Exit plan for Worldmark in some time

[ski_sierra]

My question is slightly different than the ones being asked recently.

Currently, WorldMark has value. But with special assessments and mainteinace dues compouding at a much higher rate than inflation, I think in a few years, WorldMark stays won't be valuable like they are today. I think the dues have gone up by aroudn 50% since I purchased WorldMark in 2019. I have certainly got my money's worth.

When I bought WM, they were taking back contracts if you were done with them. But now they are no longer doing that.

I had also read some discussions about resorts in FL, CA, CO; where if you can't find a buyer or the developer won't take it back, you can default without worrying about your credit history.

I'm not even close to retirement, and I may move and buy another house in the future so I want to maintain my credit. I wonder if I should just return the accounts back when they start accepting again. It just seems too risky with the way Wyndham is managing WorldMark.

 

[CO skier]

1) The WorldMark dues are up 36% since 2019 -- a 4.6% annualized rate of increase. This is in line with the inflation of other accommodations. For 20 years, there have been predictions of WorldMark "imploding" due to dues inflation and "credit inflation." WorldMark is still a good deal compared to comparable alternatives, and will likely remain so for the next 20 years. ymmv

2) WorldMark is a club membership. WorldMark just cancels the membership after 3-6 months of non-payment. If there is no loan, it is highly unlikely to affect a credit rating.

3) I recently advertised a WorldMark ownership on TUG for free (the $399 cost of the transfer). I was surprised at the immediate interest and gave away a second ownership as a result. (Downsizing a little after discovering RCI and Interval International cash getaways,)

 

[ChrisandBeth]

I have owned Worldmark since 2009. Two accounts, both resale, totalling 40,000 points. Until recently I have always been in the "to borrow" column, even while using cash options like Monday Madness and Inventory Specials. Yes, fees have gone up, but if you compare them to hotels + restaurants Worldmark units are still both less expensive and more expansive. When I choose to Stateside travel again I will happily provide an exit venue for unwanted accounts.