Many prospective buyers are stuck when it comes to deciding what important factors that one should consider when buying a timeshare. The buyers today are much more informed than the buyers of few years back. They are more knowledgeable about what they are buying and have done their homework before taking a major step.

If you are planning to buy timeshare through a broker, make sure that he is licensed. Also, find out his reputation in handling timeshares and the success rate. And do not hesitate to ask any questions related to your timeshare. Some of the good questions to ask are:

* What is the maintenance fee of the resort and do they keep raising it every year. If yes, how much? * What are the chances of getting a best timeshares like in a desired week? * By what date you should make the reservation at the earliest? * Are there any extra benefits accompanying your timeshare? * Do the timeshare company has bonus week program? * Can you exchange or trade your timeshare without joining an exchange company?

Be sure to ask about the point system. You may have to pay more if they have a points system. Ask the broker if this works out to be reasonable or if you would be better off just buying a resale timeshare. The price may be higher if certain factors are at work. Is it for a particular week that is in high demand? Is the location in high demand? Is it a larger unit? Also, the reputation of the timeshare resort is often a factor.

Try to go see the unit in person before buying. Sometimes the description is not the reality. Or, if you can't go see it, try to have a friend or family member who may live near the unit go see it. Also, try to get references from the neighbors. Ask what they think of the management and amenities. You may also want to ask them:

* What they think of the resort? * Time since they have been vacationing in this resort? * Are dates easy get without much problems? * Is the management company good and are they satisfied? * How about the maintenance fees and other fees? Do they have a good record or they raise it too frequently? * Is it easy to make reservations and exchanges? * Are developers planning on improving the property in near future?

Online auction sites can help you do your homework and find out the prices in the area you are looking at buying.

Keep in mind that if you are buying a resale timeshare unit, it should be as cheap as half the price of the new timeshare unit that developers sell. If you are buying a new timeshare through a timeshare company, read everything carefully in fine print before signing any contracts. When buying a resale timeshare, ask the seller why they are selling it because there can be an underlying problem like problems with the management company or inconvenience. This way you can get a feel of the potential problems that you may also have to face and can decide whether you may be able to handle it or not. Also, make sure that there are no past dues on maintenance fees and property taxes, as these will add up your cost. If you take care of all these important factors, you should be able to make a smarter decision in buying a timeshare.