Can You Get Out of a Vacation Club Contract?

By Michael Ferguson

Have you recently signed a contract with a vacation club and now you want to get out of it? Well, you are not alone.

Many people find themselves in the same position and wonder if it’s possible to cancel the contract. The good news is that there are ways to get out of a vacation club contract, but it can be a complicated process. In this article, we will discuss some of the options available to you.

Understanding Vacation Club Contracts

Before we dive into how to get out of a vacation club contract, let’s first understand what it is. A vacation club is a membership program that offers access to different vacation properties and resorts worldwide.

Members pay an upfront fee and annual dues for the privilege of using these properties for their vacations. Typically, these contracts last for several years, and members are required to pay dues even if they don’t use any of the facilities.

Why Do People Want to Get Out?

There are several reasons why people may want to get out of their vacation club contracts. One common reason is that they realize that they don’t have enough time or money to take advantage of the membership fully. Others may have had a bad experience with the properties or resorts offered by the club and feel that they aren’t getting their money’s worth.

Options Available for Canceling Your Contract

If you find yourself in this situation, there are several options available for canceling your contract:

  • Rescission Period: In many states, there is a cooling-off period where buyers can cancel their contracts within a specific time frame without penalty. The rescission period usually lasts between three days to two weeks.
  • Sell Your Membership: You can try selling your membership back to the vacation club or finding someone else who would be interested in buying it.

    However, be aware that this can be a difficult process, and you may not receive the full value of your membership.

  • Work with a Lawyer: If the vacation club has violated any laws or regulations, you may be able to get out of your contract with the help of a lawyer. For example, if the club misrepresented the terms of the contract or failed to disclose important information, you may have legal grounds to cancel.

What To Consider Before Cancelling Your Contract

Before you cancel your vacation club contract, there are several things to consider:

  • Penalties: Depending on your contract terms, there may be penalties for canceling early. Make sure to read your contract carefully and understand what fees you will need to pay.
  • Refunds: Some contracts offer partial refunds if canceled within a certain time frame.

    Check if this option is available in your contract.

  • Credit Score: Canceling a vacation club contract can negatively impact your credit score if you default on payments or miss any dues. Make sure to plan accordingly.

In Conclusion

Canceling a vacation club contract can be a complicated process, but it’s not impossible. If you are considering canceling your membership, make sure to research all options available and read through your contract carefully.

It’s essential to understand any penalties or fees associated with canceling and how it may impact your credit score. Work with an experienced lawyer if necessary and remember that getting out of a vacation club contract is possible with patience and persistence.