Newbie but very interested in Tafer/GarzaBlanca

[Pedro1515]

My wife and I just returned from Hotel Mousai yesterday. Since this is our third visit to the property (1 @ GB, 2 @ HM) they allowed us to have an “informational” presentation for 30 minutes. Having rescinded a few years back with HGVC (thanks to TUG) I knew I wasn’t going to bite, but the massage was nice. BTW, it was an hour bc my wife kept asking questions.

The first deal was $137k for 5000 points, Elite membership, Preferred bonus points, back borrowing, RCI membership, Sabio (still unclear as to its purpose). MF $2500.

The second deal was (bc salesman can “bend the rules but not break) $77k for a resale of a members contract who traded their equity for real estate in Cabo. This included 5000 points and maintained Elite status with all of the same perks as above. MF $2300. With the money I have spent on my previous vacations there, they knocked it down to $70,499.

I was seriously considering, until I called my buddy who is a GBRC Elite member (we rent points from him). He said availability has been an issue, even booking 6-9 month out. He said to keep my money and continue to rent from him. However, in the future, we want to go two weeks a year (one with kids, one without). I don’t want to deplete his points/options for his family.

I was looking at resale on SMTN.com and stumbled upon a deal for $25k for enough points for now. RTU for 22 more years. MF less than half of above offers. I haven’t inquired for more info yet. I was looking to gain some more insight first.

My questions include:
With Tafer/GB Residence Club, what is lost with a resale? Do I still get Preferred points?
What tricks do others with this group use to get the weeks they want (how far out do you book)?
Do they treat resale contract people differently?
Are there any hurdles to climb?
My plan is to buy a decent number of points and add to get around 5000. Is there a downside to this other than the money?

That is all I can think of right now, but hope to learn more with contributions to this post. Below is my answers to the Newbie Questions:

1) Is there a vacation destination you wish to visit most of the time or on a regular basis? if so where?

Mexico (Puerto Vallarta)

2) Do you want to visit your home resort at least half the time, or do you want to trade more than half the time?

Yes. We love Hotel Mousai and GB

3) What are your 5 top trade destinations?

Mexico
Hawaii
North Carolina
Florida
Fiji (I know it’s a stretch, but it’s awesome)

4) How many people do you usually travel with - total, including yourself?

At most, 4
Least 2

5) Can you travel any time, or are you locked into the school schedule?

We have two boys ages 3 and 6. We live in the frozen tundra of ND. I’m not worried about them missing school, but prefer during Jan-March.

6) Can you make firm plans 12 or more mos. in advance?

Yes, if need be

7) Can you vacation for a full week at a time?

Yes

8) What level of accommodations do you prefer on a scale of 1 to 5 stars?

5

9) How much can you afford to spend upfront, without financing?

$15k

10) How much can you afford to spend every year for a maintenance fee that will come due right after Christmas, and increase each year?

$2,000

11) Are you a detail oriented planner?

Not really. We love Mousai. We don’t really plan much other than fishing with my buddy.

12) Do you understand that once you buy a timeshare, it may be very difficult to sell or give away, and you are responsible for all fees, until you do?

Yes

Thank you for your time and insights in advance!
Pete

 

[Pedro1515]

(Sorry, forgot) thank you TUG for existing!!!!

 

[TheTimeTraveler]

$137K?

$70K

Really?

Don't buy -- rent instead.






.

 

[Pedro1515]

$137K?

$70K

Really?

Don't buy -- rent instead.






.

I thought I alluded to not being interested in the $137k and $70k deals. My interests and questions were focusing more on the resale offer of $25k. I will continue to rent from my buddy, but want to gain insight for the future if his points are no longer available.

 

[Beach57]

My wife and I just returned from Hotel Mousai yesterday. Since this is our third visit to the property (1 @ GB, 2 @ HM) they allowed us to have an “informational” presentation for 30 minutes. Having rescinded a few years back with HGVC (thanks to TUG) I knew I wasn’t going to bite, but the massage was nice. BTW, it was an hour bc my wife kept asking questions.

The first deal was $137k for 5000 points, Elite membership, Preferred bonus points, back borrowing, RCI membership, Sabio (still unclear as to its purpose). MF $2500.

