Timeshare Owners Hit Hard by Maintenance Fee Increases

Amid ongoing economic uncertainty, timeshare owners across the United States are feeling increased pressure from escalating maintenance fees and unexpected financial assessments. According to recent data from the American Resort Development Association (ARDA), average annual timeshare maintenance fees increased approximately 8%, climbing from $1,170 in 2022 to $1,260 in 2023. Premium and luxury resorts reported even higher averages, charging owners approximately $1,380 per year, driven largely by inflation and growing operational costs (ARDA, 2024 State of the Industry Report).

The financial strain resulting from rising fees is causing a notable increase in payment delinquencies and disputes between owners and resort management. Economic downturns often compel resorts to impose special assessments—unexpected and often sizable charges—to offset revenue shortfalls. According to ACA International, these assessments have grown significantly more common in the current economic climate, leading to hardship for many owners who find themselves unprepared for sudden costs (ACA International, Special Assessment Report, 2024).

In response to the growing financial pressures faced by timeshare owners, several protection programs have emerged. One of these, Vacation Innovations’ Maintenance Fee Protection Program, reimbursed owners more than $5.4 million in 2024 alone, with expectations to nearly double reimbursements in 2025 due to increased demand (ARDA News, June 2025). Such programs are designed to mitigate some of the financial burdens owners face, especially when maintenance fees and assessments become unsustainable.

At the same time, owners have found partial relief through rental and exchange opportunities. The industry’s rental market has shown notable resilience, generating approximately $3 billion in revenue during 2023—roughly 20% higher than pre-pandemic levels. Platforms allowing timeshare owners to rent out unused weeks or exchange points for alternative accommodations have become crucial in helping offset escalating fees (ARDA, 2024 Industry Report).

Despite these mitigation strategies, owner dissatisfaction appears to be rising. Maintenance fees are consistently outpacing inflation and surpassing the costs associated with traditional hotel stays, prompting a growing number of owners to explore exit options. The timeshare exit industry is seeing increased activity as financially strained owners seek relief. Whether through selling their ownership interest, relinquishing their timeshare back to the resort, or utilizing professional timeshare exit companies, owners are actively pursuing ways to end their financial obligations.

Although financial stress is high, ARDA reports strong continued interest in vacation planning among owners. As of mid-2025, approximately 71% of owners surveyed had already booked vacations for the upcoming year, indicating resilience and an ongoing appreciation for the predictable costs and amenities that timeshares typically provide. However, this enthusiasm is increasingly tempered by concerns over future affordability (ARDA News, June 2025).

For timeshare owners currently navigating these economic challenges, industry experts suggest remaining vigilant. Owners should closely track maintenance fee increases, thoroughly explore protection and rental programs, and consider exit strategies if annual fees become financially overwhelming. Ultimately, staying informed and proactive may be essential to successfully navigating the current economic landscape.

References:

• American Resort Development Association (ARDA). (2024). 2024 State of the Industry Report. Retrieved from ARDA.org
• American Resort Development Association (ARDA News). (June 2025). "Vacation Innovations Expands Award-Winning Maintenance Fee Protection Program Amid Growing Demand." Retrieved from ARDA.org
• ACA International. (2024). "Special Assessments Increasing in Timeshare Communities." Retrieved from ACAgroup.org
• The Timeshare Authority. (June 2025). "ARDA Highlights Vacation Innovations Expansion of Maintenance Fee Protection Program." Retrieved from TheTimeshareAuthority.com