How Much Does It Cost to Get Out of a Timeshare?

Owning a timeshare can be a dream. Trying to get rid of one—a nightmare. Owners find it hard to believe the timeshare costs involved with the ownership and that the timeshare they paid so much for when it was new is now worth so little on the resale market—often just pennies on the dollar, if that.

Even more shocking? The dream of vacation ownership becomes a further financial burden when faced with the reality of selling or canceling it. The cost to get out of a timeshare can be unexpectedly high, with fees for transfer services, legal assistance, or even penalties imposed by the resort.

The only sure-fire way to get rid of your timeshare—and put an end to those life-long annual maintenance fees, is to pay a company like Timeshare Specialists to transfer the title.

What’s The Average Cost To Get Out Of A Timeshare?

If you’re wondering how much it costs to get out of a timeshare, the truth is that it depends. The average cost to get out of a timeshare can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to over $15,000, depending on your situation.

The final price is affected by factors such as the resort brand, whether you still owe on a mortgage, and the exit method you choose – be it selling, deeding back, or working with a professional timeshare exit company. For example, legal services or attorney-backed exit solutions tend to be on the higher end, while some deedback programs may offer low-cost or even free cancellation if your ownership is paid in full.

Average Cost To Get Out Of A Timeshare By Exit Method

There’s no one-size-fits-all price tag when it comes to timeshare cancellation. Your final cost depends heavily on the route you choose. Here’s a breakdown of common exit methods and what you can expect to pay:

Rescission period (Almost Free)

If you’re still within your state’s legal rescission window, typically 3 to 14 days after signing the contract, you’re in luck. Canceling during this period is often almost free, as it simply involves sending the seller a letter to inform them of your decision. Just make sure to act fast, as the window closes quickly. Here’s a guide on what steps to take to divest this way.

Timeshare transfer companies or timeshare real estate brokers (You Might Get Paid)

When developers seek to reclaim inventory, they sometimes pay up to $2,000 to take the timeshare back. These transactions are usually handled discreetly through third-party transfer companies or brokers with industry connections.

Deedback to the developer (Up to $2,000)

If your developer offers a deedback program, this can be a straightforward way out, provided your account is current and the timeshare is paid off. Expect to pay up to $2,000 in processing or administrative fees.

Timeshare broker (Around 50% Commission)

If your timeshare still holds value, a licensed broker may be able to sell it for you. They’ll take a commission of around 50% of the sale price. Just note: if your timeshare has little to no market value, a broker likely won’t take it on.

Working with a lawyer (Up to $15,000)

Hiring a timeshare attorney may be the best route when a mortgage is still owed or legal issues are involved. Legal exits often involve proving misrepresentation or high-pressure sales tactics and can cost up to $15,000.

Timeshare exit companies (Up to $10,000)

In some cases, timeshare exit companies can help you exit your timeshare without having to use the services of an attorney. In this case, the cost of divesting can vary between $2,000 and $10,000.

Selling the timeshare yourself (Advertising Fees + Ongoing Costs)

This DIY option may seem cost-effective at first. While listing fees aren’t that expensive, the real cost comes in time, effort, and ongoing maintenance fees—especially if the property takes years to sell (which is common). Here are some tips on how to sell successfully.

Factors That Influence the Cost To Get Out Of Timeshare

So, what drives the cost to get out of a timeshare? Key variables include how much you owe (if anything), whether your account is current on maintenance fees, and how long you’ve owned the property. Additionally, certain brands are more cooperative with exit programs than others.

Timeshare Exit Cost For The Andersons

This question of timeshare exit cost is one that Barbara and Roy Anderson asked. They asked us what the average cost to get out of a timeshare was and for the best way to get rid of a timeshare. Their journey reflects the common predicament timeshare owners face when seeking an exit strategy.

The Andersons live in New Hampshire and own a timeshare in Orlando. Barbara and Roy originally bought their vacation property so that their young kids could enjoy Disneyland while they were growing up. With a kitchen and extra bedroom, the timeshare acted like a second home, right next to their fantasy getaway. But now their kids are in high school and not so interested in Mickey Mouse. Furthermore, Barbara and Roy want to explore new places, like the Caribbean.

To help Barbara and Roy understand the intricacies of timeshare divestment costs, we gave them a step-by-step guide to everything you need to know to sell a timeshare yourself. It’s the exact process we use here at Timeshare Specialists. Find even more timeshare selling tips here.

The Cost of Waiting

After looking at the list and understanding resale challenges and realizing how much work and money it would cost them to try to sell their own timeshare, the Andersons decided to have us handle their transfer hassle free. While it may seem self-serving for us to say it, the sad truth is that the timeshare resale market is so corrupt and ruthless that very few owners survive it, much less benefit from it.

It’s a proven fact that the longer people wait to get rid of their timeshare, the more it will typically cost them.

That’s also why the remark we hear most often from our customers is “I wish I had done this sooner.”

Is Paying To Exit Worth It?

While the average cost to get out of a timeshare may seem steep, it often pales compared to the long-term financial burden of staying locked in. Annual maintenance fees, which average over $1,000 and typically increase yearly, add up quickly, especially for owners who no longer use the property. In that context, paying to exit is often the most financially responsible decision. We’ve seen too many owners regret not acting sooner, only to face higher costs and more stress down the road.

Timeshare Expert Advice

Those wanting to get rid of their timeshare pay a higher and higher cost each year they choose to keep a timeshare they aren’t using, don’t want, or no longer need.

Top Tip: The longer you wait to divest, the more it will cost to get out of a timeshare. Annual fees, special assessments, and taxes will add up quickly.

If you have any questions about timeshare exit costs or about how to get rid of your timeshare, call us anytime at 1-800-965-6565 for free expert advice.

FAQs:

How much does it cost to exit a timeshare?

The cost to exit a timeshare varies depending on the exit strategy you choose. Transfer services, legal assistance, and resort-imposed fees can all contribute to the final price. Professional services like Timeshare Specialists ensure a smooth, secure process and can help you avoid costly pitfalls.

Why does the cost to get out of a timeshare increase over time?

Waiting to divest from your timeshare can lead to rising costs due to annual maintenance fees, special assessments, and property taxes. Acting sooner helps reduce these ongoing financial obligations.

Can I sell my timeshare myself?

Yes, but selling a timeshare independently involves navigating the complex resale market, managing legal paperwork, and avoiding scams. Many owners find it more effective to work with professionals.

What if I still owe on my timeshare mortgage?

If you still owe money on your timeshare, your options become more limited—and usually more expensive. You’ll likely need legal or professional help, and costs can run up to $15,000 or more depending on the situation.

Why does it cost money to get rid of something I already own?

Unlike traditional real estate, most timeshares depreciate quickly and often have no resale value. The fees you’re paying cover administrative costs, legal work, title transfers, or services from an exit company to legally end your ownership.

Is it ever free to get out of a timeshare?

Yes, if you’re still within your state’s rescission period (usually 3 to 14 days after signing), you can cancel the contract at little to no cost. Outside of that window, exiting typically involves some expense.

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