We live close to where this timeshare is being built (about 15 min.). Our neighbors went to a presentation. Naturally, I had counseled them to not buy a timeshare without checking me first. So they're at the presentation and they call me for advice--I didn't know they were going in advance. Anyway, when they called, I wasn't home, but my husband let me know. So I called them back and asked them what they'd done. They had purchased a gold one bedroom (3400 points). Now, I'm not a Hilton expert, but I've read the advice article and followed TUG for awhile so I think I have a basic understanding of the system. Anyway, I showed them that they could buy resale and spend much less.
However, as I talked with them, I realized one of the things that they were really interested in was the day use at the resort's pool, tennis courts, etc. (this perk is listed in the documents they signed). So I thought maybe for them buying from the developer made sense. I went over the point chart with them and told them that for the same m.f. they could get more points and guarantee a one bedroom in any season if they had bought platinum, rather than gold. So the next day, they went back and upgraded to platinum (4800 points).
This may be one of the few times that a Tugger actually recommended spending more with the developer! On the other hand, this is a purchase they can afford and it will not be developer financed, so I think in this case it made sense. I know I can say that they understood the Hilton system a lot better after I talked with them. I'm pleased to hear that others think this will be a great resort--I would hate to have steered them wrong. I did let them know that most Hilton owners on TUG seem to be very satisfied.
Glorian