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Does Wyndham's new Ovation program offer reasonable exit solutions for owners?

Ask RedWeek / April, 2015

Does Wyndham's new Ovation program offer reasonable exit solutions for owners?

I received an e-mail about Wyndham's new "Ovation" program, which claims to help Wyndham owners end their ownership when desired. Do they really have reasonable solutions, or is this just an attempt to sell us more?

Wyndham, the world's largest timeshare company with 900,000 owners, just rolled out a program that, allegedly, provides a way for owners to sell, donate, or give back their timeshares after many years of supposedly satisfied usage. Known as "Ovation by Wyndham," the exit program was recently announced in a deliberately low-key e-mail blast to owners. WorldMark, one of many Wyndham resort chains, also posted a one-page blurb about Ovation on its Web site. To get any real information about the program, owners had to contact Wyndham.

Everything about the program is pretty murky, at least for now, because the whole thing is an experiment in finding solutions. Wyndham executives, who declined to say much about Ovation for two months, recently gave RedWeek a first-look in order to offset complaints from Wyndham owners that were surfacing on user groups and other owner-forums, including RedWeek.com.

The Ovation Pitch

The e-mail sent to owners had this simple message:

"We're proud to introduce Ovation by Wyndham – a new program offering credible options for owners who are ready to transition to the next phase of their travel needs."

The accompanying one-page blurb sent this message: "This program provides assistance to owners whose lifestyle or vacation preferences have changed and are seeking safe and viable options to transition out of their ownership. Offers available are relative to unique owner needs and qualifications, and may also vary based upon specific program objectives." They go on to say, "You deserve the same level of credibility in closing this chapter of your life as when you opened it. Navigating through the numerous channels out there to find the best solution to help you exit your ownership can be a daunting task. With Ovation by Wyndham, we're here to help you gracefully transition to the next phase of your life - wherever that may take you."

Wyndham Owners Skeptical

The initial online reaction from Wyndham owners was rampant skepticism. Wyndham owners, in general, said they are suspicious that Ovation is simply another "Pathways," a predecessor program that turned into a PR disaster when owners discovered they'd have to spend MORE money, by buying more points, to get out of their timeshares. And getting out was not guaranteed.

Now, having been burned by Pathways, Wyndham is proceeding cautiously with Ovation while it tests the waters to see which exit programs, if any, best suit their owner base.

The venture is being closely watched by the industry because, to date, no major brand-name developer has created a program that allows longtime owners to easily divest themselves of their timeshare contracts. In fact, as Wyndham quietly acknowledges, many companies have turned their backs on original owners, forcing them to deal with third party resale and transfer companies that, in some cases, are running absolute scams - and taking advantage of timeshare owners who are desperate to sell.

Give-Back and Resale Options

Here's what Adam Schwartz, Wyndham Vacation Ownership's Chief Branding and Communications Officer, told us about Ovation.

The company is exploring several exit options, simultaneously, to see how they address the demands from owners.

The first is a straightforward referral program, where Wyndham refers owners to a group of resellers who can help sell their timeshare. The resellers are all vetted by Wyndham, so owners can build confidence that they are working with legitimate companies. "Fly by night" companies that demand $1,000 or more in upfront fees for resale listings are not on the Ovation list, Schwartz said.
The second option is a give-back program, where Wyndham takes back title and allows the owner to end their timeshare contract. This option is not available to all owners; Wyndham retains the right to take back properties it wants or, down the road, can resell to a new buyer.
Option number three blends the give-back program with a right-to-continue-traveling within the club for up to three years. Owners would not have to continue paying maintenance fees while still using the club's travel and exchange services.

"We are testing these concepts to see how much (of the demand) we can fulfill without aggressively broadcasting it – and without breaking our own bank while helping owners," Schwartz said.

No Fees or Purchases Required

Having clearly learned a lesson or two from the Pathways experience, Wyndham says they will NOT charge owners additional fees or force them to purchase anything in order to participate in Ovation.

"Owners are skeptical and may think this is a program to market them to buy more, but if you are really exiting, you will go on the 'do-not-market' list," Schwartz said.

The only exclusion for participation is an unpaid mortgage. Owners who are still paying off their mortgage cannot participate in Ovation until that debt is resolved.

To date, beyond the user-group chat rooms, the initial owner response to Ovation has been positive. "We know how many people have called and gone through the program. It encourages us that we are heading the right direction," Schwartz said.

"I really believe we are going to turn this into a win-win situation for developers and owners," Schwartz said. "Developers have been hesitant to open this Pandora's Box, to recognize that people, at some point in time, may not want to own their timeshare anymore. The question is: are we going to embrace it and find a solution – or shove it under the rug, hide it in the closet, and let others figure it out? With this program, we're trying to convey to Wyndham owners, that if they want to end their ownership, we want them to call us so we can help them."

Time will tell, since the program is still in its infancy and likely to be customized as Wyndham gets more feedback from owners. But as a first step – in an industry that has been reluctant to talk about end-game strategies for owners – it's a start.

RedWeek Needs Wyndham Owners

Are you interested in trying out this program? If so, reach out to us first, and let us follow your experience with Wyndham: what they offer you, how satisfied you are with the options, etc. We have opened up a forum on this topic - please post there if you are interested in sharing your experience. We plan to compile a report with actual owner results in the coming months.

Comments (157)

William T.
Aug 12, 2016

we have several Wyndham properties. having needed to buy more to "fix" our original problem. we are currently members of Pathways hoping to dump some points so that we can afford to retire. when we bought into Pathways they simultaneously talked about Club Wyndham Access and we thought that was part of what we bought for our additional $20,000. purchase. we investigated our options and basically learned that because we self financed no one could help us: unless we would pay $5,000. up front. I did not trust anyone that I spoke with our last purchase was in Nashville October 2014 with a Count ON Me Rep. Bill
Margie G.
Aug 18, 2016

My husband passed away in February, 2016. We own 3 units at Wyndham Pagosa. I received a letter/pamphlet from Ovation saying I can transfer to immediate family at no cost. I have asked for information to give one to our grandson. Waiting for response. Margie Green
James P.
Sep 04, 2016

All smoke and mirrors, I purchased additional points with the assurance that they would rent out a portion of the points to pay maintenance fees and much to my disappointment it never happened and with the mortgage payment and increased maintenance fees I am not able to pay on my reduced income and although I attempted to contact them for assistance I was instructed that there was nothing they could do and they told me that if I stopped making payments they would not act until months had passed and then they would report some kind of statement to the IRS and I would have a tax bill as if I had gained something which the time share was a total loss to me and if I had just put the money aside I could be enjoying nice investments and going anywhere we want. Although the places are nice and the resorts are often very accommodating I would never recommend the program, the more points you purchase the higher the maintenance fees and our maintenance fees alone 6,000 dollars a year and steadily increasing; it just wasn't a good investment...
Carol S.
Sep 10, 2016

I am a new widow and have had my timeshare for 29 years and enjoyed it greatly. I am 82 years old and live in Orlando FL. I have paid maintenance for the last three years and have not used my 44 week in Fox Run #97 because of health. My adult Children will travel with me to my unit this year. I am interested in your program. I received literature in mail today and will be calling the listed number. Thank YOU for hearing the call of the elderly. Mrs. Carol Shultz
Jason M.
Sep 20, 2016

I am taking looking after my Grandmother's timeshare and have just contacted the ovation program, they said they need to make sure the title is free and clear and the maintenance fees are up to date. If all is in order they will send me some paper work to sign and that will be the end of it. no fees or nothing else to buy. It will take them 3 to 4 weeks to get us the paperwork. She has a fixed week deed no mortgage. I will try to give an update to let you know how it goes.
To Margie42 don't pass this burden on to anyone (unless you hate them) just get out of it.
Rhonda F.
Oct 18, 2016

I have just received my paper work to exit the program. WE have two timeshares and do not need both. I am so sick of the scammers out there!! I actually called the salesman that sold us the timeshare. HE no longer worked for Wyndham I was willing to give it to him for free. He said his mothers friend wanted it but never got back with me. Wyndham does have beautiful resorts.
Monika S.
Oct 27, 2016

We have been thinking of getting rid of our Wyndham points for a number of years. Though the resorts are very nice, we were having problems booking the desirable spots at the time we want. We even went to some outside resellers meetings to find out how to get out of it, but were not sure whether to trust these companies since they wanted some money upfront.
When we learnt about the Ovation by Wyndham we were very pleased. We decided to look into it and thought about taking the option for using the points for three years without owning the timeshare and, thus, not paying the maintenance fees.
I called them for the paper works on September 13, but have not received anything from them yet (Oct 27). I was supposed to get it within 4 weeks. Overtime I have called Ovation 6-7 times to follow up. Until today, the person on the other end told me that someone would call me. Today I was told that there is only one person (Kevin White) who is handling all the cases and he needs to talk to each applicant before sending the papers. He will call me when he has the time. There is nothing anyone else can do.
It has been a very frustration experience. I hope Wyndham gets a better handle on this soon. And, the next step of transfer (as it has been described) moves smoothly. Otherwise, it is a losing proposition - one can not use the vacation points while paying the maintenance fees and waiting for the transfer. MonikaS
Carol W.
Nov 03, 2016

I have trying to contact Ovation but can not wait 3-5 minutes on the phone. Please call me at (530)301-8025 regarding contract #IT 0306682.
Carol Wong
David D.
Nov 20, 2016

I will call Wyndham this coming week. I have a fixed week rather than points, and I have been told (by at-resort sales people) that I needed to purchase $10,000 worth of additional points in order to convert my fixed week to points (which I declined). So I am eager to see what kind of response that I get from the Ovation program. Since my wife broke her hip, I have not been able to use (or sell or give away) my time-share ski-week. Wish me luck with this new program!
Mary S.
Nov 26, 2016

