and can rent any unit (4 bedroom included).

As I have posted before, I still think these Elara deeds are way underrated and have a bad rep. They are flexible and have so many booking options. Now, these definitely work best for someone just wanting to use them at the Elara, and now with the preferred rental reservations program, I can se myself using the Elara more with no club fees!

If you were to buy this 4 bedroom EOY you will have many options, including the option of using part of it every year with splitting and "borrowing".

What you are missing is the burden of having to pay MFs for this 4B unit if you are not completely sure you will be using them fully yourself on the best weeks. Consider the rental restrictions implemented by the board, so that you do not count on that as an option every usage year, the $64 for each slip reservation (first one is included in the MFs), and eventually getting rid of it. Also consider hotel prices for comparison. I have seen the Elara on booking sites for below MFs, and many other great strip hotels for less than the MFs. So would splitting the unit for a reservation cost more than staying at Venetian or Caesar's? it could as there are many weeks in Vegas were great hotels are cheap. (11/21-24 - all fees included - MGM Grand for $103 night, $85 tropicana, $154 Caesar's, $106 PH).

I like Vegas for 3-4 nights at a time, 1-3 times per year at the most, and might skip a year. Since the Elara has so much inventory available (through the above rental program, II, and RCI), I would suggest someone wanting these types of deed (or if I had to redo it again) to buy an EOY studio full week. The studio MFs are a little more than my partial 4 night 1B Grand ($640 vs $560?), but gives the option to also trade it on II, while at the same time giving the split & "borrowing" on the best dates/week, and preferred rental reservation options. The studios compares to a hotel room, so you are giving a lot in term of room size and that full kitchen, but I think that by having that rental program is just perfect as you can book any size unit, and the 30 days out is not an issue for me, as that is how I usually plan for Vegas.

BTW, there is also a Westgate internal exchange, but I have not done that.

Good luck!

 

[alwysonvac]

I also added it to our HGVC Detailed Resort & Affiliated Information Sticky for Elara (at the bottom)

In the resort sticky thread can you add a note that this is a mixed property of HGVC and Westgate deeds.
Westgate deeds are not part of HGVC. For, Westgate Elara owners, Elara access is defined by their HOA. All other transactions are handled by Westgate.

Please provide a link to this entire thread so they’re aware of both the PROs and CONs.
Ideally they should buy for exclusive use at their home resort (not for anything that requires Westgate‘s higher resale transaction fees)

This has issue has come up in another thread and I thought that I would take the points of how Westgate eviscerates the rights of buyers of Westgate Properties on resale.

Fees
Westgate has a three tier fee system. One for Developer Purchased Online(Retail), Developer Purchased Agent(Retail) and One for Non Developer Purchased (Resale).
For the most part, Online and Agent assisted transactions are the same cost.

2018-2019 Fees:
View attachment 9675
As you can see, there is a hefty increase of fees to a resale buyer!

Seasons
If you are considering buying a fixed or floating Westgate Week, keep in mind the Season. This is very important.

In general, there are three Seasons with the exception of Park City Resort & Spa and Myrtle Beach (Building 2000).

These Seasons are:

• Value
• All
• Fixed Event

For Park City Resort & Spa the Seasons are:

• Value
• All
• Fixed Event
• Ski

For Myrtle Beach (Building 2000) the Seasons are:

• Value
• Select
• All
• Fixed Event

For resale owner it is important to remember that you are locked into your Season (or lesser)!
Retail owners can pay to upgrade seasons:
View attachment 9676
Note that resale (Non-Developer Sold Timeshare Interests) has NO ability for a Seasonal Upgrade.

Myrtle Beach Unit Upgrades
With Myrtle Beach you have the ability to upgrade your unit, if you are a retail owner:
View attachment 9677
Again note: This option is not available to the resale buyer.

Park City Resort & Spa upgrades
As with Myrtle Beach, during ski season, there are premium upcharges for room upgrades:
View attachment 9678
As with the other upgrades, these are not available to resale owners.

Conclusion
The upshot of purchasing Westgate resale is to make sure you have the size, location and season you want because you will most likely not be able to upgrade as retail (Developer) purchasers can. Confirm that Westgate will not downgrade the Season of a floating week when they do the transfer.

 

[T-Dot-Traveller]

Hi @GT75 @alwysonvac @tony_i @dayooper @z28plus & other readers.

According to the Wikipedia article on Elera :
12,000+ deeded ownerships were sold by Westgate for this resort.

When it opened 200 of the 1201 units were dedicated to timeshare usage.
200 x 52 = 10,400 / and add some EOY's.

The balance of the rooms were for hotel rentals through Planet Hollywood
Robert Earl (Planet Hollywood) and David Siegel (Westgate) - partnered on the original joint venture that opened in Dec.2009

 

[z28plus]

So the Doc Link that @alwysonvac Listed above.....

It Still doesn't list a 4 Bedroom Grand in the price sheet at the bottom. Its lists 4 bedroom and 4 bedroom plus. So which one of those is considered the grand?

 

[Sandy VDH]

So the Doc Link that @alwysonvac Listed above.....

