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The FTC and state consumer protection agencies have shut down dishonest timeshare resellers for bilking timeshare owners out of millions of dollars. If you’re selling a timeshare, listen carefully for the promise of lots of money quickly and a request for an upfront fee. Those are two key signs of timeshare resale scam — and someone you don’t want to do business with.     

In one recent case, Vacation Property Services claimed to represent big-name companies eager to buy timeshares for business travel and events. The company guaranteed timeshare owners hefty returns if they moved quickly on the offer. But first, the company said the owner had to pay from $500 to $2,000, via credit card, in “registration” and other fees to seal the deal.

Timeshare Resale Scams Infographic

Timeshare Resale Scams
Infographic

The company’s promises of ready buyers, fast sales, big profits and money-back guarantees turned out to be lies. What’s more, the timeshare owners were stuck with debt on their credit cards from paying the “fee” after the company told them that the sale would be complete — and that they’d have their money — by the time the credit card bill came.

If you own a timeshare, question any offers to help you resell it. Be skeptical of companies that:

  • claim the market in your area is “hot” and that they’re “overwhelmed” with buyer requests
  • say they have buyers ready to purchase your timeshare — or promise to sell your timeshare within a specific time
  • guarantee you’ll get big returns on your resale
  • require you to pay fees upfront — even if there’s the promise of a “money-back guarantee”
  • don’t provide a contract — or provide a contract that doesn’t accurately reflect conversations you had   

Read about buying and selling a timeshare, or check out our infographic to see how timeshare resale scams typically work.

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The purpose of this blog and its comments section is to inform readers about Federal Trade Commission activity, and share information to help them avoid, report, and recover from fraud, scams, and bad business practices. Your thoughts, ideas, and concerns are welcome, and we encourage comments. But keep in mind, this is a moderated blog. We review all comments before they are posted, and we won’t post comments that don’t comply with our commenting policy. We expect commenters to treat each other and the blog writers with respect.

  • We won’t post off-topic comments, repeated identical comments, or comments that include sales pitches or promotions.
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  • We won’t post threats, defamatory statements, or suggestions or encouragement of illegal activity.
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We don't edit comments to remove objectionable content, so please ensure that your comment contains none of the above. The comments posted on this blog become part of the public domain. To protect your privacy and the privacy of other people, please do not include personal information. Opinions in comments that appear in this blog belong to the individuals who expressed them. They do not belong to or represent views of the Federal Trade Commission.

Distressed Leo
May 30, 2020
We were scammed by aGeorgia based company using the name Johnson Real Estate Property Sales LLC & AustellRealty Partners LLC. The first took our money and we couldn't recoup. As retired persons we were hoping to pay off our debts and live simply. Beware of any persons Phoning you to sell ANY timeshares or holiday properties. The only trusted way to sell these types of property is to initiate it yourself!! Talk to a lawyer or realtor in your hometown before agreeing to any sales. Take it from me!
Frank
June 03, 2020
Does anyone know anything about a company named. Reality Link LTD
Liza
June 18, 2020

In reply to by Frank

Hi Frank, I got a call from a guy at Realty Link LTD the other day, asking if I wanted to sell my timeshare. Of course I was suspicious, but would love to offload the timeshare, so I asked him if he could pay me what I think its worth. I hesitantly gave him my email. Today I received an email (very poorly worded and bad grammar) stating that they would like to buy my timeshare for a lot of money, they just need to see my contract. Is that your experience?
Nmendez
July 12, 2020

In reply to by Frank

I have but not sure if there legit. I was told if they call you it means they there not. Also they asked to pay for permit since time share is international. However they will be refunded by the buyer later on. It sound too good to be true.
Dale
June 08, 2020
Got a call from international properties unlimited offering me $ 70,000.00 for our timeshare in Mexico. I asked him to send me a e- mail on his company but have not received any response. The number given is 1-678-279-5732 in Georgia and what l found out is they are not part of the BBB even after being asked to provide proof of there license etc. Look on BBB Georgia for for details.
Joy N
June 11, 2020
Dealing with timeshare resale in Mexico. Companies Realty Link in Chicago and Escrow Corp in Philadelphia. Any comments?
Jay R
June 18, 2020

In reply to by Joy N

It is the same as all of the others you are reading on here....they are asking for funds to create a foreign tax id to receive the funds from escrow and approximately $4,000 to do so. It will end the same as all of the others and fits the mold to a "T" based upon everything your reading in the blog.
Mac
October 07, 2020

In reply to by Joy N

we were contacted by realty link Chicago, to sell our timeshare - the value they quoted they could sell it for is 6 times what we paid for it. They say there are no charges to us until the time share is sold , and then 5% commission is due after we get the money. Sounds too good to be true!
Cali
December 02, 2020

