Other timeshare vs DVC....

[Laxmom]

If you don't mind me chiming in, the same addage holds for Marriott -or any timeshare for that matter- buy where you would like to stay. One, you won't have to pay an exchange fee. Two, if a trade doesn't come thru, you would be happy staying there. I added another one lately, buy where you could drive if you have to. We know we can get there if airfare is way out of line.

There is a lot to learn. We bought and then learned so you are smart by studying first. That is what we did with DVC - the learning curve will be less painful.

I thought of HGVC also but I liked the number and locations of the Marriott properties better. To each his own though, the points system could be more flexible. In 7 years, we have never traded outside Marriott......yet.

 

[Dean]

Dean WOW you really have been giving me good info and things to think about. Lots of info and I assume it will take me 6-12 months to decide what is best for the family. Just looking at other TS the Marriott does seem to be pretty solid. I have been dissecting Hilton and although I like the point system, it seems they use mostly affiliates. Right now Marriott Desert Springs seems to be going pretty cheap on EBay, but I have to research the ROFR. Looks like most if not all Marriott properties trade well but the common theme I see for Marriott is they all are very nice. Looks like you can't go wrong with any resort you decide to stay.

I'm in a similar situation as Carol as I'm "stalking" and learning about resales. I'm looking at the Marriott to be the relaxation type vacation to just hang out and experience some of the "local" activities. We would probably go to a different place each year as they all have a certain appeal........but do think we would tend to want to ski every other year. That is the hard part deciding where to own but we are in the position to take my time.....kids are real young - thus adding to making DVC a no brain choice for us as we (the adults) enjoy hanging out a Disney. I'm sure we will add on here and there to DVC to get bigger accomidations at OKW but I'm starting to see from looking at other TS that DVC is a prem price.

Sorry long winded but thanks for your insight

MOST Marriott's are nice but they all vary and often far more than does DVC. But if you stick with the newer Marriott built options, you will be OK. Look at fees, consider the lockoff, possibly buy something you might use part of the time. IF you just want somewhere to relax it really doesn't matter much where you own as you can easily trade to those type resorts. I wouldn't go below Gold unless you will specifically use it and are very flexible including you can travel other than during school breaks.