I'll be calling them Monday about our every other year week. Since this is the year fees are due, then now is when it is getting out attention, and they are due soon, so I bet there are lots of people calling in. I'll let you know how it goes.
We did own fixed weeks at a Wyndham Resort in Colorado, and were able to turn those in with not a single problem, but that was a different part of the company, since they were fixed weeks.
I'll be watching to see how things go- I really hope it works out for all of you who need to vacate ownership and the big fees involved.
Mary S.
Nov 26, 2016

Condolences on your husband's passing. We were Pagosa owners until we released the two units we owned. That process was seamless and easy. I hope by now you get your response.
Mary S.
Nov 26, 2016

did it work for you?
Alice L.
Dec 06, 2016

We own a Wyndham Vacation Program. We paid cash for the program, in the amount of over $23,000. Our understanding was we would be able to use the vacation facilities with a minimal reservation notice. We are spur of the moment travelers. Since we purchased the agreement in May 2015 it did not become active until November 2015. We have tried repeatedly to use the program, getting the response "reservations are a Year in advance or more". The only place that had available space was the Dominican republic or Mexico. Been there done that! Remember we paid CASH, we not making payments. We are really interested in selling our membership as this was a total waste and not what Wyndham represented to us. We called an agent that Wyndham referred us to, they offered us $1500 for what we paid over $23,000. By the time we were able to maybe use our additional perks/points they expired.
Mary S.
Dec 06, 2016

sadly, misrepresentation is all too common in the timeshare sales industry we experienced ourselves, when we were told we could just rent out week and never pay maintainence fees if we did not use our time far fewer people would purchase if they actually knew what they were buying in the early days, it was a really good option, and worked very well for us, but then the corporate ownership took over, and it was so much more about the bottom line, and ceased to be a good deal for owners so sorry you were unable to use what you spent good money for
Deb M.
Dec 11, 2016

We are happy to see the Ovations Program through Wyndham. While we want to sell both of our timeshare contracts, we also are not interested in "giving them away" for little to nothing. We have experienced the scam of trusting a 3rd party that we thought was credible and ended up out $600 and nothing to show for it. Hence we became skeptical. We then flew to Florida in late 2006 with full intent of selling the 1 timeshare purchased in early 1996 for $6300 & instead were introduced to the point system (fairly new then) vs the bi-annual weekly program. We worked with Ron Chimchirian who upgraded our current timeshare & bought a 2nd time share (Atlantic City), paying $27,449. If you look at our history you will see that we've been doing business with Palm Aire, Fairshare Plus & Club Wyndham for many years. We have used our timeshares in a very miminal way, if at all as well and have paid in additional $20,000 over the years for Maintenance Feels. This said, we have felt there is no trust worthy way to get out from under these contracts, so like fools we just keep paying the expensive & ever increasing mtnce fees because our credit integrity is excellent and we pay our bills on time and we don't want to mess that up.
The madness and the bleeding needs to stop ASAP going into 2017.
Frustrated,
The Mossburghs in Colorado Member #: 00010505332 email: dkmossburgh@msn.com
Mary S.
Dec 14, 2016

this sounds like it falls in the category of too good to be true
Liping
Dec 20, 2016

I called today (12/20/2016) to deed back of my Wyndham fixed week. It took a few minutes on phone. I was told I should expect to receive the document in 4-6 weeks, and the entire process takes 8-10 weeks. It all sounds very reasonable. After than, I called the Wyndahm financial service regarding my 2017 maintenance fee. I was told I don't need to worry about 2017 fee as long as the week is in the Ovation program. My experience so far is very smooth.
Mary S.
Dec 20, 2016

I got a different story weeks ago when I called to ask about Ovation and my 2017 fee, was told 2-3 months and I still owed the 2017 fee but this was not a fixed week, a floating every other week this might vary according to program and resort ownership We decided on using our ownership one more time, this it will be up to our son if he decided to continue on his own
However, I do believe the Ovation program will make your ownership go away.
Mike K.
Dec 22, 2016 (edited)

My experience with Ovation thus far:
First, we have a 182,000 points TS tied to Wyndham Fairfield Plantation (Villa Rica, GA). After submitting a request to deed back the property, as my wife was diagnosed with MS in 2014 and can't travel as much anymore, I received a response directing me to a couple of trusted resellers.
When I called the Ovation number directly, I was told that this property is not in Wyndham's desirable list and they will not take it back.
We owe nothing (bought it on resale) and only pay MF.
I've got inquiries into the two resellers they directed me to, but will mostly likely not hear back as it is close to the holidays.
Regards,
Mike
Lynn B.
Dec 31, 2016

We are interested
Jeffrey W.
Jan 01, 2017

Mike, please keep us posted on what happens with your timeshare. Ovation is an important program, but if it does not work, we want to know about it, since many Wyndham owners are relying upon it to get out of their timeshare. You can contact me as well at jeff@redweek.com
Shelly J.
Jan 06, 2017

We asked for Ovation information when I called back in December to pay the fees on our fixed week. After I paid the fee, they transferred me to the department who would help me. That dept person took my info and said they would contact me after the holidays with paperwork. I made a note on my calendar, figuring I'd have to call them back in mid January, but instead received an email of instructions from them yesterday with attachments to print, sign & get notarized. I scanned & emailed the docs back to day and asked her to verify I had it completed corretly before I take to the mailbox. She emailed back and said it looked good. I mailed today....fingers crossed.
Paul B.
Jan 15, 2017

Jeff, We are to be called by a Wyndham person on Friday about the "closing" of a part of our Wyndham account. Cost us $8,000 to "get ready" for the program--more to follow. Paul Brooks
Spring D.
Jan 26, 2017

i just called the Ovation department today. They said I would have documents emailed to me within 4-6 weeks. After I receive them, we have to sign and have them notarized and send them back.
Lesley G.
Jan 26, 2017 (edited)

Rang to give back my Shell ownership and they said I had to pay this years maintenance fee before they could take back my points! Otherwise I could try and sell through Timeshare Broker Associates. I rang Timeshare Broker Associates and they said that the going rate for Shell points is 10c per point and they would take a long time to sell, though on they website they are offering them for $0.00! Either way I am expected to pay a lot of money to give away my points. It would cost me more to sell them or give them way than they are worth! Definitely not a win-win situation for owners.
Joe D.
Feb 09, 2017

My wife and I own 2 timeshares through Wyndham. The first a fixed week at Shawnee in the Pocono's (We live just an hour away) When we went to an owners meeting a few years ago and voiced our frustration, we stupidly bought another for ($20,000) because they talked us into the whole points program. A program in which they said you can now stay at any of our resorts anytime you want. Only to find out since that time, we can't even get a week in our home resort months in advance.(We drive up there and the place is a ghost town, and they say nothing is available) Now my wife is sidelined with Lyme's Disease, a disease in which the insurance companies refuse to classify as a disease, even tough there are some days she can't even get out of bed the pain is so intense. And ALL treatment is $$ out of pocket. And I have been in chronic renal failure for 5 years and am awaiting a transplant. So we are no longer able to travel even if we wanted to. Yet we still have astronomical maintenance fees that need to get paid. Maintenance fees that are not being used on our fixed week unit that is for sure. But they do have beautiful new units going in. It almost seems this Ovations program id too good to be true. Just like everything else Wyndham has told us over the last 20+ years .
S C.
Feb 16, 2017

Just wanted to provide feedback on ovation program. Called in mid December and asked about options. They provided two options. # 1 - I could try to sell my timeshare and they had 2 reputable firms I could work with. # 2 I could just transfer my ownership back to them. I chose option 2 and told them they could email me the transfer documents. They said it would take up to 4 weeks. 3.5 weeks in I got the paper work. I had it notarized and sent it back on the 24th January 2017. I just called them and my membership was canceled as of 2/2/17. Very easy and smooth. I am not affiliated with Wyndham at all and have to give them high praise for offering this program. Very pleased how easily the whole thing was. Note: I had paid the balance of the account and owed nothing.
Kari F.
Mar 03, 2017

Spent 40 minutes on hold today to find out the the resort at San Luis Bay Inn, Avila CA does not participate in the Wyndham Ovation program and the only way out is to attempt to sell the week. Ridiculously, I got the number of the Ovation Department from the folks at San Luis Bay Inn. The whole timeshare thing is just a scam!!
Micheal V.
Mar 05, 2017

Is anyone having luck with this ovation program? Does it work? Maintenance fees keep rising and points are the same. I'm ready to get out.
Oren G.
Mar 07, 2017

This is BS. I called today and was given the run-around. They just tell me if I discontinue payments we go in to default and they would take us to court. Liars, every one of them!!!
Mark G.
Mar 09, 2017

Made the request to be entered in the program 1/9/17. It is now 2 months later (3/9/17) and I still have not received their promised paperwork to execute the exit option. Originally they said 4-6 weeks. Last call I made to them they up to 12 weeks. We'll see.
Sharon R.
Apr 05, 2017

I contacted the Ovations Department this week (April 3, 2017) and received a case number from Rosa. I then followed up with a call to 855-312-9040 and Robert said that the process will take approximately 12-15 weeks to complete a title search because there are many requests to relinquish the timeshare to Wyndham. Once the title search is completed, the title department prepares the proper documents, mails it to the owner for execution, cancel the contract, record the deed, and send a final letter. The timeshare development is Bonnet Creek in Orlando, FL. Sharon R.
Mike K.
Apr 06, 2017

