For fun in the sun, maybe a timeshare is for you. Owning a timeshare can be a viable option for some families and not others.

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Consider Timeshare

For fun in the sun, maybe a timeshare is for you. Owning a timeshare can be a viable option for some families and not others.

As with any major purchase, figure out whether you'll use it often enough to justify the expense. If you vacation every year and with your family and spend at least $1,000 for your trip, then a timeshare may be a good idea.

But purchasing a timeshare won't start paying for itself unless you own it for at least 10 years. You should also purchase timeshare for vacation purposes, not for an investment.

Timeshare, no matter how grand and how expensive, will depreciate. If you've weighed your options and are interested, there are several benefits that are included that you may not receive at a hotel.

For instance, Disney Vacation Club offers perks like discounts on tickets to parks and events, extensive onsite pool complexes, golf, spa packages, and kids clubs. You also won't have to worry about how much the bill is adding up to during your stay. There's no bill presented at check out. You've already paid for your stay ahead of time.

When you're traveling with your family, the last thing you want to worry about is everyone's safety, but as a parent, it's your job.

Do adjoining hotel rooms make you nervous because you can't observe the main door?

One solution is for you to reserve a suite with a separate bedroom or two. Not only will you be able to keep an eye on your kids but you'll often have a central living room area for the family to gather in.

If you do want a suite, timeshare usually work out to be a little less expensive than two hotel rooms or a hotel suite. Further, most resorts are equipped with a kitchen, which can help you save a little money. You can fix breakfast, pack a lunch or make a late night snack without ordering out or packing the kids in the car and finding a place that's affordable. You can even refrigerate any leftovers from that fantastic meal you had at the restaurant.

You also end up with lots of dirty laundry when you travel. You can either take it all home with you or you can try to find a laundry mat - which can be quite expensive. Resorts usually offer onsite laundry facilities or ensuite laundry rooms for guests. But be sure to ask what comes standard with the suite.

Some companies supply starter packs with coffee, creamer, tea, etc. Others have onsite grocery stores where you can purchase supplies. You usually have to supply your own laundry detergent and soap.

Scared of Timeshare Scams

You've probably heard some timeshare horror stories. As in any business, there are people that want to take advantage of you. For that reason, you could stick with a name you recognize, like Hilton Grand Vacation Club. They have a vested interest in keeping standards high.

You could also attend a free weekend for a company that wants to sell timeshare.

Don't succumb to high-pressure tactics. Think over your options and if the pressure gets unbearable - simply walk away. You are under no obligation to purchase.

Another option is to purchase through a reputable reseller. There are hundreds of thousands of timeshare sales every year - many of them straight from the unit owner to the buyer. In these sales you can take advantage of your communication with the current owner for some straight talk.

You can also surf through many online forums for timeshare owners to educate yourself on the industry.

Becoming a knowledgeable buyer is your best defense against being taken advantage of. There are millions of happy timeshare owners around the world. If it's right for you, you can enjoy years of fantastic vacations in great family destinations.