In reply to by Mac

Same approach. Realty Link is saying their client, based in Mexico, is purchasing a "majority interest" (roughly 450 contracts) in Diamond Resorts. They too use Escrow Corporation in PA. While I so much want this to be true it sounds way to similar to all the other scams listed here -- right down to the last detail. Gotta love the internet. So glad I read it before proceeding. Reminds me of the JT Wallenbrach fiasco which was basically a ponzi. If these people would put their efforts towards real work they would create value in the marketplace and actually make money rather than getting over on somebody.
Radiantblue
June 15, 2020
Has anyone heard of transaction real estate LLC in Houston. There is actual website and they have a local location. They said they are trying to purchase the hotel for an event and are looking to purchase my weeks. They seem like a legit real estate firm as they do other things than just timeshares. Any insight would be helpful
Lbdell
June 16, 2020
We were recently contacted by 118 international realty Llc. Trying to purchase our UVC contract for way more than we paid last year. It all looked/sounded legit until today when they told me we would have to pay $3000+ to get a Mexican ID to get our funds. We have a fake statement from citibanamex showing they’ve deposited funds. Our “broker” gave me a phone number to call to verify the account. We didn’t bother because the branch listed on the account statement didn’t exist. They did make a very real looking statement. We did sign a letter of intent but that’s it. It seemed shady from the get go but we entertained the idea until now. I have contacted UVC and will pursue legal action. It was bad enough that we made a poor decision to buy the contract to begin with but i would assume it is illegal for them to sell information for the purposes of committing fraud. More to come on this. These guys are persistent.
916lindsay
June 17, 2020
Has anyone been contact by 118 International Realty? They said they have an investor that needs to purchase my timeshare for write offs. They have sent me a statement from CITIbanamex with funds in the account deposited by seller supposedly, I did call to verify those funds were there. However they want me to pay 3,200 dollars for an SRE tax id to sell my property in Mexico. I pay through escrow - American Land and Title but I am afraid I will pay it and never see anything from it.
rosegd
June 30, 2020
Is International Vacation resort a viable resale for Hilton?Was contacted by "Andrew" Have recieved no communication form them Since Dec.
Jo72M
July 07, 2020
How about coastal marketing they got my husband twice two grand each time now they won’t answer their calls
N. Pesola
July 09, 2020
I have had the same issue with several organizations over the last two years. The latest is from Travel Investors, LLC based in Kentucky.
T. Tice
July 23, 2020

In reply to by N. Pesola

What type of issues have you had from Travel Investors, LLC? They've contacted me saying they have a buyer to buy my timeshare.
cynthia
July 09, 2020
I was scammed by LexMar Realty, LLC supposedly of Indiana. Along with Complete Escrow and title. It is interesting how everyone is aware of their fraud but authorities can not track them down and prosecute.
Almost scammed
July 22, 2020

In reply to by cynthia

OH thanks for this posting I am currently in the midst of what seemed like a legit deal since ALL companies were USA? Once again no money asked for just sign contract. When did they ask for money from you and ck or wire or what? Called closing company they also sounded legit but not BBB? thanks again
Nmendez
July 09, 2020
anyone has any information Realty Link LTD?
Don't use your…
July 10, 2020
Do you know anything about client protection Corp I'm eating out of my timeshare and they have reached out to me but I am skeptical and need help with making a decision thank you
alnz
July 13, 2020
Anyone have any request from Kalota Real Estate in New York...
Vonnie65
July 13, 2020
I got a call from a company called All Access Solution, I was very leary about them in the began I talked with this person first-named of Jon Z Starks. We talked for a long time I even told him that I was not sure about this company but some way he talked me into it. I discussed this with my husband and they stated that all we had to send was 841.00, like dummies we did, I had to constantly call them to find out what was going on when I told them I was going to call the attorney general, they were so nice after a while did not get a call, email or nothing, I was back calling them again never hear anything back but I got there info so I am going to do something about it I have an attorney as well, DO NOT fool with this company if you have a timeshare they will get you as they got us a lesson learned
sparky
July 13, 2020
is LuxuryDestinations.com.ms legit on buying a time share? Been contacted and they are willing to buy my timeshare for 1/2 of what I bought it for.
Sorry in Michigan
July 16, 2020
We were cold called from Air Travel Connections in Atlanta, Georgia. They were working with Atlanta Commercial Title & Escrow. No money up front. Then we had to pay SAT sales tax, then capital gains tax, then income tax. All looked completely legit. Then the courier got held up at the border with Aduana. The broker didnt do the paperwork correctly. Then we tried the wire transfer, that failed and they wanted an insurance bond required by our own FinCEN department. That turned out very sketchy. Now they want to try to use Pan-Americano to deliver straight cash to the bank of escrow company. Of course the beneficiary has to pay for this service--us. All for no money up front or out of pocket with the original agreement, lol! We are now out $15,000.00 and still no prospect of any money coming. We will 'default on the contract' and possibly be sued by injured parties. The 'buyer' will get our resort ownership supposedly. Names of the people are Neil Davis at Air Travel and George Di Mauro at Atlanta Commercial Title and Escrow.
TJ
July 18, 2020
Receive a initial scam offer from Tuniu Mexico to buy Cozumel timeshare for more than original cost. Since first offer have received phone calls from supervisor willing to significantly increase purchase offer.
Stressed Out
July 21, 2020
Has anyone been approached by International Properties ULTD.?
Porsche driver
July 29, 2020
I've had multiple calls from someone in Michigan representing Mayan Palace. They say they want to resell my old timeshare to investors. They want an 8% commission and then they will send me the $43,000. I have talked with their bank and they've sent me paperwork. Anyone else had this experience? I have not used my Mayan Palace timeshare for many years and I just let it lapse. I quit paying the fees. I asked why someone would be willing to pay that kind of money for two bedroom two week timeshare in Acapulco. They informed me that their investors are buying them for a tax write-off and they're buying 60 within the Mayan Palace. Any suggestions?
Ms Bean
September 17, 2020

