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It can be confusing for a starter to decide from where to buy his first timeshare: from the resale market or directly from a timeshare resort or a developer? It can be a hard decision to make with both having its own advantages and disadvantages.

Buying timeshares in the resale market like auction websites or advertising through classifieds is a recent concept compared to buying from developers which has been there since its inception. Internet has brought everything to the doorsteps of the people and thus benefiting the timeshare market also. Timeshare auction websites provide prospective buyers with more information on the property and also wide variety of buying options.

The scenario was totally different a decade ago when the buyers used to buy timeshares through timeshare presentations hosted by timeshare developers. The decisions taken to buy timeshares were mostly based on one's impulse rather than research and analysis. But with the advent of internet auction sites, a user has more powerful tools to research the prices in advance even if he is going to a presentation. The buyer can make a more informed choice today than previously.

Another nice thing about participating in the resale market is that it avoids the nightmare of a droning timeshare talk. The unfortunate herded into such evenings are guaranteed to be locked up for at least an hour and a half. Once the pitch is completed, the individuals who were promised a "free gift" are subjected to the nastiest of hard sells. Far too often, people sign an agreement just to escape from the evening.

Consider the cost comparison: a developer's timeshare offer includes the cost of advertisement, presentation, free gifts etc. which is whopping 40% of the cost of the timeshare and sometimes this exceeds the cost of the timeshare resale. On the other hand, if one buys a timeshare through a resale market, one can buy the timeshare 30% to 50% cheaper. Also buying through a resale market offers you more choice and freedom to select your desired unit. You know that you are getting the best price. It is definitely worth saving thousands of dollars by buying a resale.

There are however, a number of reasons why buying from a developer is a good idea. Many well known companies have become involved in the business of timeshare. These include Marriot, Disney and Hilton. If you choose to buy through a resale market there is always a chance that your investment might not be secure. Timeshare developers spend an enormous amount of money creating timeshares and so have worked hard to build a good reputation in order to turn a profit. Not only this, they make sure to provide the latest and greatest amenities, something unheard of in the resale market unless the unit you choose to buy is of fairly new construction. Developers also often offer incentives in order to gain potential customers such as free weeks, car rentals and even ticket discounts. These benefits are also never seen in the resale market. Lastly, developers offer a variety of financing options that you may not be able to get if you choose to buy in a resale market.

If you decide to buy from a developer, their listings are usually featured on the same auction website as timeshare resales, so all the options you will want to review are located in one place.