I was finally able to get out from our last timeshare. I found a buyer and did a normal transfer. Took a little over 3 months to complete. The option Wyndhan gave me was crap. Unless you have a high-demand TS, they don't want it back. Good luck.
sharonr459 wrote:
I contacted the Ovations Department this week (April 3, 2017) and received a case number from Rosa. I then followed up with a call to 855-312-9040 and Robert said that the process will take approximately 12-15 weeks to complete a title search because there are many requests to relinquish the timeshare to Wyndham. Once the title search is completed, the title department prepares the proper documents, mails it to the owner for execution, cancel the contract, record the deed, and send a final letter. The timeshare development is Bonnet Creek in Orlando, FL. Sharon R.
Doug B.
Apr 07, 2017 (edited)

Just called about Ovatiion. They are willing to take my deed back. No compensation but I have two options:1) They take it back and were done no compensation. 2) They take it back and I get to use my amount of points for 3 years free, no fees, I get VIP status (haha), no RCI and no online booking and points expire every year as they do now. I have to tell them which option from the beginning. *Has anyone chose the 3 year option. I want to deed back with nothing in return but wife wants 3 years of points free. I'll post updates. Thanks
Paul C.
Apr 12, 2017 (edited)

I've called the Ovation number 1-866-313-8547 and have been on hold for 10 minutes so far. I think they need help. Finally got thru. My HAWAII time share qualifies so I emptied out my Shell Vacations Club points on Play Deck cards (not the best use of points but why give it away) so I can at least get out of the monthly obligation. I got married a year ago and don't need two timeshares. This is the relief I've needed for soooooo long. I only have one option for the Shell. It is give it back, no money in my pocket but also no fees out either. I paid cash up front for mine and have current maintenance fees so this is ideal. I'm jumping on this chance while the option is still available.
Carol E.
Apr 19, 2017

Just call Wyndham wanting to sell my timeshare. I was told they don't buy them back but I could give it back and it would free me of monthly fees. REALLY!!!!!!! We paid a lot of money for this timeshare. Why on earth would we give it back so you can resell it to someone else and make more money. Sometimes I can't believe how greedy American has become or how selfish and non-caring people are. Please Americans stop falling for all these fly by night scheme to steal you hard earned money. It may have cost me but I GOT IT!!!!!! BE BLESSED
Mary E.
Apr 27, 2017

Ok short and sweet I had three deeded properties that I didn't want anymore. I called the ovation program and they sent the paper work out I signed and sent it back no problems and now I don't own them anymore. That's the pro and con is it does take 3-4 months and you must be current in the mf and you can not use your week. That's it...I am glad I was able to have the option to give it and know that it is 100% taken care of. No scams no BS just be done with it. Last but not least does anyone know if Vistana has this program? I hope this helps someone.
James B.
Jun 11, 2017

We are satisfied owners of Wyndham Nashville timeshare and this is exciting news regarding Wyndham's Ovation program. There was not proper disclosure when we purchased our timeshare Nashville TN over 20 years ago. Its Encouraging that Wyndham has developed a exist program for their owners.
Cindi F.
Jun 20, 2017 (edited)

I became involved with Ovation Feb 2017. Looking to get rid of my timeshare. I have listed with a company that has charged money and of course no sale of properties. I am currently working with the Timeshare Broker Associates. It has taken the full 120 day contract to get a sale. Yet to be seen. I spoke with a rep from ovation Jun 2017 to become a member and not an owner. That plan to me is great. Going to pursue and I will keep you posted. - Thank you - cindif
Cheryl B.
Jul 05, 2017

I have 84,000 points in Access and 84,000 points at Ocean Ridge, Edisto SC. I would like to sell back Ocean Ridge to recoup some of my investment. Any suggestions on what to do with the 84,000 in Access? We only pay monthly maintenance fees.
Roberta F.
Jul 30, 2017 (edited)

I joined Wyndham in 2000 and am on the points system. My deed is in Las Vegas and I finished paying for the deed years ago. I, a 76 year old woman, am the sole owner of the deed. In Dec, 2017, I learned about the Ovations Program through the quarterly publication that Wyndham sends to all its owners, and on Dec. 29, 2016, I applied to the program on the Option 3 mentioned above and was told that Las Vegas is one of the resort places that Wyndhan is willing to take back. But I was not given any details as to what I should do or not do during the application process except that I should stay current on my monthly fees. In late Feb, 2017, I spoke to Minerva who works with the Ovations Program and told her I had no info on where my application was. She then told me that I had made a reservation at the Smokey Mountains Resort in early March and this was not permitted while my application was in process. I told her that no one had told me this. So she suggested that since I was so close to the date of the visit to the SMR that I keep my reservation, then reapply to Ovations after I got back from the trip. At the SMR, one of the sales people told me that since my application to the Ovations Program had been approved in late January, 2017, I could no longer be considered a Wyndham owner but no one had even told me that my application had already been approved. In mid March, following Minerva's advice, I reapplied to the Ovations Program. But again I have not heard further about where I am in the process. To complicate communications further, since May I have not been able to speak with anyone in the Ovations Program office. Wyndham says it has a new web system of operations and while I am holding on the phone, I am being told over and over that the company recommends that we deal with our web page to make reservations. Now it is virtually impossible to speak to anyone at the company. I have called first thing in the morning, and throughout the day, but the lines are always busy. Since I applied to the Ovations Program in Dec, 2017, it is now seven months later and I am still having to pay my monthly fees. I am concerned that I am being scammed. In the seventeen years that I have been a Wyndham owner, I have enjoyed my vacations at Wyndham properties but lately the company has changed dramatically. The latest issue of the AARP magazine has a lengthy article on the scams that are operating in the time-share industry and this has alerted me to the fact that Wyndham too may be scamming its owners. The two times that lately I have been lucky enough to speak to a reservations agent, after holding for 40 minutes on the phone, I have mentioned that while Wyndham is no longer able to provide its promised services to its present owners, the company keeps selling to new owners. The reps who are trained to do their job well tell me that I should just have patience and that the company is trying to work out the kinks in their new IT system. I rather smell that a class action law suit against Wyndham is forthcoming. Meanwhile I am required to keep paying monthly fees and I have no way of speaking to anyone at the Ovations Program office. If I dial the number directly to Ovations, I am connected to the Reservations Dept and all day long I get a busy number.
Frederic W.
Aug 24, 2017

My timeshares predate the points system. I have three weeks based on winter availability . I purchased under the Shell Vacations system and did not see the need to upgrade. Are these units (3) eligible for the Ovation program? I've been using my every-other-year options since 1996.
Frederic W.
Aug 28, 2017

Had the wrong name . fredericw4 , not williamsf4. Still would like concrete contacts for Ovation.
Marta R.
Sep 08, 2017

We own two properties in Shell Vacation Club. I called SVC today to see if there was a rental program. They referred Mr to Ovations by Wyndham. I will be calling to see what options we have. I realize this article is over a year old, but if you still want to follow people pursuing this option, we would be willing.
Edward L.
Sep 18, 2017

My first attempt at Ovation was to contact them via a telephone number provided to me by Wyndham customer service. It turns out that the telephone number is not valid. The number given was 885-312-9040. I've contacted Wyndham again to ask for a verifiable number. Waiting for their reply.
Susan B.
Sep 23, 2017 (edited)

I am a co-owner of 84,000 annual points and we want out. It is incredibly difficult to get a reservation unless you are looking at least a year or more in advance. We have had to change or downgrade our plans several times when trying to use the Wyndham system, and even stayed at a Wyndham hotel that we had to reserve outside of the system (as non-members) when we could not get in as members(!?). We are paying MF all year, and can't use the properties, and they also hit us with some Perks program fees and we never find anything in that program that makes it worthwhile. I can't figure out how to cancel that on the websites. We are frustrated. The closest we could get to our dream vacation to Mount St. Helens next May is over two hours away. And we had to create that last year ... this whole thing has been a important lesson in high pressure sales tactics, and we just want to sell it. Has anyone has any luck getting rid of a points only membership? I really don't want to spend money - or pay Wyndham - to get out of something that I paid for, should have some value, and that Wyndham will just resell if we transfer ownership back to them.
Bill B.
Sep 29, 2017

I sent in my contract # 0002100195650. It was received at title service 9/5/2017. I am still being billed for Wyndham Cypress Palms that i gave to Ovation. William W. Brewer
Lin B.
Oct 29, 2017

My husband and I went to a Leisure Getaways Inc. meeting at a local restaurant. It was billed as an update meeting but they offered us a plan to end our ownership of our timeshare in Newport, RI. We have owned it for 29 years; we have used it and exchanged through RCI for many years but it was becoming more difficult to get to the places that we were interested in traveling to and our maintenance fees are now over $1000 per year. We own a fixed floating week. If we paid Leisure $9000, they would take over our deed and then give us yearly points to be used for travel. We wanted out, not points. They then switched us to a travel plan for $6000. We agreed. We charged this fee to our credit card and went home. Next morning I called Wyndham; they told me about Ovation. No fee, just turn over the title and be free. Sure beats paying someone. Called Leisure Getaways Inc., they wanted us to come back to the restaurant and talk about it. I put my formal cancellation in writing (CT state law, cancel within 3 days) and we went to the restaurant. Leisure said it was a scam; Wyndham will not take it back and we will be sorry to cancel. What did I have to lose? Cancelled and waited for the paperwork from Ovation. Arrived by email in about 2 to 3 weeks. Filled it out, notarized it and mailed it to Elizabeth Olander at Wyndham Title Services. I have just received confirmation that my ownership has been transferred and I am no longer a time share owner. It served us for 29 years, sometimes good and sometimes not so good. I gave it away for free but at least I did not have to pay anyone any money to get rid of it. I would encourage any Wyndham owners to give Ovation a try. I have read many reports through the years that timeshares are impossible to sell so this is a way out. In retrospect, our timeshare was good for the vacation trades but bad because you just cannot get rid of them when you want out of the timeshare contract. There really should be a legal and ethical company that will assist with timeshare sales; this company would make a fortune as many owners want out after a certain period of time. I am not sure why a legitimate company has not picked up on this market.
Joseph A.
Nov 09, 2017