In reply to by Porsche driver

I also was a past owner with Mayan, and have been called several times by someone who says she is with Brokers Consolodators. Phone number comes from a 702 area code. Based on this website and comments don’t fall for it!!!
Being scammed
October 16, 2020

In reply to by Porsche driver

No matter how attractive the offer is, do not fall for it. When it is too good to be true, it is. Once you fall for it, you will regret. Run away as fast as you can!
CCamarena
August 04, 2020
Has anyone been successful in recovering funds for a“resale” scam? I was contacted by Your Premier Properties, was charged almost $23,000 in different fees, all international wires. They want another $5137 to “release my funds”. Advice? Who can help me recover my money?
David
October 26, 2020

In reply to by FTC Staff

I have the same question FTC Staff. How do we catch the people who took our money? This is a Federal issue because we sent money via bank wire to Mexico. Shouldn't the Mexican government want those taxes? Seem like it all talk but no action on the part of the government to stop this type of activity!
null0
August 04, 2020
I got a call from Property Relief Expert or prp . expert, and basically the same as everyone else. I didn't do it because so good to be true. Sell my 399.00 per week, minimum 3 weeks, they sell it to corporations at 1600, and I get the proceeds via a check through an escrow company. sounded legit, but I even told here this is so good to be true. Has anyone done this, or heard from them, they have an A- BBB rating, but I don't use the BBB to make any financial decision.
once bitten 3 …
August 07, 2020
we got milke out of 72,000 Canadian by The new Tennessee and Title Two investments out of Cancun and mexico city. recently we were attempted to be hit by Boston North End Realty (the real owner hasn't even started his web page yet) and before covid a company out of Manhattan called Cub Alliance said to be located at 23 Madison Ave. New York, NY 10010, USA www. cuballiance. both have been reported to FBI but because I am Canadian I can get no return if the FBI do in fact find and charge these criminals despite tracking them for the authorities.
Wasteoftime
August 05, 2020
Contacted by Illinois Consulting Group and verbatim experience was similar to other comments. No contract except non-binding LOI. Said contract would come, never did. Title Company next who said funds were deposited and just fill out the form. Bottom line. if they want YOU to send THEM funds by wire it is a scam. Run.
WearySoul
August 07, 2020
Has anyone heard of a company Called Brokers consolidated out of Nevada. They have a website that was just registered this year. Their documents were created with searchable names. It's a deal too good to be true. All that needed to be done was to pay 5,100 and we would get 78,000. First the 5,100 was tax, then it was for a licensing fee when the wiretransfer was to an event planner, then it turned into a registration fee. We were given a number to the Ministry of Foreign business, which rang to a promotions company, then a man picked up who after a while said he was not with the government but an agent. On top of this the scammer said thanks to Trump we wouldn't have to pay capital gains tax, or "real" tax to the Mexican Government. Don't believe this scam. The name they are going by are Garry Sun, Sandra Harris, Victor Xue.
Almost Fell For It
August 12, 2020

