While there are many genuine and attractive options for timeshare ownership in Mexico, it is important to be aware of timeshare scams to protect yourself. It is true that there are many satisfied and happy timeshare owners although some people have had bad experiences. The upside to owning a Mexico timeshare is it gives you a chance to plan ahead for luxury vacations at a variety of beautiful resorts within Mexico. However, it is important to be aware of timeshare scams as there are individuals and companies out there who make a living off convincing innocent timeshare owners they are legitimate consulting companies, when in fact they are only out to scam them. Continue reading below so you will know what Mexico timeshare scams to avoid.
Mexico Timeshare Scams
In the past, scams related to Mexico timeshares typically occurred by fraudulent timeshare companies trying to illegally sell timeshares that they did not own, or timeshares that did not even exist. However, we now see a different approach being taken by scammers.This new approach is focused on current Mexico timeshare owners and the scam happens when fraudulent services to resell or cancel an existing timeshare are offered. Most scammers claim they can sell your old timeshare, but only if you purchase a new timeshare with their company at the same time or pay an upfront fee. Often times they claim they already have a willing buyer who wants to purchase your old timeshare. Beware of any companies who offer these type of resell services so you can protect yourself and keep your hard earned money safe.
Consultant Scam
In recent news, the American Resort Development Association (ARDA) announced to timeshare owners that timeshare scammers were falsely using their name in order to scam genuine timeshare owners. Operating as “Resort Consulting Advocates”, this fraudulent company took advantage of several timeshare owners claiming they had interested buyers for timeshare properties that they wanted to sell, when in fact they only charged them an upfront fee and then disappeared. “Resort Consulting Advocates” even went as far to create fraudulent sale documents and contracts with a “100% guarantee” that the sale would go through, but the sad reality was that no buyer truly existed.
Resell Fraud
“Resort Consulting Advocates” is only one of many timeshare scam companies presenting themselves as legitimate companies in hopes of scamming timeshare owners. To avoid getting caught, these dishonest companies regularly change their company name to confuse their victims. Ensure you are extremely cautious if you are contacted by a timeshare resale, rental or cancellation company as it is very likely that the company is run by scammers. The best way to protect your timeshare investment is to only deal directly with the timeshare company you purchased your Mexico timeshare from. Any concerns or complaints regarding your timeshare ownership should be directed to a staff member, and never involve a third party who is most likely a scammer in disguise.
Have You Been Scammed?
Do you believe you have you been scammed and you are not sure what is the next step to take? To begin with, immediately contact your timeshare company and alert them of the situation by providing all details and information. By doing so, you are helping genuine timeshare owners so they can avoid becoming scam victims themselves. It is also a good idea to contact the local authorities and file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. If we all work together, we can prevent other innocent timeshare victims from falling prey to the same type of Mexico timeshare scam.
To conclude, never, ever pay an upfront fee to a third party offering Mexico timeshare resale assistance. Research any company that offers this kind of services as the majority are Mexico timeshare scammers. Always go directly to the company you bought your legitimate timeshare from, and never involved a third party. If you follow these safety measures, you will be safe from Mexico timeshare scammers and can enjoy your beloved timeshare investment as you deserve.
