8 Hidden Timeshare Fees You Might Not Even Realize 

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8 Hidden Timeshare Fees You Might Not Even Realize 

Buying a timeshare often seems like a good idea. You get to vacation at the same wonderful resort year after year. However, there are many hidden fees and costs associated with timeshares that can quickly turn a bargain into a burdensome money pit. The following are eight not-so-obvious timeshare fees you need to know about before taking the plunge. 

Maintenance Fees  

Timeshares often come with annual maintenance fees that owners must pay. These fees typically cover property taxes, utilities, housekeeping, landscaping, trash collection, insurance, routine maintenance, management costs, and reserve funds for future capital improvements. Maintenance fees are set by the timeshare developer or homeowners association and generally range from $400 to over $1000 per interval owned. 

The fees often increase each year and there is little owners can do to change them. Failure to pay maintenance fees can result in forfeiture of timeshare ownership and privileges. Owners should factor in continual rising fees when considering a timeshare purchase. These fees may lead you to look into Timeshare Cancellation options.  

Special Assessments 

On top of regular maintenance fees, timeshares can charge special assessments for major repairs or improvements. For example, if a new roof or plumbing system is needed, you’ll likely face a special assessment of hundreds or even thousands of dollars. These fees are impossible to anticipate and budget for when you first buy into a timeshare. 

Exchange Fees 

Trading your timeshare week to stay at another resort isn’t free. You’ll pay exchange companies $100-$200 in fees per trade. Exchanges also limit when and where you can travel. Popular resorts book up quickly in exchange networks. You may struggle to get the vacation times and locations you want through exchanges. 

Housekeeping Fees  

Many timeshare resorts now charge mandatory housekeeping fees between $50-$150 when you check out. Some resorts only provide limited housekeeping during your stay as well. Daily tidying or towel changes could cost extra. Housekeeping fees ensure you pay for cleaning costs rather than other owners subsidizing your messy unit. 

Reservation Fees  

Booking your vacation week isn’t always free either. Resorts can charge $25 or more for phone and online reservations. If you call to request a specific unit or view, there could be extra phone fees too. 

Parking and Amenity Fees  

Timeshares frequently tack on fees for parking, internet access, beach chairs, gym passes, and other amenities. The daily parking fee quickly piles up. These fees often get hiked up regularly, so that the “free” perk you were promised at purchase may not stay free for long. 

Late Fees  

Maintenance fees are typically due January 1. Expect steep late fees of $25 or more if you miss the due date by even one day. Some resorts even charge interest on late fees. Automate payments so you never miss the deadline and incur late fees. 

Transfer Fees  

Selling or giving away your timeshare means paying transfer fees. Resorts charge $100-$500+ to change the deed and cover administrative costs. Even if you find a willing buyer, you’ll pay fees to transfer your timeshare whether you sell it or just give it away. 

The initial buy-in cost of a timeshare is just the tip of the iceberg. Carefully calculate all the recurring yearly fees, taxes, potential rent income lost, and extra costs. Timeshares often come with perpetuity clauses too. You may be stuck paying fees long after the timeshare loses value for you.