Permanent exchange Grande Ocean Gold OF for Westin ST Johns 2 BDRM Pres week

[MOXJO7282]

I rented our GO Gold OF to an individual and their guest loved it so much they made me this offer, my GO Gold OF for her 2BDRM Westin St Johns fixed week Pres week.

I don't know the particular yet as I understand there is two different types of 2BDRMs and I know the MFs are super high but the demand and hence the rental income should be super high.

I've requested all the details but I'm inclined to say no because we love the GO and the MFs are at least $2500 if not $3000 so I'd have to rent for $4500 and that seems very high although I do see some listed for over $5k.

Am I missing something? If the MFs were less I'd really consider because I know how nice the resort and island are but it just seems like such steep MF to make it possible to rent for any decent profit.

 

[DeniseM]

Joe - I would not accept this timeshare unless you want to use it every year yourself - the MF is so high, it's difficult to rent it for a profit, and demand for rentals isn't very strong.

Just so you know, it's "St. John" - no "s".

 

[GregT]

Joe, I'm with Denise on this one.

Westin St. John is a fabulous property, but unless you want to use it for personal use, I don't think it fits your model of a "modest" MF that can be rented profitably and easily. Additionally, different view categories at the Marriott (and your decision to buy the best views) ensure that you get your premium rental rate.

With WSJ -- a great property on a fabulous island -- it may be harder to duplicate your existing formula.

All the best,

Greg

 

[yumdrey]

I would keep GO OF gold.
You can rent it for more than MF and also renting this week is easier than rent St.John pres. week.
GO has much higher demand than St.John.
Also compare the MFs for each resort. More MF means more headache!
I would say GO gold, OF has at least 6k value.
Westin St.John, 2BR, even president day week has 3k value at most.

 

[MOXJO7282]

That is what I assumed but it did catch my attention until I researched the MFs. Its not even a LO.

Thanks for the insight.

 

[dmharris]

Maybe the solution is to swap with the Westin St. John owner every few years to enjoy a different place.

 

[jerseygirl]

I own at WSJ and wouldn't trade it for any timeshare -- I love it too much! But, I agree with the above advice wholeheartedly. East coast beach locations are "driveable" for millions of people and that adds significant rental value. A trip to St John for a family of four over President's week starts off with a minimum flight price of:

$1952 Atlanta
$1784 Miami ($1536 if willing to stop in San Juan)
$5900 New York ($2800 if willing to spend 8 hours or so getting there!)
$2612 Charlotte

Add about $500 for the convenient Westin Ferry plus $700 for a rental jeep to enjoy the island .... or about $450 - $500 for those willing to pick up their car on STT and take the car ferry over.

Then, there's hundreds/thousands of dollars for snorkeling trips (not mandatory, of course, but most take advantage of the location to visit great BVI locations).

And -- you can forget about Publix.

St John is for those who love the island. Buying hoping to make a profit from renting would not be a good idea. On the other hand, buying to ensure a terrific island vacation for a (somewhat!) known price each year -- worth every penny!