What is the right time for timeshare exchange? Some of my friends tell me that I have to look out for exchanges about a year in advance. At the same time, some of my other friends also tell me that I can get GREAT deals at the last minute, closer to the exchange date. I don't know what to do? Which side do I take? Could some of you share your experiences/knowledge with me? When should you start looking out for exchanges? I'd love to get some comments from you people. Thanks a ton in advance.
Thank you Shelia and John Rus for your comments. After hearing your comments, I feel it's better to book the week in advance than to wait for the best deal until the last minute. I'm looking to get something in the Caribbean and it seems like it will be highly in demand. So, I'll better get started. Thanks again for your time.
Sam
You can exchange your timeshare about a year or more in advance. It is always good to start early, as you will have some good options to choose from. Closer to the exchange date, it will be mostly (though not all the time) like picking up what everyone else has left out. Especially, if you look for a good resort in a prime location, then you have to get started as soon as possible. I've heard from my friends that some popular resorts in RCI get booked about two years in advance. As far as last minute GREAT deals are concerned, it's something that I can't comment on, since I've never dealt with that situation before.
What I personally feel is you should start looking out for an exchange well in advance. This increases your chances of getting the week you are looking for. Sure, you can get some great deals at the last minute, but not necessarily on your favorite timeshare. Quite often, you may have to settle for whatever is left unreserved at that point of time. So, I would always advise to reserve your week as early as possible. This holds 100% true if it is a red week in a prime location.