Is it safe to sell a timeshare to someone in China?

[lizfox]

I just sold a timeshare via auction to someone who lives in China. They listed a San Diego phone number for their contact information with the auction site, but then they gave me an address and phone number in China.

Also, I'm not even posiitve if some of the resorts will complete a resort transfer if the individual lives in China. The resorts are so concerned about people not paying the maintenance fees these days, I'm wondering if this will be an issue.

Has anyone ever sold a timeshare to someone who lives in China that can give me some input on this?

 

[DonM]

...
Also, I'm not even posiitve if some of the resorts will complete a resort transfer if the individual lives in China...

Except for a right of first refusal (and then the resort management would have to buy it)- How can a resort prevent you from selling your deeded timeshare to anyone???

 

[aliikai2]

Not China

But I sold a Sheraton to someone in Luxenburg, He paid me via Paypal and then I let Tia at Timeshare Transfers do the transfer. I wouldn't be worried, as long as you get paid the correct amount .

Greg

I just sold a timeshare via auction to someone who lives in China. They listed a San Diego phone number for their contact information with the auction site, but then they gave me an address and phone number in China.

Also, I'm not even posiitve if some of the resorts will complete a resort transfer if the individual lives in China. The resorts are so concerned about people not paying the maintenance fees these days, I'm wondering if this will be an issue.

Has anyone ever sold a timeshare to someone who lives in China that can give me some input on this?

 

[LisaH]

Lots of Chinese (especially in Ca) who used to work in US are now back in China because of the fast growing economy there. I would not be too concerned if they pay you on time.

 

[richardm]

Liz,

There are a few issues that you will want to be aware of, as the cultural differences in some areas of China can make for an unusual transaction (from the American point of view at least)..

If a notary public will be required, find out if that is even possible before you get too far into things.. Often, it is not since they are the buyer- but if a buyer notary is needed this can be a big issue to try and overcome.

Finally, you'll have to tread gingerly- but be very careful about who you speak with about the purchase. In some regions, it is considered to be socially taboo for a woman to own or even talk about a property transaction. You may want to politely ask via email who you and the title company should communicate with during the transaction if a phone call does become necessary!

A few years ago, I had a sale with a young woman who purchased a timeshare while attending an American university, and when she returned home to China decided to liquidate it.. We had a horrible time trying to get seller docs completed as she said her family would have been horrified to learn that she owned real estate. Last year, I had a similar issue with a couple from Saudi Arabia who were trying to sell an Orlando week. When they learned that the resort had placed the wife on the deed- the transaction ended right there.. They wouldn't even return calls or emails after that discovery. It was almost like they simply turned their back on the entire situation.

I wish I was more culturally aware and could provide better guidance, but I hope some of the above helps.

Congrats on the sale by the way!