A vacation ownership purchase is a significant commitment, not only financially, but also in terms of your future vacations. You want to be sure that the resort or club you choose will provide many pleasant vacations for years to come, and can evolve with your lifestyle. Here are some important tips to consider when making a purchase:

Buy to use. Buy because you plan to use the vacation ownership in the future. Consider your vacation ownership purchase an investment in future vacations, not an investment for financial profit.

Choose a vacation that fits your lifestyle. Think carefully about what you value most in a vacation and travel experience, then explore the wide variety of vacation ownership options available and choose those that best suit your needs.

Visit a timeshare resort. Take a tour of a local resort. Many resorts offer mini-vacations that provide opportunities to experience the resort firsthand.

Read all documents carefully and understand what, exactly, you are being offered. Is it a fee-simple or right-to-use plan, fixed or floating time, or a vacation club, etc.?

Ask if the resort is an ARDA member. Members of ARDA agree to follow the ARDA Code of Standards and Ethics and are expected to adhere to the highest standards of quality and service.

Look for signs of good management, such as well-maintained facilities and resort amenities, good housekeeping, and friendly service.

If you are purchasing primarily to take advantage of the exchange benefit, buy the largest unit in the most popular season. This will give you greater exchange potential.

How is the resort managed? Does the developer manage the resort or is there a management company running it? Does the homeowners association make management decisions? How often do they meet? Is the association budget adequate to maintain the resort and its amenities?

Verify the resort's affiliation with an exchange company and learn about the resort's exchange policies and member benefits.