Hi folks! My history on this site is paying $15,000 of Westin points at Westin Desert Willow Villas then rescinding after finding these forums. Thanks! Have explored resales but not committed to anything yet. Now, a friend is asking if I want his Monarch Grand Vacations timeshare. I know there have been changes since he bought it so want to know what questions to ask!
Here's what I know so far:
Questions:
Any advice or warnings are appreciated!!! Thank you amazing folks.
Here's what I know so far:
- Bought in 1999, escrow paperwork shows it was purchased at PALM CANYON RESORT & SPA
- Paid off in 2005, letter from Pacific Monarch Resorts Inc with a Certificate of Ownership for Monarch Grand Vacations
- Assessment Fees - Bill from Monarch Grand Vacations Owners Association
- 2025-2nd Quarter Assessment Fees
- 2025-2nd Quarter Monarch Club Connection Fee
- Total USD $399.57
- So I am assuming the annual assessment fee totals $1,598.28
- The fee statement says they can log in at club.hiltongrandvacations.com so I assume that's who took over, it seems like there are various ways to log in. I have no idea if this was "upgraded" at some point, or if it's points, or weeks.
Questions:
- What questions should I be asking him?
- How do I actually "buy" it from him? He no longer uses it and wants to give it away.
- Are there fees involved in transferring, if it's a private transfer between us?
- Is it smart to book a vacation, while he keeps ownership, pay him the maintenance fees before buying it to see if we like it?
- What are my trade / RCI / Destination Xchange options with this timeshare? I'm also happy to just go to Palm Springs once a year as I live close by, but just curious. What other locations are in the "Monarch Grand Vacations" aka "Hilton Grand Vacations" from 1999?
- Is it weird if I just call the Grand Vacations folks myself and ask questions directly before buying, or is that not okay?
Any advice or warnings are appreciated!!! Thank you amazing folks.