Consumers are still “baffled” by the various vacation opportunities on offer in today’s rapidly changing second home/vacation club market. To keep things simple, we’ve introduced a concise question and answer platform to help consumers decide what kind of product best suits their needs. These are initial questions to help consumers sort through the wide range of information available from websites, developers, and consumer advocacy groups.

1. As the owner of your vacation property, how important is the security of your investment to you?

The strongest shared resort ownership model is a fractional purchase. It fills a gap for both consumers and developers: it has a great image; offers a variety of products and locations; and many of the major hotel brands have jumped on board. It is fully deeded and secure, just like any other form of real estate. The bottom line is that it fills a need and it works! Today’s Fractional Owners and developers have benefited from the legal frameworks designed for Timeshare: they are protected with deeds and title insurance; they have the ability to obtain consumer loans; they may even re-sell your property.

2. How important is it to you to vacation in various places?

Multi-site clubs (Destination Clubs) like Exclusive Resorts and others offer members many geographic locations for their use. Many of these properties are located in the world’s most popular vacation destinations. However, more often than not, club members do not have a real estate deed to support their membership.

3. Do you want to own real estate?

Those who purchase a membership in a multi-site club are just that, “club members.” They do not own real estate. Those who purchase a real estate interest in a private residential club or high-end fractional ownership are owners and members of the homeowners’ association comprised of all owners of that project. In other words, you own your property, even if it is only part of it. It is represented by a board of directors of an HOA.

4. Do you want to insure the value of your purchase?

If you’re comfortable with a country club-style membership that offers luxury vacations, then a destination club can certainly fit your needs for a pricey entry fee. Regardless of the type of membership or ownership you choose, look for credibility in a developer. What have they done before? With whom are they associated? Do you know the area? Have they fulfilled the repurchase commitments established in the contracts? Are your annual dues or dues going to support the operations of the club or are they going to pay the mortgages on the houses in the program? All these elements are key to a solid and safe investment.

5. What do you look for when you vacation?

If you’re shopping for the holidays, what should you look for? Since you are dealing with real estate, the first component is always location in a popular vacation destination area. Be sure to decide on the area that fits your family’s needs. Are they skiers? Buyers? Walkers? swimmers? Art lovers? Tourists? Spa goers? Make your choice wisely and you will be satisfied with your investment in your free time.

For more information: www.carlgberry.com www.starresortgroup.com