Potential buyers typically face a mix of upfront point purchases and ongoing maintenance fees. The total cost is driven by the number of points, annual dues, and how often the timeshare is used or rented. This guide presents cost ranges in USD and clarifies where the money goes.
Assumptions: region, program tier, point level, and annual usage affect total cost.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront Purchase (Points) | $20,000 | $40,000 | $60,000 | One-time cost; varies by point tier and location |
| Annual Maintenance & Club Dues | $1,000 | $1,600 | $2,000 | Includes upkeep, resort fees, and exchange platform access |
| Booking Fees & Exchanges | $100 | $250 | $350 | Per-use or per-exchange charges depending on plan |
| Taxes & Transfer Costs | $500 | $1,000 | $2,000 | Regional and state variations apply |
Overview Of Costs
The cost spectrum combines an upfront purchase with ongoing annual dues and occasional exchange fees. The most significant drivers are point level, unit location, and expiration terms. Upfront costs are a one-time investment, while maintenance and exchange-related charges recur annually or per use.
Cost Breakdown
Table below shows typical components and their ranges for Marriott Vacation Club ownership.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront Purchase (Points) | $20,000 | $40,000 | $60,000 | Point bundles, location, and seasonality affect price |
| Annual Maintenance & Club Dues | $1,000 | $1,600 | $2,000 | Includes property upkeep and access to exchanges |
| Booking/Exchange Fees | $100 | $250 | $350 | Per reservation or annual allotment depending on plan |
| Taxes & Transfer Costs | $500 | $1,000 | $2,000 | State taxes and processing fees may apply |
| Delivery/Disposal | $0 | $0 | $0 | No typical delivery costs for ownership transfers |
| Contingency | $500 | $1,000 | $2,000 | Buffer for price fluctuations or enhancements |
Assumptions: region, tier, and annual usage impact totals.
What Drives Price
Price is driven by point quantity, unit size, and location, plus annual dues and exchange access. A higher-point bundle unlocks larger unit stays and peak-season availability but increases upfront and ongoing costs. Regional tax rates and transfer fees also affect the total investment.
Factors That Affect Price
Key price drivers include point tiers, resort location, and seasonal demand. For example, beachfront or popular city centers typically command higher upfront costs and higher annual dues. Seasonal variability can alter trade value and upgrade opportunities within the program.
Ways To Save
Strategies to reduce the cost include choosing a lower point tier initially and leveraging lower-demand seasons. Bundling a smaller upfront purchase with a longer amortization period can lower annual dues. Consider resales or promotional offers when available, and plan exchanges during off-peak times to maximize value.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region with notable gaps between coastal and inland markets. In the Northeast, upfront costs may trend higher due to demand, while the Midwest often presents more moderate entry points. The West Coast can skew higher for premium properties; the South may offer similarly strong value with different seasonal pricing.
- Coastal Urban: Upfront $40,000–$60,000; annual $1,600–$2,100
- Midwest/Suburban: Upfront $25,000–$45,000; annual $1,000–$1,800
- South/Interior: Upfront $30,000–$50,000; annual $1,200–$1,900
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical quotes and cost dynamics.
Assumptions: region, unit size, and usage pattern.
Scenario A — Basic
Unit: modest two-bedroom, mid-tier resort. Hours: standard usage. Upfront: $22,000; Annual: $1,200; Exchange: $120 per use.
Scenario B — Mid-Range
Unit: larger three-bedroom, preferred location. Upfront: $38,000; Annual: $1,600; Exchange: $230 per use.
Scenario C — Premium
Unit: luxury unit, top resort, prime season access. Upfront: $58,000; Annual: $2,000; Exchange: $350 per use.
Payment Schedule & Ownership Costs
Costs typically occur as upfront purchase, then annual maintenance dues plus periodic booking fees. Prospective buyers should map cash flow across the first five years to assess the budget impact and opportunity costs of alternative vacation arrangements.
Maintenance & Ownership Costs
Maintenance fees tend to rise over time due to inflation and property upgrades. A 3–5% annual growth rate is common for budgeting, though contracts may cap increases. Long-term cost outlook should include potential upgrades or address changes in usage patterns.
Seasonality & Price Trends
Prices can spike during peak vacation windows or special promotions. Booking demand and resort enhancements can push variables upward in high-demand markets. Off-season pricing may offer better value for exchange availability and loyalty program benefits.
Permits, Codes & Rebates
Local rules may affect transfer costs and taxes. Some regions offer incentives or rebates on timeshare upgrades or energy-efficiency improvements, though such programs vary widely by state and municipality. Budget for possible legal fees or documentation costs if a transfer occurs.
FAQ
Frequently asked pricing questions cover upfront ranges, annual dues, and exchange fees. Typical inquiries include whether resale value offsets cost, how many points are needed for a desired stay, and how maintenance costs compare to alternative vacation options.