I was able to give back two of my timeshares - one a large number of points and another smaller unit I bought to facilitate trading. They would not take back my last unit although I may try again. I had rented out many of my points and had to wait until all of that had cleared. It's been about six months now and all has been going smoothly.
Ashley K.
Nov 09, 2017

We were scammed by Wyndham in February of this year. They took us for the run around as I am sure they do everyone, and used the fact that we are young and want to travel against us. We have since come into some serious financial needs and can not afford the payments. We haven't even been able to use the resorts! We just want out and hope there is a way for Ovation Program to work for us. We are running out of options and are worried what they will do after months of payments not being paid.
Betty S.
Nov 14, 2017 (edited)

We were sucked into the pathways exit option. Has anyone used Pathway to get rid of their timeshare and did they get $ as ‘promised?’ What is the status—we read only negative things . We can not afford it and do not travel due to health issues and were counting on this little return in May 2019
David B.
Nov 30, 2017

i wanted to be done with a floating week that I had had for 11 years and found out about Ovation. I gave them a call on about the 24th of October and received the documents by email the 2nd of Nov. I followed all instructions and sent them in the 3rd. On Nov 14th I received an email my contract was cancelled and was thanked for being a customer. On Nov 25th I received the Maintenance bill for 2018, contacted the billing department on the 27th and was told I owed nothing as my contract was cancelled.
Frances D.
Dec 18, 2017

I own fixed week 21 at Wyndham Riverside Suite in San Antonio, TX. It is paid in full and MF are up-to-date. I want out of Timeshare because it no longer meets my vacation needs.
On Dec 8th, I visited with Chris Matzenbacher (ReedHein) with Timeshare Exit Team. He offered help to exit timeshare for $4,545.00...but first exhaust your efforts to get Wyndham to take back. I was also contacted by Walter Gard from Resort Release, who could also help me exit timeshare for $5,600 and mentioned that Timeshare Exit Team are not as reputable as Resort Release. When I informed him that I was taking Chris's advice to call the Wyndham Exit Team first before proceeding with TET or RR; he informed me that I was making a BIG mistake and that I would be calling him back to exit timeshare.
On Dec 12th, I reached out to Wyndham Exit Team member, Monica. I will be getting more information in 2 weeks (12/26). Today, 12/18th I called Jill from Wyndham Care to get clarification on process. Dec 26th, I should get email from Wyndham Exit Team to see "IF" I qualify for OVATION process to exit . In the meantime, I must stay current on 2018 MF so mail $50.00 check to Wyndham Vacation Resorts, ATTN: ASO FW EFT, 10750 West Charleston Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89135 (Like Ryan from Finance instructed). Keeping my Fingers Crossed in Texas!!
Mary L.
Jan 12, 2018 (edited)

My husband and I purchased our time share in Destin last January, and it was the worse decision we ever made. We are in our 70's and had just retired when we were offered a free week to listen to the presentations. We really had no intention to buy because we were unsure of living on a fixed income of Social Security and STRS.. The manager at the time was very delightful and she miraculously was able to find a timeshare in inventory that we thought we could afford at the time. My husband was approved for a VISa Card of $10,000 that wouldn't cost us anything at the time. Based on our income and debt ratio I have no idea how we were even approved. I guess we were so vulnerable and excited to be retired that we didn't look ahead to the financial burden this Time Share would incur on us. We visit Destin every spring, so I guess our thoughts were that we spend the money anyway renting in Destin every year so why not have something to show for it and leave our children.Not only is it next to impossible to find availability in Destin during the times we want, but we also cannot afford it. The $586.00 a month payment is 20% of our monthly retirement income. At the time we purchased, we had some money in the bank but we didn't realize the expenses of moving and living on a fixed income. We just cannot afford this Time Share, and it is not what we expected for our life style and destination goals.I did read above that this Ovation program is designed for people that have already paid their mortgage, and we do not meet this criteria. This time share has cost us $10,000 which we are paying through another loan and I have paid $6,000 for the year in mortgage and monthly maintenance fees. Is there something we can do based on our age and the financial burden it has on our monthly cost of living expenses? PLEASE PLEASE HELP
Garvin M.
Jan 16, 2018 (edited)

I have been a Shell Vacations owner for approximately 13 years, a points based ownership at the Paniolo Greens resort in Hawaii. We have been looking to exit this timeshare for at least half the time we have owned it. It has been paid off within a few months of purchase. We have exchanged the points for a couple of other places over the years, banked and lost the majority of what we have accumulated. Now retired, the yearly maintanance fee has been a burden for a long time, but after wasting $500 with a re-sell scam about 6 or 8 years ago, we have been careful when looking at other avenues of escape. Well, I found out that the ownership transfers to my heir upon our passing and that made my mind up....I had to find a way to get rid of it. I contacted Timeshare Solutions and Resort Release and got the same basic response: "Shell doesn't want to deal with returning the timeshares and only legal action will work", to the tune of around $5000 to $6000 ! I was close to taking the plunge, I am that committed to getting out of this burden. Then I spotted the link to this Ovations review page. I then went to Wyndham's Ovation page, called the Ovations direct line and after talking to a Case Specialist, was advised I qualified for the program. The next day I spoke to one of the program specialists, she has started the process. I have been assured that there will be no fees, no additional costs and in approximately 3 months I will no longer own the timeshare, be responsible for maintanance fees beyond keeping them current until the release is final. They are taking the timeshare back. I am not receiving any compensation, but that is fine with me. It sounds like this will be painless and I will be saving $5000-$6000. I would strongly suggest anyone with a Shell Vacations or Wyndham timeshare that they want to get out from under, go to: https://www.clubwyndham.com/cw/discover/ovationbywyndham.page and see which avenue best fits your needs. They have at least three or four options, but if your timeshare is paid off and you are current on your maintenance fees, the Ovations program can get you out painlessly. I will follow up in 3 or 4 months with the rest of the story. ***UPDATE*** : So as promised, an update. We went through the Ovations program and it was indeed painless and handled via email. We now are free of the timeshare as of early-April 2018 at no out of pocket cost whatsoever. Yes, we gave it back without receiving anything in return, but that was exactly what was promised and after years and years of trying to get out and numerous offers to get us out from under the timeshare for $5000 to $6000, that is all we wanted. The people at the Ovations program were easy and professional and followed through on all promises. It all starts with a phone call. Remember, this was a paid off property....no mortgage. Good luck all!
Jeffrey W.
Jan 17, 2018

Hello Mary, give me a call and I'll look into your situation with Wyndham. Jeff Weir 310-801-3479. I work with RedWeek on owner issues. Your case is unusual because you've only owned a year and you've got a loan on your purchase. Wyndham might be willing to take back your timeshare, but they cannot forgive the loan because timeshare mortgages are typically held by third parties. In meantime, suggest you list your timeshare for rent and sale on RedWeek. Renting is a great way to cover your expenses.
Roger M.
Jan 18, 2018

R.MARTIN Wish I'd read these and many other comments about Wyndham's lies and scams to us timeshare owners before buying more points on Dec 2016. Was most impressed with their "new" ovation program to sell back my timeshare units. Like most timeshare owners, received weekly emails and phones call from many companies offering to "help" get out of my timeshares. Only to find they usually want me to pay $2,000 + up front or just "give" them my units!!. Very happy when the New Orleans reps told me Wyndham will now "buy" my timeshare units back if we ever want to sell. I even asked the question twice -- "Wyndham will buy my timeshare units when we want to sell??"" Agent said yes. I asked if it was equal to what we have paid and reply was: " Cannot say as will depend on current market value!" Sounded right was my response and we agreed to buy another $21,000 value of units!! OK -- one year later when calling the Wyndham Ovation reps I was told they do NOT buy any timeshares but would refer me to a timeshare Realestate company!! The New Orleans Wyndham rep had totally lied to us and now we own over $35,000 of units that the Realestate company said they could sell for about $1,015 . and we'd be charged about $500 sales fees!!! Like many Wyndham owners we're going broke with the increases in the maintenance fee yearly!! Wish there was a Class Action suit against Wyndham for all the lies their reps make when selling us timeshares! I'd join it today!!
Roger M.
Jan 18, 2018

R.MARTIN Wish I'd read these and many other comments about Wyndham's lies and scams to us timeshare owners before buying more points on Dec 2016. Was most impressed with their "new" ovation program to sell back my timeshare units. Like most timeshare owners, received weekly emails and phones call from many companies offering to "help" get out of my timeshares. Only to find they usually want me to pay $2,000 + up front or just "give" them my units!!. Very happy when the New Orleans reps told me Wyndham will now "buy" my timeshare units back if we ever want to sell. I even asked the question twice -- "Wyndham will buy my timeshare units when we want to sell??"" Agent said yes. I asked if it was equal to what we have paid and reply was: " Cannot say as will depend on current market value!" Sounded right was my response and we agreed to buy another $21,000 value of units!! OK -- one year later when calling the Wyndham Ovation reps I was told they do NOT buy any timeshares but would refer me to a timeshare Realestate company!! The New Orleans Wyndham rep had totally lied to us and now we own over $35,000 of units that the Realestate company said they could sell for about $1,015 . and we'd be charged about $500 sales fees!!! Like many Wyndham owners we're going broke with the increases in the maintenance fee yearly!! Wish there was a Class Action suit against Wyndham for all the lies their reps make when selling us timeshares! I'd join it today!!
Karin S.
Jan 23, 2018 (edited)

