Skip to content

How Much Does It Cost to Exit a Timeshare?

Step 1 of 6
canceltimesharegeek

For many owners, understanding what are the finances of getting out is an important consideration because breaking free from a timeshare can be difficult. The price to cancel or relocate a timeshare can differ widely according to the contract kind, ownership terms, and method selected for departing it. This guide will delve into these costs, explore factors that impact timeshare exit fees and compare them against do it yourself solutions versus professional service. If you are thinking of getting out of your timeshare, CancelTimeshareGeek can serve as a guide to get you through the process.



Understanding the Costs of Exiting a Timeshare


The price of getting out of a timeshare varies depending on how it will be canceled or transferred.



  • Direct Cancellation Expenses: These are the costs which are directly related to cancelation of the contract, such as administrative fees, cancellation fee, legal cost (if applicable) etc.

  • Resale or Transfer Fees: If selling the timeshare to another individual, there are also fees associated with resale or brokerage.

  • Legal and Professional Fees: Some owners will seek the assistance of legal or other professionals to ensure that they are exiting their contract legally, especially in cases where the timeshare company is not agreeable.


As you can imagine, these cost categories can really add up so it is important to determine what makes the most financial sense depending on your individual circumstances.

Step 1 of 6

Factors That Affect Timeshare Exit Costs


The timeshare exit cost depends on several factors and knowing these will help you decide better.



  • Location & Timeshare Company Policies: Fees for an exit can vary depending on where the timeshare is located and what company you are working with. Location matters as some are more regulated than others affecting fees.

  • Ownership Type: Fixed-week timeshare, floating-week, and points-based timeshares often have different exit requirements and tools as well.

  • Length of Ownership: Generally, contracts that were originally sold more recently are easier and less expensive to cancel than older or lifetime contracts.

  • Market demand: If the timeshare is in a hot-market destination area, it may even be easier to sell than canceling or handing off ownership with lower exit costs.


Assessing these factors will allow owners to know their choices and the cost ramifications of each direction.



Typical Fees for Working with a Timeshare Exit Company


Hiring a reputable timeshare exit company often provides a streamlined process, but it comes with associated costs.



  • Upfront Fees: Some companies may charge a flat fee upfront, covering all services from initial consultation to the final cancellation.

  • Pay-as-You-Go Fees: Other companies may offer payment plans, allowing owners to pay fees as services are rendered.

  • Success-Based Fees: Reputable exit companies may offer success-based fees, where clients pay only when their timeshare is successfully canceled.


Using an experienced timeshare exit company, like CancelTimeshareGeek, can make the process less stressful and increase the likelihood of a successful exit, especially in complex situations.

Legal Fees Associated with Timeshare Cancellation


For some owners, hiring a legal professional is essential, particularly if legal action is required to enforce a cancellation.



  • Attorney Consultation Fees: An initial consultation with an attorney may range from $100 to $500, depending on the complexity of the case.

  • Hourly Rates: Attorneys may charge hourly fees ranging from $200 to $400, particularly if legal representation is necessary.

  • Contingency Fees: Some attorneys work on a contingency basis, where payment is contingent on a successful outcome.


Legal representation may increase the cost but can be crucial for contracts with stricter exit requirements or legal disputes.



Costs of Transferring or Reselling a Timeshare


Transferring or reselling a timeshare can also be a way out, though there are associated costs and risks.



  • Transfer Fees: Timeshare companies often charge a fee for transferring ownership, which may range from $100 to $500.

  • Brokerage Commissions: If using a broker to facilitate the resale, expect to pay a commission, typically around 10% of the sale price.

  • Advertising Fees: For owners choosing to sell on their own, advertising fees may apply for listing the timeshare on resale websites.


While reselling can be less costly than canceling, it depends on the demand for the specific timeshare. High supply and low demand often make resales challenging.

How Annual Fees and Special Assessments Impact Exit Costs


Even during the exit process, annual fees and special assessments might still be due.



  • Annual Maintenance Fees: Timeshare contracts require owners to pay annual maintenance fees, which typically range from $500 to $2,000 depending on the resort and ownership terms.

  • Special Assessments: Timeshare resorts may levy special assessments for property upgrades or repairs, adding an unexpected financial burden.

  • Payment Obligations: Failing to pay these fees can lead to penalties, impacting credit scores, and further complicating the exit process.


Exiting quickly can help minimize additional maintenance fees or assessments, so a timely exit strategy is crucial for reducing long-term expenses.

Cancel Your Timeshare. Start with a Free Consultation!

Step 1 of 6

Comparing DIY Timeshare Exit vs. Professional Services


While some owners attempt a DIY approach to save on costs, professional services offer advantages that can make them a worthwhile investment.


DIY Exit:



  • Pros: Lower costs and greater control over the process.

  • Cons: Complex paperwork, legal nuances, and potential delays; requires a deep understanding of contract terms.

  • Potential Savings: DIY could save hundreds, but owners take on the risk of incomplete or unsuccessful cancellations.


Professional Services:



  • Pros: Expertise in handling complex exits, legal support, and peace of mind.

  • Cons: Higher upfront costs, though many reputable companies offer guarantees or success-based fees.

  • Value Proposition: Professional services can often secure faster, legally sound cancellations, especially in cases involving resistant timeshare companies.


The choice depends on each owner’s comfort level, resources, and the complexity of their contract.



Tips for Minimizing the Cost of Timeshare Exit


Identifying paths to reducing costs is about planning and options.



  • Rescission Period to Cancel: The rescission period is the time in which you can cancel without penalty—typically within a couple days after signing. Most of the costs are removed by acting within this time.

  • Negotiate with the Timeshare Company: To reduce or waive charges, some corporations even maintain exit plans for house owners who’ve encountered monetary hardships whilst negotiating with the timeshare Company.

  • Look for Success-Fee Exit Firms: Firms that only get paid when there is a successful exit offer financial protection.

  • Explore Resale Market Alternatives: Depending on where the timeshare is located, the item may have lucrative resale market value that cover exit costs.


Implementing these strategies allows owners to cut costs as well as increase the odds of an easy exit.



Picture of Julie Evenson

Julie Evenson

Julie Evenson is an experienced real estate professional and timeshare cancellation expert. She has been in the real estate industry for over 15 years, and has been writing about timeshare cancellation for the past five years. Her specialty is helping individuals and families understand their rights and find the best solution for their timeshare cancellation needs. Julie is passionate about helping people understand the complexities of timeshare cancellation, and enjoys writing about it in an easy to understand way. In her free time, Julie enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, and exploring new cultures.
Picture of Julie Evenson

Julie Evenson

Julie Evenson is an experienced real estate professional and timeshare cancellation expert. She has been in the real estate industry for over 15 years, and has been writing about timeshare cancellation for the past five years. Her specialty is helping individuals and families understand their rights and find the best solution for their timeshare cancellation needs. Julie is passionate about helping people understand the complexities of timeshare cancellation, and enjoys writing about it in an easy to understand way. In her free time, Julie enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, and exploring new cultures.