Many individuals purchase timeshares with the idea of securing a consistent vacation destination each year and making a sound real estate investment that will grow in value over time. However, the reality for many timeshare owners can be vastly different.
In addition to the hefty upfront cost of the timeshare, owners often find themselves burdened with significant maintenance fees and other recurring expenses that can quickly add up to thousands of dollars annually. Seeking a way out of these financial obligations, some turn to timeshare exit companies like Resort Release for assistance in navigating the process of breaking free from their contracts.
What is Resort Release?
Resort Release—also known as American Resource Management Group—is a timeshare exit company that has been in business since 2013. The company specializes in helping consumers legally cancel their timeshare ownership contracts. It distinguishes itself by offering two 100% money-back guarantees: one ensuring that no future fees will be charged after the cancellation service is completed, and a second promising a permanent and legal termination of the timeshare agreement.
However, it’s important to note that as of May 7, 2019, Resort Release filed for bankruptcy under Case NO.: 19-14605-JKO (filed on April 9, 2019). This development underscores the risks associated with companies in the timeshare exit industry—especially those that require upfront fees. It also reinforces the recommendation to use an escrow payment option, where funds remain secure until the timeshare cancellation is successfully completed, thereby offering additional protection should a company go out of business.
Services Offered by Resort Release
Resort Release, also known as American Resource Management Group, offers a structured approach to canceling timeshare agreements. Their service is designed to carefully analyze your timeshare documents, identify potential legal weaknesses in your contract, and craft a personalized strategy for cancellation. With a strong emphasis on consumer protection, they back their process with dual 100% money-back guarantees. Although their service requires an upfront fee, they advocate for the use of escrow payments to secure your funds until the cancellation is successfully completed.
- Contract Analysis & Legal Strategy:
Thoroughly reviews your timeshare documents and develops a customized legal approach for cancellation. - Dual 100% Money-Back Guarantees:
Guarantees no additional fees after cancellation and ensures a permanent, legally binding termination of your timeshare ownership. - Upfront Fee Model with Safeguards:
Requires an upfront fee, with a strong recommendation to use escrow payment options for added financial protection. - Personalized Consultations & Regular Updates:
Provides one-on-one consultations and ongoing communication throughout the cancellation process.
Reputation and Reviews
Resort Release has historically enjoyed a largely positive reputation within the timeshare exit industry. Since its inception in 2013, the company has been recognized as a stable operation—evidenced by its Platinum membership in the Rockford Chamber of Commerce—and has received notable accolades, including the prestigious Torch Award for marketplace ethics. With 271 positive BBB reviews and only two minor complaints (one resolved and one pending follow-up), many consumers have reported successful outcomes and commendable service.
However, it is important to note that despite these positive markers, Resort Release filed for bankruptcy on April 9, 2019, an event that raises concerns about its financial stability and underscores the risks associated with upfront fee models. This mixed record reinforces the industry recommendation to utilize escrow payment options to ensure your funds are secure in the event of unforeseen business challenges.
Pros and Cons of Resort Release?
When evaluating Resort Release for your timeshare exit, it’s important to consider both the benefits and the potential drawbacks. Below is an organized, user-friendly breakdown to help you make an informed decision.
Pros
- Two 100% Money-Back Guarantees:
- No Future Fees: You won’t incur any additional charges after your timeshare is successfully canceled.
- Legal & Permanent Cancellation: Their guarantee ensures that your timeshare is terminated in a legal and permanent manner.
- Strong Reputation and Industry Recognition:
- Positive Customer Feedback: With over 271 positive reviews on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and only a few minor complaints, customer satisfaction appears high.
- Established Credibility: Operating since 2013 and holding a Platinum membership in the Rockford Chamber of Commerce highlights their longstanding presence and commitment in the industry.
- Ethical Recognition: Awards such as the Torch Award for marketplace ethics from the BBB further underline their commitment to ethical business practices.
