Jones Lang LaSalle research on Timeshare

The hotel investment services group Jones Lang LaSalle has published some research on Timeshare in Australia.

The document gives a history of timeshare, lists the major players in Australia (including Trendwest) and includes an account of attending a timeshare information evening, which was similar to the one that I've described on this website.

Most interesting, however, were their listings of advantages and disadvantages of timeshare.

Advantages:

• Significantly less initial capital outlay than complete ownership
• Purchase only the number of holiday weeks / points you wish to use
• Purchase at today’s prices – save money on future holidays
• Increasing network of global exchanges and increasing flexibility
• Ability to rent the unit to others
• Access to quality apartment style accommodation

Disadvantages:

• Never own the property. Only own the right to use the property in the future
• Locations limited to timeshare participating resorts
• Limited pool of investors for resales
• Use of the unit is limited in days available
• Negative perception of timeshare in Australia

I also liked the final paragraph of the description of the information evening:

I would seriously consider it once I had done the calculations myself and had paid off a few of my current debts.

With that, I totally agree.

Tags: trendwest worldmark