I've owned a Wyndham Time Share Unit at Washington National Harbor, MD since 2012. It's fully paid off, but I can no longer afford the monthly maintenance fees as I was recently laid off from my job. I'm hoping Wyndham/Ovation will agree to take it back. I've been reading all the comments posted at this site and plan to call Wyndham tomorrow to see what options they can offer me.
Donna M.
Feb 13, 2018

I have two Wyndham properties as a home base. When I contacted them about this program, I was told that I didn't have the type of loan that they could do this with. Really Wyndham? You haven't changed a bit with your tactics of luring people into your properties, lying, deceiving, etc.
Kathleen D.
Feb 17, 2018 (edited)

I just want to get rid of all my paid timeshares at Shawnee. I will surrender the deed and all responsibility that my deeded children were named on the deed to absove them from any responsibility before my death or after. is it possible to get rid of this monkey on my back?
Kathleen D.
Feb 17, 2018

who has successfully gotten rid of their deed and ownership of their tiemshare?
Sharon K.
Mar 10, 2018

I would likeep more information on the. I own 2 timeshares I bought 2nd hand owe no money except maintenance. 2 years ago went to Hawaii and after hours of hard selling and pressure ended up buying 508,000 points. They merged my other two timeshares and now that I can't afford the mortgage payment but pay have been able to pay the maintenance they won't let me make any reservations on the point I owned before HawaiI. I talked to an outside company to help me get out of the Hawaii contract but they wanted $24,000 to do it and there was no guarantee Wyndham wouldnt put lien on my home, etc. So how do I get out of the Hawaii contract without giving my already paid for contracts?
Kimberly B.
Mar 24, 2018

@rogerm241 -- If you start the class action lawsuit, we'll join. Have a very long, involved story about Wyndham but it was the worst decision EVER to purchase from them. Took them 7 years to get the deed recording correctly after we bought it cheap from a family member. SEVEN YEARS! That just the start. They lie, deceive, pressure, prey on people, etc., etc.!
Sylvia F.
Apr 09, 2018 (edited)

After our horrific experience with the timeshare people we were so mad how cunning they can be in this trade, we tell people we know- to beware of the timeshare sharks who are so heartless to easy preys. We were just passing by then and we are enticed with all the good shows and promises told us for just 30 mins of our time but we were held up, they used up our 1 day of holiday, very convincing with all their sales pitch tactics and promises until they had us signed. So just to get out, we thought what kind of "thing" is this! Not letting us go! So we hesitantly signed a deeded 2-BR Timeshare with El Dorado, the Granview at Las Vegas. We thought that maybe it is really true, decided to keep it to try and we will get rid of it, we fully paid $23K within a year after our purchase on Sept 2010 to avoid interest. Also, the Resorts people who sold us convinced us to exchange with RCI for a better window of resorts to choose from, but that is an additional fees to us plus the MF. Maintenance Fees is always increasing which is now $900/year. We keep it hard to be updated so we will not be penalized of late payment. We are not able to use the timeshare as much as always end up getting a vacation not of our choice so just to make use of our fees. We are so sad we lost all the hard earned money we paid to the timeshare. We are now at the year of retirement and with minimal income, we will not afford anymore to pay the MF plus RCI fees. And what a disbelief we learned we cannot even sell it or give it back but thru legal process. My husband is always worried and sleepless, I have been praying hard to lead us, almost got so discouraged and so helpless, been searching online and came across RED WEEK thru comments. THANK GOD and THANK YOU for this feature - the Ovation Program of Wyndham, as we are really hoping we will get help to exit from this contract. In the Ovation program, it states..."you (i believe meant for owners) deserve the same level credibility in closing this chapter of your life as when you opened it" - with this said....I am just begging Wyndham through RedWeek to help its owners especially those who are facing financial difficulty due to this, that there should be a monetary payback . And as for me and my husband, will be very grateful even for a portion of what we paid for, now when we decide to end. This will help us a long way towards our retirement which we lost when we opened the timeshare with you.
Brandi A.
Apr 15, 2018 (edited)

What if we still owe with Wyndham will they take it back? We have 300,000 points in Panama City Beach
Faye S.
Apr 16, 2018

How does Wyndham handle Canadian owners re a notary public signing papers.
Joan S.
May 05, 2018

Just sent an email to Ovation to find out if they will take our TS, Shawnee on the Delaware, Pa. We have owned it over 30 years, have a deed, fully paid for etc. Will keep you informed . joansekelsky@yahoo.com
Garvin M.
May 05, 2018 (edited)

Call the Wyndham Ovations program and find out. I got out of my 13 year old timeshare with ease and not one penny out of pocket. Look on page 3 of this forum and I have a post with an update, user name "garm2" telling all about my experience. Look up the Ovations program online.
Garvin M.
May 05, 2018

I did, check out my post on page 3 of this forum, user name garm2.
Jon T.
May 18, 2018

Lie Lie Lies, See the comment "Owners who are still paying off their mortgage cannot participate in Ovation until that debt is resolved", basically those are the owners who want to get out of owning the timeshare. If your timeshare is all paid for, than it has no value at all in the market, and basically will get nothing, so why give it back. This is another Wyndham scam as usual to take back what owner actually own and sell it off to other who really do not need it.
Garvin M.
May 18, 2018

What lies? They don't promise to release every owner from their contract. It clearly states you should contact the program to see if your timeshare qualified for the program. Yes, your mortgage needs to be paid off before you can qualify, as far as I can tell. As for your question asking "If your timeshare is paid for...why give it back?" There are owners who don't ever use their timeshare and with the ever increasing maintenance fees just want to get out from under the ownership. Nobody is lying. Ovations is upfront that the owner is not being compensated for releasing ownership of the property. It worked smoothly for us and if they re-sell the ownership, that's their right.
Linda K.
Jun 11, 2018 (edited)

I have been trying to get WYNDHAM CARES (no they dont)to contact me since March, 2018. I keep being told the are very busy and will call in 15 working days. They never do. Then I call again, and again, and again, 7 calls. The last call i was told i would be called in 4 working days, instead of a call on Saturday, June 9 , I got a letter dated June 1 from Robert Perry, the person we have been calling, stating that we had until June 15th to send them all our finances, or W-2's or IRS forms. 6 days SIX DAYS. They are a rip off company that only wants your money. We have be owners since 2001, 17years. With what we have paid out we could have brought Wyndham. Michael Kerr.
Hollie F.
Jun 14, 2018

I recently signed up for a time share and would like to take advantage of this program
Luis R.
Jun 17, 2018

Excellent information for an owner who, as myself, is lost trying to find exit from ownership, without letting scammers take their money and fleed.
JoAnn S.
Jun 23, 2018

But your loans have to bel paid off. Since they split our into two contracts we were told you can decide which One we want to,get rid n the loan would not have to pay off that loan. Now it says they need to be paid off. We were misrepresented. Thank you. JoAnn Slosar contraact #00202297576
Joe G.
Jul 13, 2018

Crossing my fingers that this works for us. We have had a Shell Vacations timeshare (points) for 15 years. We almost never use it and the annual maintenance fees are such a waste for us. I tried to sell the points a while back but even at the low price of ZERO, no one wanted them. I have considered going the legal route as I just want to be done with this. Stumbled across the information here about the Ovation program and have just sent an email to them to see if we can get out cleanly. We don't owe anything on the points, paid for them upfront and have been making the annual maintenance payments regularly.
Tyler S.
Jul 18, 2018 (edited)

We haven't even used the program at all. They sold this program as an affordable way to annually go on vacation, but they only gave us 126,000 points and our monthly costs are almost $400 a month with HOA and mortgage. They said we could buy tickets to disney using their points and when we asked they couldn't give us solid numbers on it but they said it wouldn't be a problem. they also said we could even rent a car for 50-100 points (that was a total lie). We went ahead and signed it cuz we weren't locked into a single location, we could go anywhere and it sounded like a viable option to single location time shares. We tried to review information, but because they hadn't "set us up" we couldn't get information. They said it would take 14 days. Nope. It took nearly 1.5 months to get us fully setup where we could review everything and then finally we called and were floored. Disney tickets run 48,000-50,000 for a single park, single person, single day ticket! For our family of 5 to go, 1,225,000 points. (well they said we could buy them with points, never really said anything about it being priced REASONABLY). Ok no sweat, we'll fork over $2k to buy tickets on our own...car rental? 150,000 for a week rental of a car...so basically the entire year and some of next year is required to get the car too? what happened to 50-100? even if he meant 50,000-100,000 that's still not what it was. We sent an email to ovation, though I'm pretty sure I'm gonna need a lawyer to get out of this. We're out $3800 so far and every month it increases and the paypal accounts they set us up to pay the down payments is 0 interest for 6 months, but after 6 months its got to be paid off or we're going to accrue a lot of interest... I'm pretty sure this program doesn't include people who just bought it and feel scammed out of something.
Its cheaper for us to simply save the HOA and mortgage costs and go anywhere... we were also told getting out of the program was "easy" and they don't want anyone to "incur undue hardship". We'll see if THAT was a lie too.
Virginia H.
Aug 03, 2018

We still owe on our timeshare, but want to get out from under it. We no longer have the finances to continue paying the mortgage along with maintenance fees. How do we go about this?
Garvin M.
Aug 03, 2018

To: joeg435....It sounds like the Ovations program is tailor-made for your situation. Mine was the same, but we had an even longer ownership and I got out from under it without paying a cent. It did take a couple months, but was well worth it. Follow with an update once you find out if it will help you. Good Luck!
Rene B.
Aug 03, 2018