In reply to by WearySoul

I received a call this week from Brokers Consolidated out of Las Vegas, Nevada. They called to ask if I was willing to sell my timeshare in Cancun Mexico. They knew the name of the resort but looking back at the conversation, I gave them the rest of the information by answering their question. They told me that a sales broker would be in contact with me to discuss the sale price and to get the paperwork started. I received a purchase offer of $47,950 from a broker named Richard C. Huebner by email. The offer is twice what I paid for the timeshare. This was too good to be true so I looked up the address provided for the company in Las Vegas. The so called address is on the second floor of a Strip Mall. The name of the company does not appear anywhere on the building. It is probably a couple of individuals renting a small office in the building to run their scam purchases. I have been receiving calls from a number in Las Vegas that shows up as Potential Scam since I never responded to the email. These guys are good, they get you to provide all the information about your timeshare by asking you questions that show a lot of interest in you and your property. Before you know it, you have given them everything they need to make a purchase offer. Beware and don't fall for this scam. Stay safe.
DORI
September 02, 2020

In reply to by WearySoul

Is there any update n this company. Did they turn out to be legitimate or a scam. Thank you
CJ
September 23, 2020

In reply to by WearySoul

We have been approached by Brokers Consolidated. They are offering to purchase our timeshare in Mexico.
To_Good_To_Be_True
September 29, 2020

In reply to by WearySoul

I was first contacted by a Robert Garcia from Brokers Cosolidated based in Las Vegas, NV and then later by a Nathan Harris. Sandra Harris was allegedly their Finance/Legal person who sent me all of the required documents. I am skeptical and hope if they are not legit, they go to prison for such fraud. The only money they are requesting upfront is the payment for the "registry" for tax purposes for the IRS in Mexico called the SAT.
Scammed?
October 01, 2020

In reply to by To_Good_To_Be_True

Questioning Brokers Consolidated in Las Vegas. I was approached by George Smith and received papers from Sandra Harris regarding the purchase of my vacation time share in Mexico. They are not asking for money up front. Their commission will be paid to them only after the sale has been funded with money held in escrow. This all sounds to good to be true. Anybody out there with some feedback?
Teri
October 21, 2020

In reply to by Scammed?

Don’t continue with Brokers Consolidated of Las Vegas. I’ve dealt with Christian Marston (broker), Sandra Harris (legal department), Garry Sun (senior managing partner), George Smith and had documents signed by Victor Xue. I paid the SAT registration fee but stopped at the IVA taxes even though I was sent a bank statement showing the money in a bank account under my name. I’ve checked Nevada real estate board for individual licenses (none found) and called the building where they are supposedly located. I was told they do not have offices there and the building managers have received numerous calls looking for them. I am now being threatened with having to appear in court, both in Nevada and Mexico, if I don’t pay $25,000+. Not going to pay any more and doubt this will go any further. Just be wary of signing any documents and paying any fees upfront.
dmakale
August 14, 2020
Has anyone heard of Global Vacation Trading Company, Nashville, TN? They are offering more than we paid for our timeshare, apparently they are buying up timeshares for resale to a "corporation" and the 6% commission comes out of the sale price at the end of the transaction. Their website seems genuine, and the broker's license is valid, but I would like to hear from anyone who has done business with them
icolon
December 08, 2020

In reply to by dmakale

Did you proceed with this company? They have shown me an escrow account with Bank of America. Everything looks legit, but I’m skeptical.
JLShaw
August 15, 2020
Has any one been scammed from Realty Consultants Incorporated and Escrow Recovery both in New York. We have a timeshare in Mexico and never thought about selling till we were contacted by Realty if you were interested in selling. The number they did gave us was close to the amount that we paid for our timeshare. We thought we did our homework, right down to calling the lawyer in Mexico that was working on our behave. Paid for the Certificate Naturalization and to get the Taxpayer identification number. Now of course they want more money for taxes over 10,000 dollars. And no we are not going to do it. We just feel so violated and taken. So has anyone tried to get their money back and if yes how and where did you go through.
Got scammed
August 16, 2020
No matter how good the offer sounds, don’t get fooled by it. There are fees followed by fees even though no fees up front. They are timeshare scammers out to get your money.
Matthew
August 17, 2020
Anyone heard of "Transaction Real Estate, LLC"? I believe they're out of Katy TX. They cold-called me and claim they have a buyer who wants to purchase my weeks. I think it's probably another scam.
John
September 26, 2020

In reply to by Matthew

Very interesting. They made what seemed a credible offer to rent weeks from me, then a "financial advisor firm" in Denver was included who presented an "earnest money contract." Things sounded weird, though I never figured out their angle and the purpose of the fraud, but when I was able to verify that there was on such firm at the address they claimed, I dropped the matter. NB the name of the Colorado firm was "Schneider Associates" or something similar.
juliol
August 17, 2020
Does anyone have any experience dealing with Nationalresottitle company? They are associated with Vacation Experts?
PG1969
August 18, 2020
Received an e-mail from Intergroup Travel located in Mexico that wants to purchase my timeshare in Las Vegas. They made me an offer and wants me to "click" on the box saying I'm interested. Can find anything on Intergroup Travel, other than their website. Anybody familiar with this company? Sounds too good to be true.
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