The second deal was (bc salesman can “bend the rules but not break) $77k for a resale of a members contract who traded their equity for real estate in Cabo. This included 5000 points and maintained Elite status with all of the same perks as above. MF $2300. With the money I have spent on my previous vacations there, they knocked it down to $70,499.

I was seriously considering, until I called my buddy who is a GBRC Elite member (we rent points from him). He said availability has been an issue, even booking 6-9 month out. He said to keep my money and continue to rent from him. However, in the future, we want to go two weeks a year (one with kids, one without). I don’t want to deplete his points/options for his family.

I was looking at resale on SMTN.com and stumbled upon a deal for $25k for enough points for now. RTU for 22 more years. MF less than half of above offers. I haven’t inquired for more info yet. I was looking to gain some more insight first.

My questions include:
With Tafer/GB Residence Club, what is lost with a resale? Do I still get Preferred points?
What tricks do others with this group use to get the weeks they want (how far out do you book)?
Do they treat resale contract people differently?
Are there any hurdles to climb?
My plan is to buy a decent number of points and add to get around 5000. Is there a downside to this other than the money?

That is all I can think of right now, but hope to learn more with contributions to this post. Below is my answers to the Newbie Questions:

1) Is there a vacation destination you wish to visit most of the time or on a regular basis? if so where?

Mexico (Puerto Vallarta)

2) Do you want to visit your home resort at least half the time, or do you want to trade more than half the time?

Yes. We love Hotel Mousai and GB

3) What are your 5 top trade destinations?

Mexico
Hawaii
North Carolina
Florida
Fiji (I know it’s a stretch, but it’s awesome)

4) How many people do you usually travel with - total, including yourself?

At most, 4
Least 2

5) Can you travel any time, or are you locked into the school schedule?

We have two boys ages 3 and 6. We live in the frozen tundra of ND. I’m not worried about them missing school, but prefer during Jan-March.

6) Can you make firm plans 12 or more mos. in advance?

Yes, if need be

7) Can you vacation for a full week at a time?

Yes

8) What level of accommodations do you prefer on a scale of 1 to 5 stars?

5

9) How much can you afford to spend upfront, without financing?

$15k

10) How much can you afford to spend every year for a maintenance fee that will come due right after Christmas, and increase each year?

$2,000

11) Are you a detail oriented planner?

Not really. We love Mousai. We don’t really plan much other than fishing with my buddy.

12) Do you understand that once you buy a timeshare, it may be very difficult to sell or give away, and you are responsible for all fees, until you do?

Yes

Thank you for your time and insights in advance!
Pete

You lose Elite status with a resale purchase. We bought a resale contract with 7300 annual points. Use all of the points between ourselves, family members and renters.

Resale owners are kind of left alone regarding contract upgrading while at the resort. This is a GOOD thing.

Look on RedWeek for rentals and resales. No resales right now (I checked). They come up and the purchase price is negotiable. I would say you could get a contract for $7-8k.
Love our usage. Wish we had Elite though.

 

[Beach57]

We never have trouble with reservations, but we always book 9-12 months out because we have to plan for work vacation requests and airfare.

 

[Pedro1515]

You lose Elite status with a resale purchase. We bought a resale contract with 7300 annual points. Use all of the points between ourselves, family members and renters.

Resale owners are kind of left alone regarding contract upgrading while at the resort. This is a GOOD thing.

Look on RedWeek for rentals and resales. No resales right now (I checked). They come up and the purchase price is negotiable. I would say you could get a contract for $7-8k.
Love our usage. Wish we had Elite though.

Thank you for your input!!
What does Elite status actually get you (other than a fancy blue reservation placard at the pool)?

 

[easyrider]

With Tafer/GB Residence Club, what is lost with a resale? Do I still get Preferred points?

I see you are a guest. I hope you consider becoming a member if you find us helpful. You can use me as a reference.

No, preferred points are forfeited in resale to anyone other than a family member as outlined in the regs. The membership turns into a floating week. Depending on how many points there are in the account the week would be the equivalent of points for the allocated season. Basically it's not a good deal, but if it doesn't cost too much as a resale, it isn't that bad of a deal either. You could speak to Resortcom to find out the info on the account before taking it. Some accounts do transfer as points.