I own timeshare at Carriage Ridge, in Ontario, Canada. Does Wyndham offer a buy out plan for us Canadian owner. If so, please let me know as both my wife and I are interested. Thank you, Rene renebaril@icloud.com
Robyn B.
Aug 16, 2018

PLEASE HELP!! My Dad was killed in April. He owned a Wyndham timeshare in Florida but my brother and I (co-executors of the estate) were not beneficiaries to the timeshare, his estate was and we live in Canada.
I contacted Wyndham in May to tell them what happened and that we could not financially keep the timeshare and would like to get out. They transferred me to title services where I again explained and they said they would need a copy of the probated will before they would talk to me which I replied that we were working on.
I got it sent off to them last week and then a couple of days ago I received a letter from a collection company for overdue fees as well as a collection fee. I called them again and title services said they would transfer me to financial services.
I explained that I talked to them in May about cancelling and what had happened. I explained that we did not have the money to keep the timeshare and that is why we wanted to get out. I explained that this timeshare was not my choice and that I was already dealing with a difficult situation and could not understand why they would send it to collections when I was doing everything I possibly could to resolve the matter quickly and keep them informed.
Their response was, "you have talked to title services before, why didn't you try talking to us" and "there is nothing we can do no that it is in collections. You will have to pay and then maybe we can talk about working something out". My responses were "I was transferred to title services and I assumed that was all I needed to talk to as they wouldn't even really talk to me until I get Probate and besides, I don't know your company's departments" and "why can you not call the collection company and have it sent back as it should not have been sent there in the first place". The very unkind gentleman on the phone replied with "I am not doing the work for you".
I can't afford these collection fees, I tried folding the account as of May because I knew I would not be able to keep paying, I am exhausted from crying and I just want to mourn my Dad. I don't know how to get out of this as I never owned it (and still don't), it is in another country and I can't afford thousands. If anyone can offer advice to help me take the next steps or has been in a similar situation, I would be forever grateful!
Thank you
Erma R.
Aug 24, 2018

I have a timeshare Wyndham Resorts I purchase April 2018 and I fell back in my payments due to the loss of my uncle to then my mom so I fell backwards I'll call Wyndham and ask him what they work with me and some kind of way so I can catch up with I really want to keep the timeshare but they said no so I'm trying to figure out what can I do I don't want to lose it I want to catch up with the payment but i need some one to work with me what can i do any suggestions I really like $1,000 behind
Brenda F.
Aug 27, 2018 (edited)

We have used our fixed week for the most part at our home resort of Wyndham in Fairfield Glade, Tn since our purchase of it in 1986 ... it brought us great joy as we raised our children and we had the use of Fairfax at that time. Advance forward to now ... we have been blessed to have cherished memories there with my parents and my in laws and our children and grandchildren ... but now it is time for a new adventure and we are heading into retirement. We have decided to simplify and therefore my husband and I are looking at our options for our Wyndham fixed week. We have been approached with several pay up fronts and we have declined ... we have now started researching Ovation by Wyndham but like you all on here ... we are very skeptical ... it does sound good in the fact of getting out from under our maintenance fees and possible assessments but is it a too good to be true? Thank you in advance for any and all replies! Brenda 8/27/18 Update: we attended a seminar with relief solutions inc. ... even though they say they are not an upfront company ... not true! They wanted 6995 ... when I mentioned that sounded high they immediately dropped it to 3995 ... I said I wanted to check out other options before committing to them ... and I mentioned Ovations by Wyndham... they said ovations would not help us because we are fixed week owners. I said that is not true ... they dropped their price to 2400. It got a little ugly but my husband and I did not sign and did not pay up front! I am so crossing my fingers that Ovations by Wyndham is able to do for us what they mentioned to me the other day when I initially called them and that you all are mentioning on here. Crossing fingers bigtime :) blessings!.
George B.
Aug 30, 2018

I haven't heard back from you 517 515 873
Ana K.
Sep 09, 2018 (edited)

My husband recently retired and we cannot afford what we owe on our timeshare and maintenance fees. We were also told by Wyndham at the time of buying more points that they would buy it back should our situation changed. LIES!!! Any suggestions on who to contact that is not a scammer? Ovation by Wyndham just shut us down and we've been owner for over 18 years!
Linda R.
Oct 01, 2018

As I’ve stated to many WyndhamOwnerNet employees, my health as well as my husbands has declined in our senior age. We do not travel as we could due to health issues. Besides that, Wyndham has lied, deceived us too many times and we always have to continue paying on the interest of a product that our money has not been applied to the principal at all. This would have us paying Wyndham for the rest of our lives for something we cannot live in. With our rising medical cost and daily living expenses, it is not acceptable for Wyndham to continue defrauding us after 13 plus years with them. We just want out of this supposedly pyramid scheme they have run on people for years. We can’t afford it & there’s no way. or reason humanly possible for us to continue listening to their lies. We have contacted their Ovation Program & are awaiting a response. Wyndham board members are trillionaires while we are poor, aging & miserable. I have had brain aneurysm surgery and still have another aneurysm along with chronic kidney disease and polymyalgia rheumatica, cervical disc radiculopathy along with many other health issues
John W.
Oct 10, 2018

If you sell your units to a reputable reseller like timeshareangels.com or wmcredits.net at least you will get something for them rather than just giving them back to Wyndham for nothing. I have purchased units from both of these sites and they are very professional, no problems and I saved the high commissions built into the cost of buying from Wyndham
Mimi E.
Oct 21, 2018

I’m a longtime Wyndham WorldMark (previously Trendwest) owner. When we brought in 98 I had doubts and a little of buyer’s remorse. Luckily it has been good and I’m interested in getting more points. I hear lots of people here interested in getting rid of their maintenance fee. I’ll take over them but it needs to be compatible with my current points. Not certain how it would all work but we would have to call Wyndham and research. Just wondering why would I buy from developer when there are so many owners wanting to get out from Wyndham. They probably have some type of clause or process to prevent this, but I’m willing to try it if you are.
Dan M.
Nov 21, 2018

We talked with a Wyndham rep. at Ovations and was told about (Option number three blends the give-back program with a right-to-continue-traveling within the club for up to three years. Owners would not have to continue paying maintenance fees while still using the club's travel and exchange services.) we were not told about the ( give back program) we thought we were participating in option 3 as the other options were never discussed. We received the forms to sign over the deeds and afterwords found out we have no points for the next 3 years. DO NOT GET INVOLVED WITH ANY TIMESHARES. Glad to be out.
Lori G.
Nov 29, 2018

We are looking to get rid of our timeshare (Hawaii - toally paid off) and the associated maintenance fees as we will never use it again. We are going to try to see what Wyndham offers us in the Ovation program. Will keep you posted.
Kathy B.
Dec 04, 2018

My husband and I own 7000 points through Worldmark by Wyndham. Since we have few points we plan a vacation a year in advance and it usually works. Due to health issues, flying has become a problem and we need to sell our points or get rid of them somehow. I am not going to deal with ebay, that is too worrisome to me. Has anyone had any success with this ovation plan and what do they do?
Garvin M.
Dec 04, 2018

I used the Ovation Program last December (2017) and was able to get out from under my Shell Vacations Timeshare, which we had owned for around 13 years and used maybe twice, at no cost and just by making a phone call and signing a few documents. Go into the time share forums here at Red Week (ask-redweek-wyndham-ovation-help-owners-get-out) page 3 and look for my post on January 16th, 2018 under the name "Garvin M." All the information is there. I even went back and updated the post at the bottom when the release was complete. One caveat: you have to own the points or property free and clear and you are not selling it to them. You are giving it up with no recompense. It was worth it to us to get our from under the maintenance fees (we didn't pay that much for it in the first place)
kathyb969 wrote:
My husband and I own 7000 points through Worldmark by Wyndham. Since we have few points we plan a vacation a year in advance and it usually works. Due to health issues, flying has become a problem and we need to sell our points or get rid of them somehow. I am not going to deal with ebay, that is too worrisome to me. Has anyone had any success with this ovation plan and what do they do?
Garvin M.
Dec 04, 2018

I used the Ovation Program last December (2017) and was able to get out from under my Shell Vacations Timeshare, which we had owned for around 13 years and used maybe twice, at no cost and just by making a phone call and signing a few documents. Go into the time share forums here at Red Week (ask-redweek-wyndham-ovation-help-owners-get-out) page 3 and look for my post on January 16th, 2018 under the name "Garvin M." All the information is there. I even went back and updated the post at the bottom when the release was complete. One caveat: you have to own the points or property free and clear and you are not selling it to them. You are giving it up with no recompense. It was worth it to us to get our from under the maintenance fees (we didn't pay that much for it in the first place)
lorig401 wrote:
We are looking to get rid of our timeshare (Hawaii - toally paid off) and the associated maintenance fees as we will never use it again. We are going to try to see what Wyndham offers us in the Ovation program. Will keep you posted.
Roger M.
Dec 24, 2018

Rogdurango, Looking to get out of my wyndham timeshare programs via Ovation program. WoW! Need a dummy guide for owner to follow the various program they want me to use. Have a 2 yr use point program (even yrs) from our Durango CO timeshare and is considered as a biannual contract and ovation will take this as "an inventory return" with no credits given. They close us out and we are fee of all future maint fee and thus no longer owned this timeshare. No any benefits from this give-a-way and we then also lose all future timeshare points and no 3 yr useage. When this is then done they will consider our other timeshare program.
We have another timeshare program called "limited edition" and we can use Ovation to sell it and get 3 yr (?) of point use without any maint fees. Ovation then keeps our timeshare after 3 yrs and we're done as a traveler. Again, they keep all with value with no returns to us. Yes, we''l then suck up about $32,000 of timeshare ownership and wyndhams is giving us NOTHING in return!!
Any one else out there done this method and have any tips to share as we try to end our timeshare maint fees and future owner liabilities???
Yolanda S.
Mar 28, 2019

