Understanding The Different Timeshare Ownership Models

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Timeshares have evolved over the years, offering various ownership models to suit the diverse needs and preferences of vacationers.

Most common timeshare types
 fixed-week
 floating-week
 points-based systems.

In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between these timeshare ownership models to help prospective buyers better understand their options.

The Basics Of Timeshares

Timeshares allow usage of a property for a specific set of time, typically one (1) week at a time (7 nights). These weeks are typically referred to as fractional ownership, contract, deeded week or interval.

The simplest way to think about this is, instead of owning an apartment that you occupy all year, that apartment has 52 owners, one owner for each week of the year. (Hence the name Timeshare, you are sharing time).

⭐Most timeshare units are located within a resort, with added features like pools, arcades, golf courses, movie theaters, beach access, ski access and much more.

Advantages of Owning a Fixed Week Timeshare

This could and should be a whole article in and of it self.

In short, you get to utilize a unit, in a (probably) desirable location, with desirable amenities without having to worry about the maintenance or upkeep of the unit, nor have to worry about the cost of owning an apartment year round and either renting it out or not using it.

 Disadvantages of Owning a Fixed Week Timeshare

Again, this could and should be a whole article.

There can be many downsides to owning a timeshare for sure.  Costly to purchase, on going costs (maintenance fees) that seem to sure do  increase every year. Resale of the timeshare is not lucrative (they shouldn’t been seen as an investment). Possibility that the quality of the property and service decreases.

It is vitally important to do your research prior to purchasing a timeshare.

 We shall carry on and look at the different models of timeshare ownership

Fixed Week Timeshares

Fixed-week timeshares allocate specific weeks of the year to owners, who have the right to use the property during their designated week annually.

That means ownership is deed to a specific week, and every year (or usage period) usage is the exact same week.

⭐Check out our timeshare calendar Here (see what weeks coordinate with what set of dates)

Advantages of Owning a Fixed Week Timeshare

Predictability: Owners have certainty about their vacation time, knowing exactly when they can use the property each year.

 Disadvantages of Owning a Fixed Week Timeshare

Limited Flexibility: Owners may find it challenging to change their vacation dates or destinations, as their week is fixed.

Potential for Unused Time: If owners are unable to use their designated week, they may lose the opportunity for that year.

Now there are some different kinds of Fixed Week ownership, not all are every year (annual), they can be:

     Bi Annual (Every 2 years), Even Years or Odd Years
     Tri Annual (Every 3 years)

You also have the unit assignment to consider.  Some properties are fixed unit (Same unit every year, ex unit 616).

Others are floating unit, you are guaranteed the unit type (2 bedroom, 1 bedroom etc), but the exact unit is not know until your arrival.

This could include view type, or might just be location of the unit (floor number).

Every property is different, some might have blocks of floors, or view types.  It can get very in-depth and sometimes confusing.

We will explore unit assignments, types and examples in future article.

Floating Week Timeshares

Floating-week timeshares offer owners more flexibility in choosing their vacation dates within a specified season or time frame.

That means every usage period (yearly, every other year etc), you choose what week you want to visit, within the season you own.

In the future we will do longer article on seasons and the different ones available.

The basics are, every property is different.  Some properties floating season may be weeks 1-52, or 1-50.  Others might have multiple seasons, like Diamond weeks, Platinum weeks, silver weeks, sport weeks.  The names vary.

Simply put, whatever season you buy into, that is the season you will book into and have to request every time to use your time share.

⭐Check out our timeshare calendar Here (see what weeks coordinate with what set of dates)

Advantages of Owning a Floating Week Timeshare

Flexible Booking: Owners have the freedom to schedule vacations based on their availability and preferences within the designated period.

Potential for Variety: Owners can choose different vacation dates each year, allowing for exploration of various destinations or seasons.

 Disadvantages of Owning a Floating Week Timeshare

Booking Challenges: Popular dates may fill up quickly, requiring owners to plan and book well in advance to secure their preferred vacation time.


Availability Constraints: Owners may face limitations during peak seasons or holidays, depending on demand and resort capacity. (I am looking at you Spring Break and Christmas

For super popular dates (Christmas) many Timeshares will sell specific use periods for those in order to provide a bit more reliability for owners.

Again with Floating Week Timeshare ownership, not all are every year (annual), they can be:

 Bi Annual (Every 2 years), Even Years or Odd Years

 Tri Annual (Every 3 years)

Floating week properties are almost always (I don’t know of an exception to this rule), floating unit properties, you are guaranteed the unit type (2 bedroom, 1 bedroom etc), but the exact unit is not known until your arrival. 

This could include view type, or might just be location of the unit (floor number).

When we do our article on unit assignments we will update this section with a link to it.

Points Based Timeshares

Points-based timeshares allocate owners a certain number of points annually, which they can use to book accommodations at various properties within the timeshare network.

Owners timeshare purchase is allocated a specific number of points, which can be redeemed for accommodations at different resorts or during different times of the year, depending on the point value assigned to each booking option.

⭐Points based systems vary based on provider (Hyatt, Marriott, Wyndham, RCI) etc.  Here we seek to give a brief (very brief) overview and will be very general.  In another article we look at points based systems more in depth, and we will explore what each Timeshare System has to offer their points based ownership.

Advantages of Owning a Points Based Timeshare

Flexibility and Variety: Owners can use their points to book vacations at multiple properties within the network, choosing from a range of destinations, accommodation types, and travel dates.

Customization: Points can often be used for additional amenities, such as upgrades, dining experiences, or excursions, allowing for a tailored vacation experience.

 Disadvantages of Owning a Points Based Timeshare

Point Management: Owners must understand how to maximize the value of their points and navigate booking systems to secure desired accommodations.

Point Devaluation: Changes in the points system or resort policies may impact the value and purchasing power of points over time, requiring owners to stay informed about updates and potential adjustments.

Here again, Points Based Timeshares offer not only every year (annual), they can be:

 Bi Annual (Every 2 years), Even Years or Odd Years

 Tri Annual (Every 3 years)

In Conclusion

Fixed-week, floating-week, and points-based timeshares each offer distinct advantages and considerations for prospective buyers.

Understanding the differences between these ownership models is crucial for making informed decisions that align with individual preferences, travel habits, and lifestyle needs. Whether seeking predictability, flexibility, or customization, there is a timeshare option to suit a variety of vacation preferences and priorities.

By carefully evaluating the features and nuances of each timeshare model, individuals can choose the ownership structure that best suits their desired vacation experience.

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