Bill
pg 61 of the regs
If a Transfer is completed to a person other than a Family Member Transferee, the Selling Member shall forfeit any and all rights to utilize Club Points associated with the Selling Member’s account and the Membership use rights shall automatically and irrevocably change as follows for that transferee: (a) Membership will change to a Floating Week Membership with Weeks, Unit Type and Season to be determined by the Optimal Use of purchased Club Points as Stated in Exhibit “A” of the Membership Agreement.

 

[Beach57]

Thank you for your input!!
What does Elite status actually get you (other than a fancy blue reservation placard at the pool)?

One round trip private transportation per year, the ability to use your points to pay for 100% of your all-inclusive fees, free room upgrade, no cancellation fee close to your booking (I believe), free massage, free water therapy, butler service. All these things (except a butler) have great value to us. You can look this up online.

We know people who book a studio and then arrive at the resort and always get a free upgrade to a one bedroom suite (such a point savings).

I also love the idea of using the points for 100% AI payment. Right now, non elite members can use points to pay 50% of AI.

Actually, so far, the membership has been very worthwhile for us, but I do lust for Elite.

 

[jeff123]

I also love the idea of using the points for 100% AI payment. Right now, non elite members can use points to pay 50% of AI.

You no longer have to be elite for this one. They changed it and everyone can now use points for 100% AI payment.

Now Use 100% Points Redemption On Select Vacation Options - My UVCI blog

At Universal Vacation Club International, we are dedicated to enhancing your vacation experience. We are constantly striving to develop innovative programs that elevate your membership and create unforgettable vacations. Now, we are pleased to announce that you can now use up to 100% points...

blog.myuvci.com

 

[Pedro1515]

I see you are a guest. I hope you consider becoming a member if you find us helpful. You can use me as a reference.

No, preferred points are forfeited in resale to anyone other than a family member as outlined in the regs. The membership turns into a floating week. Depending on how many points there are in the account the week would be the equivalent of points for the allocated season. Basically it's not a good deal, but if it doesn't cost too much as a resale, it isn't that bad of a deal either. You could speak to Resortcom to find out the info on the account before taking it. Some accounts do transfer as points.

Bill
pg 61 of the regs
If a Transfer is completed to a person other than a Family Member Transferee, the Selling Member shall forfeit any and all rights to utilize Club Points associated with the Selling Member’s account and the Membership use rights shall automatically and irrevocably change as follows for that transferee: (a) Membership will change to a Floating Week Membership with Weeks, Unit Type and Season to be determined by the Optimal Use of purchased Club Points as Stated in Exhibit “A” of the Membership Agreement.

Thank you for your help! I see some on SMTN.com that are floating weeks and others that are points. Still a little confused on the jargon, but I’ll stare at it some more and hope it sinks in.

 

[Pedro1515]

One round trip private transportation per year, the ability to use your points to pay for 100% of your all-inclusive fees, free room upgrade, no cancellation fee close to your booking (I believe), free massage, free water therapy, butler service. All these things (except a butler) have great value to us. You can look this up online.

We know people who book a studio and then arrive at the resort and always get a free upgrade to a one bedroom suite (such a point savings).

I also love the idea of using the points for 100% AI payment. Right now, non elite members can use points to pay 50% of AI.

Actually, so far, the membership has been very worthwhile for us, but I do lust for Elite.

So, when you purchased resale, you received a contract that retains the points and weren’t converted (as per the bylaws above from Bill)? The conversion to a floating week from points when purchasing a resale seems weird to me.

 

[easyrider]

Thank you for your help! I see some on SMTN.com that are floating weeks and others that are points. Still a little confused on the jargon, but I’ll stare at it some more and hope it sinks in.

With this resort system the ownership started with fixed weeks which are a week and date. The next ownership is a floating Premiere membership which are any week in the season that was bought which are winter, summer and holiday. The next ownership is floating Gold membership which are basically the same as the upgraded to Premiere. The three owners of the Villa Group split up into their own systems and became points. These points have evolved into different levels and different usage.

In all of these memberships except Gold, any resale to a non-family member reverts to a type of membership that is similar to a Premiere membership. Basically, all points memberships revert to a timeshare week with a home resort. The downside is a 10 month reservation window, the perks and benefits of points are gone and the maintenance fee remains high.

Below are the rules and regs for Tafer.