My husband and I have WorldMark points and we purchased our timeshare almost two years ago. We have been trying to get out of this bad investment and no one will help you if your loan has not been paid off. They have lied about getting a reservation when you want to travel because the times we want to use our points and make a reservation it’s never available. All they are interested is getting their dues and don’t care to help you out. This has been the worst investment I have ever done. Over $15,000 dollars in down payment and dues and I have only gotten two night stay at their Las Vegas resort. Don’t buy a timeshare! They will not help you get out of your timeshare.
Richard B.
Apr 09, 2019 (edited)

My name is Richard Burns in I was a co-signer with my wife Jeanette our contract number was ***. I want to no how I can take over full payment so my credit will not go down any further.
Leah K.
Apr 15, 2019

I have a floating 2 bedroom in Hawaii. Ka Eo Kai. I also am not using the time share but pay maintenance. I have enjoyed the time share for over 18 years. I do not enjoy the space banking process as I rarely get a like property. I need help selling my time share. Suggestions?
RedWeek Support RedWeek.com
Apr 15, 2019 (edited)

Leah K.: If you would like to view the resale options available on Redweek, please go to this page: RedWeek Resale Options (https://www.redweek.com/sell-my-timeshare)
To speak with a representative about selling your timeshare, please call 1-866-971-1737 between 8am - 4pm Pacific time, Monday - Friday, or you can click the "Contact Us" link at the bottom of any page for information by email.
Brenda F.
Apr 15, 2019

The ovation program was great for my husband and I. We were able to go through the process in the fall of 2018 and it was done by extreme professionals on the ovation side. We are so thankful for having happened on to the Ovation program and recommend it highly for anyone who owns fixed weeks or points through Wyndham. We happened to own a fixed week so we did not benefit as much as those who own points but we still are considered as non owners of timeshare and no more maintenance fees were due after the process was done. one thing that we were warned about was don’t use any spacebanked weeks while in this process ... that could have potentially killed the deal. Good luck and God Bless!
lorig401 wrote:
We are looking to get rid of our timeshare (Hawaii - toally paid off) and the associated maintenance fees as we will never use it again. We are going to try to see what Wyndham offers us in the Ovation program. Will keep you posted.
Garvin M.
Apr 16, 2019

kathyb969 .....I think my post answers your question. Like it says, we used the ovation program and made a clean break. We didn't get any return on our points or ownership, but we are totally out from under the property and have no maintenance fees anymore, which were getting out of hand. All it took was one call and they led us through the rest. Call and see if it works for you.
Boniface D.
May 27, 2019

So how does the Ovation program work? I live in Canada and I pay over $200 a month Canadian in maintenance fees to Wyndham Worldmark that I have owned since 1993 and it is killing me. I was going to try and sell it myself or rent some of my weeks etc but it is such a hassle and I just lost my husband and I am not up to all this. I just want to find out how to use this Ovation. Any information that you can give me would be very appreciated.
Thank you. D.
garm2 wrote:
kathyb969 .....I think my post answers your question. Like it says, we used the ovation program and made a clean break. We didn't get any return on our points or ownership, but we are totally out from under the property and have no maintenance fees anymore, which were getting out of hand. All it took was one call and they led us through the rest. Call and see if it works for you.
Brenda F.
May 28, 2019

Hello to all the Wyndham timeshare owners who are seeking to get out of your timeshare -
Hopefully this finds you doing great and if you are reading this hoping that it helps you know that Ovation was amazing for my husband and I and maybe it will help You Too :)
My husband and I successfully did use the Ovation program and we no longer are liable for the maintenance fees. As I understand it ovation is only available if there is not mortgage and no outstanding maintenance fees being owed. In our case we contacted ovation in September of 2018 and by the end of November/December when I checked with our home resort at Fairfield Glade Timeshare Owners they had noted on our file and record of it being in the process of being taken back by Wyndham and my husband and I were not going to be liable for any further maintenance fees. I had heard through different forums to make sure it was totally out of our name and with the new maintenance fees being due by end of January 2019 I was concerned and wanted to make sure we were not liable - so I have checked this year of 2019 and the records continue to show my husband and I are no longer responsible for anything and we are not owners of our fixed week any longer.
The process was fairly simple & the folks from ovation that we dealt with were very professional and seemed to stay on top of everything from start to finish. My husband and I had checked into several options and what would turn out to be scams before we thankfully found the Ovation opportunity that Wyndham resorts themselves had created to help the timeshare owners that no longer had use for their paid off and current on maintenance fees timeshares.
I just wanted to come on here today in case anyone is searching like we were & wondering if ovation could be the answer? It was definitely a Godsend to us and totally awesome for our situation.
Good Luck and God Bless! Al & Brenda Freeman (FORMER 35+ year owners of the timeshare fixed week 32 in Fairfield Glade,Tn)
Boniface D.
May 29, 2019

Hi: I don't know if you got my last message I sent you but I have been waiting for a reply maybe I missed it some how, Anyway, I would like to know how you got our of your Worldmark timeshare with Wyndham and what do they ask you to do? I have heard nothing but bad press about this Ovation and Wyndham's so some good news would be great. I was going to approach them but I wanted to know the straight goods from someone who has had success.
Thank you for your time and would greatly appreciate a reply.
Dianne
brendaf172 wrote:
The ovation program was great for my husband and I. We were able to go through the process in the fall of 2018 and it was done by extreme professionals on the ovation side. We are so thankful for having happened on to the Ovation program and recommend it highly for anyone who owns fixed weeks or points through Wyndham. We happened to own a fixed week so we did not benefit as much as those who own points but we still are considered as non owners of timeshare and no more maintenance fees were due after the process was done. one thing that we were warned about was don’t use any spacebanked weeks while in this process ... that could have potentially killed the deal. Good luck and God Bless!
lorig401 wrote:
We are looking to get rid of our timeshare (Hawaii - toally paid off) and the associated maintenance fees as we will never use it again. We are going to try to see what Wyndham offers us in the Ovation program. Will keep you posted.
Susan L.
May 30, 2019 (edited)

What if we just upgraded and are still paying? Fast talking salesmen. I'm disgusted with myself for falling for this!
Susan L.
May 30, 2019

What is we just upgraded and are still paying?
Veronica S.
Jun 08, 2019

We live in Sydney, Australia and we were recently scammed by Wyndham while trying to exit our ownership of two timeshares. Currently, we have been referred to Ovation and we are dealing with an agent who never answers our calls but respond via email with excuses as to why she wasn’t able to talk to us. After reading through the devastating experiences that so many people have gone through who are residents if the US or Canada, I’m wondering if there are any owners going trying to exit their timeshare/s from Australia and if so how they are progressing?
Boniface D.
Jun 08, 2019

Thank you Kathy B for the info I really appreciate it and will call them as soon as possible. I will let you know how it turns out.
Dianne
bonifaced wrote:
So how does the Ovation program work? I live in Canada and I pay over $200 a month Canadian in maintenance fees to Wyndham Worldmark that I have owned since 1993 and it is killing me. I was going to try and sell it myself or rent some of my weeks etc but it is such a hassle and I just lost my husband and I am not up to all this. I just want to find out how to use this Ovation. Any information that you can give me would be very appreciated.
Thank you. D.
garm2 wrote:
kathyb969 .....I think my post answers your question. Like it says, we used the ovation program and made a clean break. We didn't get any return on our points or ownership, but we are totally out from under the property and have no maintenance fees anymore, which were getting out of hand. All it took was one call and they led us through the rest. Call and see if it works for you.
E G.
Jul 27, 2019 (edited)

Trying to make the best of a bad situation and use the timeshares as much as possible after relieving 70+ year old mama fighting cancer of them (She survived!) While growing up took vacations every year through the timeshare system, so I knew a lot but thought it might be ok to hear them out (possibly upgrade a little) on new things during their “owners meetings”…. BS... Soon after I spoke to the new Ovation department and was told that I had to have my loan on newly purchased access points paid off for an entire year BEFORE they would even consider letting me surrender. The year waiting period was a surprise as it hadn’t been disclosed when I purchased the points. I had bought the small group of points to add to mom’s old but converted Fairfield Glade deeds. After paying the $600ish to transfer the 2 deeds into my name they wrote up one of them differently and the ovation person said I was going to have trouble with it for some reason. If this redweek site is legitimate and it is a place where people can understand the situation better, discover why they should avoid it at all costs initially, maybe work to improve it, and buy/sell, I appreciate it very much. I have to take responsibility for being trusting, open and honest and not business-savvy. Good lesson but at what expense? Generations to come are bound by these manipulative, deceptive practices? They won’t normally deal with you at all unless both you and your spouse are there but I shared with the sales department enough times that I wouldn’t be traveling with my spouse ever. The first time they sent me home with a ton of paperwork for him to sign and we never responded. The next time they saw me they came up with another approach to help for about 50% less cost than the previous situation. They promised the world and how I would be able to offset so much with the rewards card, which I didn’t end up qualifying for, and said I could use my now Bigger point balance to cover my maintenance fees. They don’t tell you at the time that almost a years worth of points barely covers a SINGLE month of maintenance fees. Somehow they used my husbands PayPal account for the loan but he wasn’t even there. It wasn’t until I tried to interact with PayPal that I realized it. I still pay it because I don’t want to hurt him but that seems like it crosses the line even more than their normal manipulations. I told them I only had a couple hundred dollars of disposable cash to survive on every month and they qualified me using his account?? Now because of the ovation limitations and the rising fees and mortgage interest costs every month I can’t afford to really vacation or do anything else even with a couple extra side jobs. I don’t know what I’m gonna do when I have to replace my new-to-me, 20-year-old car. I think I have read one current comment that Wyndham considered taking their location at the Glade back, which surprises me. They really tried hard to charge me, equal to that of the points already paid for and attached b/c mom had converted the deeds usage to points before Wyndham bought Fairfield. They wanted to charge me market value cost to simply replace those deeds thus showing they were empty pieces of paper. So for now I’m holding onto them but they threaten that the fees will continue to rise on them more-so than the Access only point fees. Not sure if Glade deeds are on the Ovation wanted list or if its changed, so any experiences shared are appreciated.
Valerie I.
Aug 23, 2019

