Scammers Target Timeshare Owners

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Consumer Alert Summary

You get a call out of the blue: someone claiming to be a real estate agent says they have a buyer lined up for your timeshare. They seem legitimate — they know your name, the resort, even the unit — and they just need a small upfront fee to seal the deal. Unfortunately, this is a common timeshare resale scam targeting U.S. owners, especially those with foreign properties. What starts as a modest request quickly escalates into demands for thousands of dollars — and in the end, there is no buyer and no refund.

Scammers use public records and convincing scripts to prey on vulnerable owners, particularly older adults who may no longer use their timeshare. They often impersonate licensed agents or pose as resale companies to build credibility. The truth? Legitimate sales never require large upfront payments, and no one can guarantee a buyer in a market that is notoriously slow-moving.

Protect yourself:

• Never pay upfront for resale assistance.

• Verify the identity and license status of anyone offering to sell your timeshare.

• Research complaints and reviews before you engage.

• Be cautious of resale prices that seem too good to be true.