Problems mount when owners forget to bank their upcoming time period. Even when the points are banked, they then must be used within a certain time or they are lost.
Transportation costs, maid points and transfer fees to other timeshares outside your designated week all add up.
Although there are often quick turn around bargains to be found if you are willing to consider other destinations, owners must be flexible with regards to vacation dates.
If you purchase points or shares in a development and the owner goes bankrupt, you lose your investment; if the development goes into receivership, you are considered equally liable.
Timeshares work for families that are committed to a yearly vacation in the same location. Additionally, companies become your personal travel agent, taking care of airfare and car rentals at a slightly reduced price.
Families with young children find timeshares appealing, but older children with extracurricular activities (like soccer) tend to dictate where and when a family can vacation.