TimeShare Seminars

I'd like to get first hand experience for people who attended timeshare sales presentations (one hour long) where they offer you a free vacation package just for attending. Any catches or string attached to be aware of?

Here are the responses:
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I did this once when I got a good package for Florida. I went in with a closed mind and heard him out. When sked if it interetsed me, I said no. The salesperson was upset and annoyed and complained that I went into the sales pitch having already made a decision not to buy. I just told him this is a no obligation presentation so he should not be upset and did not fall into any further trap. As per the offer, he had to hand over the vacation package.

However, if the offer is for a 2-3 day vacation package to some place, there will be blackout dates and the package will be usable only on weekdays. So beware before you get into the presentation and end up with a week day vacation package 9unless you do not mind it, of course)

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Unless you seriously want to buy a timeshare, dont walk, RUN away from such presentations Sales persona are very demanding, as in life there is no such thing as a FREE LUNCH
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Just be prepared for a tough sales pitch. And don't expect to be there just
an hour. Theey will drag it out as long as possible (figure 2-3 hours
minimum). If you aren't really interested in the concept, don't waste your
time. And the free vacation is usually not totally "free".

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I got those free stuff but didn't go. We had a new born, so couldn't make it.
However, the free cruise in Oakland thing is good. My husband took his friends (4 people) and the price is almost $100 for each person.

If you are not interested in buying it - just say NO and leave.  Don't buy it if you can't make a commitment.

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We attended timeshare presentations twice. There is no catches or strings.
After the presentations, just let them know you do not want to buy the
properties you saw or you are considering other properties etc. Then
you will get your vacation coupons.

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We went to a presentation by TrendWest. No presure to purchase and no hidden rules. But I think there were blackout dates for the free vacation. Not sure about other company though.

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I did go to a couple of these. If you are not going to buy then just make sure that your rep understands that and gives you the gift without trying too much to sell it to you. It is sometimes difficult to do that. But the gifts you get is quite nice at times so may be worth the time.

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Just attend the program, take the goodie that they would give at the end of the session and walkout if you're are not really planning to buy one!

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I had attended one a few year back. These are hardcore sales people, they are very
confident of selling you one in addition to the free one. They will have a one-on-one
with you and you wil find it difficult to back off, as they are giving you something free.
Good Luck!!