Bill

https://www.taferresidenceclub.com/lib/docs/Rules-and-Regulations-Rules-GB-Dic-2014.pdf

 

[Beach57]

You no longer have to be elite for this one. They changed it and everyone can now use points for 100% AI payment.

Now Use 100% Points Redemption On Select Vacation Options - My UVCI blog

At Universal Vacation Club International, we are dedicated to enhancing your vacation experience. We are constantly striving to develop innovative programs that elevate your membership and create unforgettable vacations. Now, we are pleased to announce that you can now use up to 100% points...

blog.myuvci.com

Wow! Even for Tafer resorts? If so, great news!

 

[Beach57]

So, when you purchased resale, you received a contract that retains the points and weren’t converted (as per the bylaws above from Bill)? The conversion to a floating week from points when purchasing a resale seems weird to me.

Mine stayed the same except for the loss of Elite status which the previous owners had.
I should clarify that mine was a takeover purchase from a bankruptcy, but I don’t think that should matter.

 

[easyrider]

Mine stayed the same except for the loss of Elite status which the previous owners had.
I should clarify that mine was a takeover purchase from a bankruptcy, but I don’t think that should matter.

Resortcom can see if the points contract reverts to a Premiere type float week. Some don't revert but many go the way of the regs. It seems that some points memberships, at the discretion of the director, remain point memberships. Elite status gives the points membership the ability to reserve in "Elite Inventory Suites " and the "Elite Section of the resorts". It could be that point memberships stripped of Elite Status is basically the same as a Premiere membership. The Elite inventory is the upgraded upper floors with pretty good views. Without Elite Status the inventory pool for rooms is the same as the lower membership levels.

Bill

 

[jeff123]

Wow! Even for Tafer resorts? If so, great news!

Sorry. It looks like it's only for Villa Group resorts. Tafer is still 50%. The two have always had differences but it seems like they keep getting further apart. I wish they would split the Facebook group into two different groups.

 

[SML123]

Tafer Resort properties are a great membership to own. The resorts are solid and we really enjoy our vacations at all of the properties we have been to. Resale is definitely the way to go. A resale contract gets you everything a developer contract gets you EXCEPT... you cannot borrow weeks from the end of the contract term and you can only borrow or bank 3 years at a time instead of 5. Oh yeah, even if you have more than 5000 points in your contract you arent labeled Elite. So you dont get flowers wine and fruit basket in your room, a butler to make reservations for you (lol), one free airport round trip per year, saved pool seats in your own section. When you are looking at paying $2000 for a contract that the original buyer gave $25,000 for, I can buy my own flowers wine and fruit, make my own dinner reservations online, pay the $100 for a private car pickup and slip the pool guy a $20 and get a seat in the Elite section. I would rather have the $65,000 bucks I saved in my stock account. Elite is a bs sales tool used to entice people who are wowed by fake status.

 

[Pedro1515]

Tafer Resort properties are a great membership to own. The resorts are solid and we really enjoy our vacations at all of the properties we have been to. Resale is definitely the way to go. A resale contract gets you everything a developer contract gets you EXCEPT... you cannot borrow weeks from the end of the contract term and you can only borrow or bank 3 years at a time instead of 5. Oh yeah, even if you have more than 5000 points in your contract you arent labeled Elite. So you dont get flowers wine and fruit basket in your room, a butler to make reservations for you (lol), one free airport round trip per year, saved pool seats in your own section. When you are looking at paying $2000 for a contract that the original buyer gave $25,000 for, I can buy my own flowers wine and fruit, make my own dinner reservations online, pay the $100 for a private car pickup and slip the pool guy a $20 and get a seat in the Elite section. I would rather have the $65,000 bucks I saved in my stock account. Elite is a bs sales tool used to entice people who are wowed by fake status.

Thank you for your insight! I’m still looking, but they are hard to find. One listing on SMTN.com I am interested in doesn’t respond to inquiries from me or the agent. Trying to stay patient. Cheers!

 

[Seaport104]

One round trip private transportation per year, the ability to use your points to pay for 100% of your all-inclusive fees, free room upgrade, no cancellation fee close to your booking (I believe), free massage, free water therapy, butler service. All these things (except a butler) have great value to us. You can look this up online.

