The Real Deal on Timeshare Promotions

We all know someone who knows someone who got a stellar vacation package after attending a timeshare promotional meeting. But do these incentive programs actually pay out? And how do you know where to find the best deals? More importantly, just why are these pushers willing to give something away for nothing?

Statistically, the more bodies you can pack in a room for a sales presentation, the better your chances are at selling a product. After an initial meeting with a sales representative, you may be invited to participate in a free or discounted "trial vacation", usually a three-day duration, to test out the proposed property. If the timeshare property is under construction, you may be offered a free stay at another hotel.

Some companies require that both spouses be present at the pitch to redeem the offer. Many timeshare gigs will require income verification--it's a bit difficult to envision unemployed college students as legitimate, prospective timeshare owners.

These tips will be invaluable to you as you embark upon your free vacation quest:

1. You are under no obligation to purchase a property after visiting, regardless of what owners make you believe. You might be required to take a short tour while visiting; so if it will cramp your itinerary, know before you go.

2. Inquire about vacation deposits--add everything up first to make sure it's actually a deal. Deposits might be refundable or not, it's up to you to find out.

3. If vacations aren't your thing, you might be interested in other promotions offered for attending the talk. Some goodies include restaurant coupons and certificates, grocery shopping money, and small electronics.

4. Make a reservation ahead of time. Occasionally presentations fill up, so if you've found your perfect destination, it's best to reserve a seat. You can also ask how long the presentation will last--definitely bring snacks.

5. Leave all cash, checks, and credit cards at home. These folks are good at what they do and you will be subjected to every psychological trick in their playbook.

6. Before signing anything make absolute certain that there are no catches. You don't want to accidentally agree to a contract.

7. Seek out large companies like RCI and Interval International. Where the term "free" is tossed around with abandon, so are your credit card digits. Never surrender your personal information without serious investigation of the company.

8. If the lure to buy is irresistible, remember that you can still purchase reduced timeshares from suckers who paid way too much for them.

9. You may not need to sit through a presentation to score a free weekend. Many companies are going straight for the experience first without requiring potential buyers to be conditioned for an entire Saturday.

All these warnings aside, the discounted vacation still remains a huge incentive for travelers who want a getaway for less. The most lucrative advice for any timeshare presentation is to hold out as long as you can. Pitchmen usually up the ante as the gig progresses.