- Customer Endorsements: Many satisfied customers have shared their experiences through video testimonials, which typically indicate a strong level of trust and satisfaction.
Cons
- Upfront Fee Requirement: Resort Release requires payment before the cancellation process is complete. This means you are paying in advance, which could be risky if the promised service is not delivered as expected.
- Lack of Escrow Payment Option: Unlike some competitors that secure your money in escrow until the service is successfully completed, Resort Release does not offer this safeguard. If the company faces financial difficulties, your funds may be at risk.
- Financial Instability Concerns: The company filed for bankruptcy on April 9, 2019 (Case No.: 19-14605-JKO), which raises concerns about its current financial health and ability to complete the timeshare cancellation process.
Is Resort Release legit?
Resort Release has built a reputation over several years with numerous positive customer testimonials and BBB endorsements. The guarantees offered—ensuring no future fees post-cancellation and a legal termination of timeshare ownership—are attractive and suggest a commitment to ethical service.
That said, the financial challenges reflected in the bankruptcy filing (Case No.: 19-14605-JKO) in 2019 are a significant red flag. While the company’s past performance and industry awards indicate legitimacy, the risk associated with an upfront fee without an escrow safeguard means that potential clients should proceed with caution. It is advisable to thoroughly review your options and consider the security of your funds before committing.
Resort Release Cost
Resort Release, like many specialized timeshare exit companies, does not list a standard cost or fee structure online. This is because the service is tailored to the unique circumstances of each client’s timeshare situation. However, it is known that the company requires an upfront fee before commencing the cancellation process. Since exact costs are provided after consultation, prospective customers will need to contact the company directly for a personalized quote.
Resort Release Alternative
If you’re seeking a more secure and reliable timeshare exit solution, consider CancelTimeshareGeek. With a focus on client protection and legal expertise, CancelTimeshareGeek offers an approach designed to minimize risk and maximize results.
- Expert Legal Guidance: Their dedicated legal team specializes in timeshare exits, ensuring that your cancellation process is compliant, effective, and tailored to your specific situation.
- Customized Solutions: Recognizing that every timeshare situation is unique, CancelTimeshareGeek creates personalized strategies that address your individual needs, making your exit process smoother.
- Proven Track Record: Satisfied clients and documented success stories underscore CancelTimeshareGeek’s reputation as a reliable partner in achieving timeshare freedom.
By choosing CancelTimeshareGeek, you’re opting for a solution that not only protects your investment but also provides expert legal guidance and customized strategies. Reach out today to learn how CancelTimeshareGeek can help you achieve a secure and successful timeshare exit.
Resort Release lawsuit
While there is no record here of consumer lawsuits directly against Resort Release, the notable legal development is the bankruptcy filing (Case No.: 19-14605-JKO on April 9, 2019). Bankruptcy proceedings are not the same as a lawsuit from dissatisfied customers; however, they do signal financial distress. Given that one of the inherent risks in the timeshare exit industry is the potential for companies to vanish with client funds, the bankruptcy filing is an important factor to consider when evaluating the overall risk of using Resort Release’s services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What services does Resort Release offer?
Resort Release specializes in timeshare cancellation and exit services, aiming to permanently and legally terminate your timeshare ownership.
What guarantees does Resort Release provide?
They offer two 100% money-back guarantees—one that ensures no additional fees after the timeshare is canceled, and another that guarantees a permanent and legal cancellation of your timeshare.
Do they charge an upfront fee?
Yes, Resort Release requires an upfront fee. The exact amount isn’t listed online because the fee is determined based on your specific timeshare situation.
How does the payment process work?
Unlike companies that use escrow, Resort Release collects payment upfront. This means the funds are released to them before the cancellation service is completed, which can be risky if the company encounters financial difficulties.
Is Resort Release a legitimate company?
Historically, the company has been regarded as legitimate, backed by positive BBB reviews and industry awards. However, the bankruptcy filing in 2019 raises concerns about its current financial stability and emphasizes the risks associated with upfront fee models.