RENT: Don't Buy

That's right.

There's an article about 3 Clever Ways to Save Money on Family Vacations. Amidst several other pieces of excellent advice there's the following suggestion:

"Rent a Timeshare

This option, I estimate, saves us anywhere from 30% to 50% off traditional resort accommodations.

We not only save money, but our lodging is more comfortable and roomy than typical hotel rooms. We typically enjoy a large, two-bedroom unit with a spacious kitchen. Ordering take-out food and making easy meals stretches our dollars.

You can find thousands of rentals posted by timeshare owners..."

It's true. Many timeshare owners are unable to vacation when they want, but they're still forced to pay for unused timeshare weeks. In order to minimize the financial loss they rent out the week for one-time-only bargain basement prices.

It might seem exploitative, but it's the way of the industry. Those who buy timeshares often regret it, leaving others -- such as prospective renters -- to benefit from unfortunate circumstances.

The people have spoken -- Don't Buy, RENT.