How Much Do Worldmark Points Cost? A Comprehensive Guide for Buyers
Worldmark by Wyndham offers a flexible points-based vacation ownership program, where members purchase points to book stays across a network of properties. However, the cost of Worldmark points can vary widely depending on where and how you buy them. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the price of Worldmark points, both directly from the developer and on the resale market, as well as ongoing fees, investment potential, and tips for finding the best deals. If you’re considering alternative options for your timeshare or want assistance with a timeshare exit, CancelTimeshareGeek is here to help.
How Much Do Worldmark Points Cost Directly from the Developer?
Purchasing Worldmark points directly from Wyndham, the developer of the Worldmark brand, can be significantly more expensive than buying them on the resale market. Here’s an overview of the costs you might encounter:
- Cost per Point: When buying directly from Wyndham, the price per Worldmark point typically ranges from $2.00 to $2.25 per point, depending on the location and the package chosen.
- Minimum Purchase Requirements: Wyndham may have minimum purchase requirements, meaning buyers often have to commit to purchasing a set number of points, typically starting at 5,000 points.
- Added Perks: Buying directly may include perks like VIP status, which can offer benefits such as room upgrades and priority bookings, though these advantages may not justify the higher cost for all buyers.
While purchasing points directly from Wyndham offers certain advantages, the price premium may deter some buyers, especially those who are comfortable using the resale market.
Worldmark Points on the Resale Market: What to Expect
The resale market provides a more affordable way to buy Worldmark points, with potential savings of up to 50% compared to developer prices. Here’s what you need to know about buying on the resale market:
- Cost per Point: Worldmark points on the resale market typically range from $0.50 to $1.00 per point. Prices can fluctuate based on demand, point package size, and market conditions.
- No Developer Perks: Unlike points purchased directly from Wyndham, resale points generally do not come with VIP status or other developer perks.
- Due Diligence: It’s important to work with reputable resale brokers and verify transfer procedures to avoid issues during the purchase process.
For budget-conscious buyers, the resale market offers a cost-effective way to enter the Worldmark program and enjoy its flexible vacation options.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Worldmark Points
Several factors influence the cost of Worldmark points:
- Point origin and timing: Prices are normally a bit higher for points paired with the top/popular destinations/seasons.
- The larger the point package, the cheaper each individual point tends to come as sellers offer various discounts as you go up in size.
- Market Conditions: The resale market ebbs and flows like any other with supply, demand, and economic conditions that can affect prices.
- Ownership: Some Worldmark memberships confer Premier or Elite status which may make the points more desirable.
Buyers will need to know this information to make educated decisions on when and how best they can buy points.
Ongoing Fees and Maintenance Costs for Worldmark Points
Owning Worldmark points also involves ongoing maintenance fees. Here’s what to expect:
- Annual Maintenance Fees: Worldmark charges annual maintenance fees based on the number of points owned. The average fee is approximately $0.07 per point per year.
- Special Assessments: In addition to regular maintenance fees, owners may occasionally face special assessments for property upgrades or unexpected expenses.
- Increasing Fees: Maintenance fees may increase over time to cover rising operating costs and property improvements.
Being aware of these ongoing costs is essential for budgeting and understanding the total cost of Worldmark ownership.
How to Buy Additional Worldmark Points
For existing owners, a purchase of additional points may give you more flexibility in booking longer stays or more frequent vacations. So how do you purchase more points?
- Buy More Points: You can purchase more points directly from Wyndham at the developer rate, possibly with some included VIP benefits.
- Resale Market: One option is to purchase points on the resale market, which may not come with any complementary VIP perks and are also priced significantly lower.
- Point Rentals: Hoping to pay a deposit by renting points from other owners is much cheaper than buying.
While these options mean that you will be able to extend your Worldmark membership depending on what exactly suits the needs and budget.
Are Worldmark Points a Good Investment?
Worldmark points provide great flexibility with vacation planning, but they are generally not considered an investment property given narrow resale market and continuing fees. Things to Consider:
- Retention of value: Most timeshare points do not retain their initial purchase, in particular when acquired directly from a developer.
- Worldmark Points For Your Next Vacation: Worldmark points can be a good value, providing access to many resorts even if you own more than one contract.
- An exit strategy: Unlike traditional real estate, the resale of timeshares does not typically appreciate over time. However, it is important to have an exit plan that may include reselling the timeshare or renting out your ownership — also using a timeshare exit service like Consumerexit for example.
While those seeking only a platform to hope from vacation should get some value from Worldmark points, the program is far less of an investment for anyone looking at ownership through long-length stability on other kinds of properties.
Comparing Worldmark Points to Other Timeshare Options
Worldmark by Wyndham is just one of countless timeshare programs out there. Here is how it measures up against some alternatives:
- Flexibility: Worldmark operates on a points system, which gives owners more flexibility to choose when and where they want to book their stay compared to some fixed-week timeshares.
- Expense: Worldmark points are often less expensive than other timeshare programs on the resale market, including larger timeshare systems like Disney Vacation Club or Hilton Grand Vacations.
- Availability: Worldmark has a diverse selection of destinations in the U.S., Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean.
Buyers compare Worldmark to other programs in order to assess the best fit in helping them achieve their travel goals at an affordable cost.
Tips for Finding the Best Deals on Worldmark Points
Here are strategies to help you find the best deals on Worldmark points:
- Utilize the Resale Market: Look for points on timeshare resale websites, such as RedWeek or Timeshare Users Group (TUG), where prices are generally lower.
- Work with Reputable Brokers: To avoid scams, work with a licensed and reputable broker who specializes in timeshare resale.
- Timing Matters: Prices may be lower during certain times of the year, such as the off-peak season when demand is low.
- Watch for Promotions: Occasionally, Wyndham may offer promotional rates or discounts on additional points for current owners.
Following these tips can help you maximize savings when purchasing Worldmark points.
Sharon Wilson
