The best plan is to plan ahead. Don't expect to buy a resale from TTS and expect to go on vacation next month. I think you need to remember a few points when going into a resale, TTS or with someone else:
1) Buy where you want to stay. Most DVCer's will echo this idea.
2) Because some of the resorts fill up quick during particular times, you'll want to take advantage of the 11 month window for your home resort.
3) Just to make sure you get exactly the type of contract you need or want, give yourself about 4 to 5 months to make sure there's plenty of time for closing. Part of that time is Disney getting you into their system.
So start the process about 15 to 16 months before you actually want to go on your first stay. This gives you plenty of time to plan ahead, pick the rightand even get a better deal on a contract that may be stripped for most people, but meets your needs. This will also cover any delays due to Disney deciding to pick up that "great deal" on your resale contract.