We know people who book a studio and then arrive at the resort and always get a free upgrade to a one bedroom suite (such a point savings).

I also love the idea of using the points for 100% AI payment. Right now, non elite members can use points to pay 50% of AI.

Actually, so far, the membership has been very worthwhile for us, but I do lust for Elite.

The best route is to buy a resale, attend a presentation and they will give you equity for that resale and a good deal if you really want elite.

I bought Garza resale and they offered me a decent deal to trade it in (definitely less than $70k) but Elite isn't important to me. Garza and Mousai are the top tier in Mexico. We had our annual family reunion vacation in Garza (22 of us) and my family members all said it was the best so far. To compare, our prior reunions were Hilton Hawaiin Village Lagoon Tower with 3BR penthouse, Marriott Koolina in 2BR penthouse units and 3BR, Grand Residence Tahoe 3BR/2BR units, Elara Las Vegas and Marriott Aruba Ocean Club.

I was upgraded from the smallest penthouse to Penthouse Prime (2 story PH in the lobby building). It was AMAZING. After that unit, I told my family it is all downhill from here!

 

[Beach57]

The best route is to buy a resale, attend a presentation and they will give you equity for that resale and a good deal if you really want elite.

I bought Garza resale and they offered me a decent deal to trade it in (definitely less than $70k) but Elite isn't important to me. Garza and Mousai are the top tier in Mexico. We had our annual family reunion vacation in Garza (22 of us) and my family members all said it was the best so far. To compare, our prior reunions were Hilton Hawaiin Village Lagoon Tower with 3BR penthouse, Marriott Koolina in 2BR penthouse units and 3BR, Grand Residence Tahoe 3BR/2BR units, Elara Las Vegas and Marriott Aruba Ocean Club.

I was upgraded from the smallest penthouse to Penthouse Prime (2 story PH in the lobby building). It was AMAZING. After that unit, I told my family it is all downhill from here!

Haha! The properties are something else, and the FOOD! Glad you’re enjoying your weeks.

It seems as if they are considering more entertainment. Did you receive the email survey about concerts? We saw a mentalist show in Cancun and it was excellent. Would love more quality night time entertainment.

 

[Beach57]

Tafer Resort properties are a great membership to own. The resorts are solid and we really enjoy our vacations at all of the properties we have been to. Resale is definitely the way to go. A resale contract gets you everything a developer contract gets you EXCEPT... you cannot borrow weeks from the end of the contract term and you can only borrow or bank 3 years at a time instead of 5. Oh yeah, even if you have more than 5000 points in your contract you arent labeled Elite. So you dont get flowers wine and fruit basket in your room, a butler to make reservations for you (lol), one free airport round trip per year, saved pool seats in your own section. When you are looking at paying $2000 for a contract that the original buyer gave $25,000 for, I can buy my own flowers wine and fruit, make my own dinner reservations online, pay the $100 for a private car pickup and slip the pool guy a $20 and get a seat in the Elite section. I would rather have the $65,000 bucks I saved in my stock account. Elite is a bs sales tool used to entice people who are wowed by fake status.

Are you sure regular contract people can’t borrow weeks from the end?

 

[Jesus Quintana]

If you want to buy into the Tafer Group, you can pick up contracts on Ebay for nothing. I bought 2 on there and paid ZERO dollars for either of them. The one even had a crap ton of unused points I was able to use for a 3 bedroom penthouse on my first trip. Once you find one get the contact number and call resortcom and they will tell you exactley what your contract consists of before you make the swap.

 

[Pedro1515]

If you want to buy into the Tafer Group, you can pick up contracts on Ebay for nothing. I bought 2 on there and paid ZERO dollars for either of them. The one even had a crap ton of unused points I was able to use for a 3 bedroom penthouse on my first trip. Once you find one get the contact number and call resortcom and they will tell you exactley what your contract consists of before you make the swap.

I’ve been looking there as well. Nothing available on my searches. Thank you for the insight!

 

[BradV]

Mine stayed the same except for the loss of Elite status which the previous owners had.
I should clarify that mine was a takeover purchase from a bankruptcy, but I don’t think that should matter.

How did you find a bankruptcy contract to take over? I've been looking for a contract to take over for about six months now and can't find any. Everything is for sale and they are asking for ridiculously high prices for a resale contract.