It Still doesn't list a 4 Bedroom Grand in the price sheet at the bottom. Its lists 4 bedroom and 4 bedroom plus. So which one of those is considered the grand?

As I said before HGVC doesn't have a 4 BR Grand in their vocabulary. Only a 4 BR and a 4 BR PLUS. I would assume the 4 BR is what you have, I would NOT assume you have a PLUS unit. All the other units have Grand in their titles except the studios, Jr Suites and 2 BR Corner units that are the anchor units for the 3/4 BR condo.

It would appear that the Grand titles are a left over from Westgate Days.

 

[alwysonvac]

So the Doc Link that @alwysonvac Listed above.....

It Still doesn't list a 4 Bedroom Grand in the price sheet at the bottom. Its lists 4 bedroom and 4 bedroom plus. So which one of those is considered the grand?

I suggest asking the seller.
Tell the seller you don’t see a 4 Bedroom Grand description on the HGVC or Hilton website.

• https://club.hiltongrandvacations.com/en/resort/nevada/elara-a-hilton-grand-vacations-club/. (Just scroll down for the HGVC accommodation description ).
• https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/lascsgv-elara-by-hilton-grand-vacations-center-strip/rooms/ (Click on SUITES to see HGVC accommodation description ).

I also found some older TUG threads but found nothing referring to 4 Bedroom Grand.

Elara Room Types

Never been to Elara, but in January I'm going to a function held at Aria, which makes Elara very convenient. There are so many options at Elara, it's hard to know what to pick. It will just be me (DW isn't tagging along on this one), so I'm thinking a studio is sufficient. But I see: studio...

tugbbs.com

Elara Floor Plans for Corner and 3-4BR units?

I am considering a stay in Vegas later this year with a large group of friends and would like to stay at Elara. Most resorts at the HGVC website show floorplans for each unit type, but not for Elara. The old Westgate website only shows the standard 1BR and 2BR units, not any of the corner...

tugbbs.com

 

[z28plus]

I did mention it to the seller. They have no clue, just what's on the estoppel

 

[alwysonvac]

I did mention it to the seller. They have no clue, just what's on the estoppel

Ok, I thought of another Google search using the term “LV Tower 52 Condominium Owners Association, Inc.”.
And I was able to locate an old post regarding archived Westgate documents (see post below).

I’ve attached the 28 page Westgate Timeshare Declaration document
- Page 5 has the unit types
- Pages 22 to 28 has the unit types by units numbers (which I’m assuming is the floor number + location).

NOTE: For HGVC, the difference between the two types of 4 bedrooms seems to be the floor numbers which is consistent with other HGVC properties.

• All HGVC Standard units are located on floors 4-39.
• All HGVC Plus units are located on floors 50-56
• NOTE: Elara does not have the following floors: 13, 40-49. However the Westgate document has unit numbers from 4xx to 46xx so I’m assuming the Westgate 4 bedroom Grand units could be assigned to any floor.

FROM PAGE 5 of the Westgate Timeshare Declaration document (changed format slightly to make it clearer)

ARTICLE III​

DESCRIPTION OF IMPROVEMENTS AND TIMESHARING PLAN​

​

A. Description of Project; Combined Units; Allocation of Maintenance Fees.​

The Project initially consists of one (1) building containing five hundred eighty-seven (587) Timeshare Units, together with certain Common Elements. The Units and Unit Types are identified on Exhibit "A" attached hereto. ​

​

There are five (5) types of Units: ​

1. Studio Standard,
2. One Bedroom Standard,
3. One Bedroom Deluxe,
4. One Bedroom Grand and
5. Two Bedroom Premium.

In addition, in some cases, ​

• the One Bedroom Grand and Studio Standard can be combined as a Two Bedroom Deluxe;
• the Two Bedroom Premium, One Bedroom Standard and Studio Standard can be combined as a Four Bedroom Grand.
• The Two Bedroom Deluxe and Four Bedroom Grand can be lockouts, The Board of Directors has the right to allocate costs among the different types of Unit

If you’re unable to locate a TUG Westgate Elara owner, perhaps try contacting the HOA.

New HOA website - https://club.hiltongrandvacations.com/en/resort/nevada/elara-a-hilton-grand-vacations-club/hoa (NOTE: There’s a link to a March 2015 revised reservation rules)​

​

Previous HOA website - https://web.archive.org/web/20180329120954/http://www.lvtower52association.com/​

- Governing Docs (link)​

- HOA Updates (link)​

- Financial Info (link)​

​

Background
“In November 2011, LV Tower 52, LLC ("LV Tower") acquired a controlling interest in Planet Hollywood Towers by Westgate and appointed Hilton Grand Vacations to rebrand the property and oversee the resort's condominium association, maintenance and real estate tax collections, timeshare interval reservations and on-site resort maintenance and resort operations. Please be aware that the name of resort itself is now Elara, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club.

As part of the transition to the new developer, the name of the timeshare association has been changed to LV Tower 52 Condominium Owners Association, Inc. (previously Planet Hollywood Towers by Westgate Condominium Owners Association, Inc.).”