6 Major Timeshare Fee Categories
Understanding what you're really paying for
$800 - $2,500/year
The largest ongoing cost. Covers property upkeep, utilities, landscaping, and common area maintenance.
$500 - $5,000+
Unexpected charges for major repairs, renovations, or emergency maintenance.
$100 - $800/year
Annual property tax on your timeshare ownership interest.
$50 - $300/year
Electricity, water, gas, and other utility costs for your unit.
$75 - $400/year
Property insurance, liability coverage, and disaster protection.
$200 - $800/year
Homeowners association dues and resort management company fees.
Hidden Timeshare Fees They Don't Tell You About
Additional costs that catch owners by surprise
$150 - $300 per exchange
Want to visit a different resort? Pay exchange company fees plus transaction costs.
$50 - $150 per reservation
Many resorts charge fees just to book your own timeshare week.
$75 - $200 each
Want to let family use your week? Pay a guest certificate fee.
$100 - $300
Need to cancel a reservation? Even for emergencies, expect fees.
$300 - $1,500
Selling or transferring ownership? Prepare for hefty administrative fees.
$25 - $100 + interest
Miss a payment deadline? Penalties and interest add up quickly.
Starting with $1,200/year maintenance fee at 5% annual increase
Year 1
$1,200
Year 5
$1,540
Year 10
$1,976
Year 15
$2,536
Year 20
$3,254
20-Year Total
$47,892
Your fees more than DOUBLE in 20 years
This doesn't include special assessments, property taxes, or any of the hidden fees listed above. The true 20-year cost could easily exceed $60,000-$80,000.
Why Timeshare Maintenance Fees Keep Rising
No Legal Cap on Increases
Unlike rent control, there's no limit on how much your maintenance fees can increase each year. Resorts can raise fees as much as they want.
Aging Properties Need More Repairs
As resorts age, maintenance costs increase dramatically. Roofs, HVAC systems, plumbing, and furnishings all need replacement every 10-20 years.
Fewer Owners Sharing Costs
When owners stop paying or default, the remaining owners must cover their share. This creates a vicious cycle of increasing fees.
Management Company Profits
Resort management companies often have contracts guaranteeing their fees increase annually, regardless of actual costs or property performance.