Inherit Timeshare? Your Practical Guide

Someone in your family passed away and left you a timeshare. It can feel like an unexpected gift or a hidden burden. The first thing to know is that you have choices. You don’t have to keep the weeks if they don’t fit your life.

First Steps When You Inherit a Timeshare

Grab the paperwork. Look for the deed, the contract, and any recent statements. Those documents tell you where the property is, how many weeks you own, and what fees you owe. If the original owner didn’t leave the papers, contact the resort’s management office and ask for a copy. They can usually pull the record with the unit number.

Next, check the maintenance fees. Timeshares charge an annual fee for upkeep, even if you never use the week. Find out how much is due this year and whether any past fees are overdue. Knowing the cost helps you decide if it’s worth holding onto.

Talk to a solicitor who knows property law. Inheritance can bring tax questions and transfer paperwork that varies by region. A short consultation can save you from making a mistake that costs money later.

Your Options: Keep, Sell, Rent or Exit

If the location is a place you love and the fees fit your budget, keeping the timeshare might be easy. You can book the weeks, trade them through a points system, or use a third‑party exchange to travel elsewhere.

When the fees feel too high or the week doesn’t match your schedule, selling is an option. List the timeshare on reputable resale sites, or work with a broker who specializes in timeshares. Be realistic about price – you’ll likely get less than the original purchase price, but you can still recover some money.

Renting out the week is another way to offset fees. Many resorts allow owners to rent their weeks on a short‑term basis. Post the availability on the resort’s own rental platform or on general vacation‑rental sites. Make sure you understand the resort’s rules about sub‑letting.

If you want out completely, look for a “deed‑back” or “exit” program. Some resorts will take the timeshare back for a fee, while third‑party companies offer to negotiate an exit. Research any company carefully – read reviews and check for BBB accreditation – because scams are common.

Whatever you choose, set a timeline. Don’t let the fees pile up while you decide. Write down the costs, the deadlines for paying, and the steps needed for each option. Having a clear plan keeps the process from feeling overwhelming.

In short, inheriting a timeshare isn’t a death sentence. With the right paperwork, a quick chat with a lawyer, and a realistic look at costs, you can turn the situation into a small profit, a vacation perk, or a clean break. Take one step at a time, and you’ll find the path that works best for you.