WE are 2 years into our ownership and have never really used our Wyndham timeshare. We are at a low tier level (silver) but we own $13,000 on our original contracted amount. We want out! We feel like we have no way out! They want even more out of us! We have already invested about $14,000. What can they do to us if we walk away?
Rick S.
Aug 24, 2019 (edited)

Ovation is no help. We still owe on our worldmark, we were given the numbers for the resellers, and that was it There is a whydam cares website but they did nothing either for us. It seems my only option is to stop paying and let then try to collect. sure we will get a credit hit but at some point the contract will be put into foreclosure. After many calls to worldmark I finally got to the finance dept. And was told they do not garnish or try to put leans on things. What would happen is it would go to collections then after six to eight month foreclose. So be it.
Neil P.
Aug 27, 2019 (edited)

I think it's ridiculous to congratulate Wyndham for this program. This program is 10 years overdue. The article also fails to state that seeking assistance from a third-party, or law firm to exit Wyndham will result in your application being denied. Wyndham prohibits Timeshare Cancellation companies or law firms from assisting Wyndham owners with going through this process. Why? They do not broadcast it, nor even offer it when owners call, so how do they learn if not from other industry experts? This happens often because Wyndham, as stated in the article, they do not broadcast this program, more likely scared that if they did, too many people would be willing to cut/accept their losses and run. Still cannot make sense of why a law firm or third party is prohibited in helping a Wyndham customer wanting to exit, find this program or complete the process of this program. They are taking back inventory sold for 10's of thousands of dollars for free. I am sure Ford or Chevy would like to do that!!!! I know, I know, people will say it's not the same, lol, You are right so they should stop selling this crap! Wyndham should take a look at Hilton and Marriott, they do not need an ovations program. Wonder why???? Truly get out of your Wyndham while you can. This program will end when they have their fill and owners will be back to square one trying to escape. Accept the loss, move on, there are now hundreds of other alternative travel mediums available via the internet and none will require your firstborn to cancel.
Lori F.
Sep 01, 2019

No! They don’t. They are holding us hostage.
Mark S.
Sep 12, 2019 (edited)

No they will only take it back if there is a $0 balance on the loan. Which makes no sense why would I give something back that I don't owe any money on
Jenni M.
Oct 02, 2019

My name is Jennifer and I have ended up with 35,000 credits as part of my divorce settlement but I am not able to continue paying levies for Holidays I am unable to take and would like to sell or give credits back I'm interested in Ovation by Wyndam but would like to conduct negotiatons via email and phone connection is very limited where I am. Have not been able to find an email address to proceed.
Pam A.
Oct 03, 2019 (edited)

I need help desperately.weve only had our timeshare for 2 years but can’t afford it my husband has diabetes so it’s either meds or the payment and Wyndham won’t let me out of contract.
Bill B.
Oct 04, 2019

Wyndham is a sham. When I bo ught my Time Share the syshter salesmen lied at everyrthing . They got pissed at my refusals to agree to certain things. Dont why i bought this thing that has caused me tremendous financial problems. They only that care about is that they get their money. They dont care that they have and are ruining lives. This company is not controlled by anyone. They have no one to check their lying salesmen. I will provide more horror stories later. Just dont buy from these dishonest People.
Bill B.
Oct 04, 2019

Wyndham is a sham. When I bo ught my Time Share the syshter salesmen lied at everyrthing . They got pissed at my refusals to agree to certain things. Dont why i bought this thing that has caused me tremendous financial problems. They only that care about is that they get their money. They dont care that they have and are ruining lives. This company is not controlled by anyone. They have no one to check their lying salesmen. I will provide more horror stories later. Just dont buy from these dishonest People.
Cheryl D.
Oct 20, 2019

We recently went to one of the dreaded update sessions while on vacation. You know the 1 hour update that takes one vacation day! We inquired about the ovation program because my husband and mother in law co-own a Wyndham time share and he is disabled and her health is failing quickly. We were told we have to spend $23K to move to the access program in order to use the Ovation program. Did anybody else have to move from select to access?
Richard M.
Oct 20, 2019

Have been a Wyndham owner for about 15 years and have moved to my vacation home so I no longer need my timeshare. Plan to call Wyndham on Monday about the Ovation program. Will keep you posted
Juan R.
Nov 12, 2019

Well guys, almost paid 4k just to give them back to Wyndham. I own 450,000 points at Ocean BLVD Myrtle Beach. Thank Goodness I ran into this article and the phone numbers below. Will try to call tomorrow and keep you posted. Thanks everyone.
Elizabeth K.
Nov 12, 2019

To people who have used Ovation to get rid of Wyndham points, were there any tricks in the paperwork? Did you feel a need to hire an attorney to review before signing?
Peter B.
Nov 20, 2019

I am interested in pursuing the Ovation option, how do I contact them?
Sandra S.
Nov 25, 2019

I am ininterested. I have been burnt twice and am sick of the current situation
Douglas G.
Nov 27, 2019 (edited)

I would really like to get rid of my world mark membership. The concept is really slavery than ownership. The so called owner doesnt really have any relevant control in dues and fees when his mortgage is paid. The cost of the house keeping fee is really getting out of control with the club charging tax on the house keeping fee that wasn't done previously not very long ago.. The concept is like cc rewards programs. They take big chuck and give back a sliver of what they take and make you feel you got a really good deal. My only obstacle in divesting out of it is because of my wife who thinks this is the greatest thing since sliced bread. I'm looking at the cost and she looking at the benefit.. We only use this at least once a year and there has been some years we have used it.. Frustrated with her as she thinks such a small benefit is great..
John K.
Dec 03, 2019

We have owned several Shell Vacation Club timeshares for 14 years plus. They are paid for and because of a dibilitating disease, my wife and I can no longer use them or afford the fees. We desperately need help to sell them or even give them back. Can someone give me some advice.
Eric B.
Dec 28, 2019 (edited)

After being a WorldMark, then a WorldMark by Wyndham owner for over 20 years, I am embarrassed that I ever entered into a contract for the timeshare. It should be a crime in every state to suffer through the sales process of these time shares. A notice should be mandatory and provided to each and every person, on a singular page, up front and on top of the purchase contract, who is considering a time share warning them of the financial consequences of purchasing the time share. The warning should include the limitless increase of the dues, the every growing numbers of people who will become owners, along with the negative amortization to the value of the points they are purchasing through the mortgage they are accessing. It should also include wether there is a way to sell this share that they own.
If they cannot sell it, how can it be that they own it? The legal system should demand that something so easily sold also either be easily sold again, or should provide significant warning as to the impact of purchase up front.
I regret that I ever purchased the time share contract. And, to add insult to injury, I got caught up two more times before I looked diligently at the contract. The two additional sales were for shares less costly. Foolishly I thought I was reducing the cost over time. I just did not realize the value of the shares were already zero because no one reputable would want to purchase them from me because of the structure of the shares.
I am constantly surprised at the rise in maintenance dues. I now pay monthly what I originally paid annually.
At what point will the Attorney Generals come knocking? Unfortunately, any Attorney General action ignores and does not provide for recovery for the owners. It is nearly impossible for individuals to consider a class action law suit. Even after the last attempt at bait and switch that I suffered through, I was incensed but did not consider an attorney.
I think it is in the best interest of these time share companies to quickly come up with financial solutions that can return some amount of money to owners who are tired and feel taken advantage of. The States should either expect solutions or demand that some kind of market is created for timeshare owners. I think it only moral for Time Share companies to begin thinking broadly and address the lies in their presentations and communicate the fraud of time share ownership. Time share owners merely become liable for poor management and terrible real estate selection through monthly expenses. There is no real value in the ownership except fleeting visits to the corporate locations where they can see the aging of the real estate they are paying to maintain.
As a Time Share owner, I already know that the resell value to the market is zero. The only things left for me to lose is my current monthly expenses and the remainder of my debt. Once the mortgage is paid, I will have nothing to lose as I make complaints and demand legislators make reasonable changes.
This is the last area for "highway robbery" that continues to be illegal. It should be shut down or the Attorney Generals should at least warn these companies that the scam will come quickly to an end.
Donna S.
Jan 11, 2020 (edited)

We contacted Wyndham about Ovation. They will take back some of the timeshare and give you absolutely nothing for it. We've paid over $150k for property. Why would we give it back for free?
We contacted the resale company that Wyndham suggested. They said we could sell Myrtle Beach with 221k in points. Worth only $150. What a scam. Owners are losers again.
Brittney B.
Feb 15, 2020

Hi!
Current Wyndham owner and want out. I’ve contacted ovation but haven’t heard back. Anyone have helpful tips on how to get out ASAP?
Ecooney007
Feb 19, 2020 (edited)

Just completed the Ovation Title Transfer process back to Wyndham. It was very easy, besides having to get a notary on the title transfer documentation with two witnesses. They were actually very helpful. My wife and I purchased ours in FL on our honeymoon 1998, went to the location only once, tried to use our week (we had every other year, but you pay the taxes and fees every year) to switch to other properties with alot of difficulty especially after they switched from weeks to points. When we tried to use our week later on, they always tried to get us to switch to points for a only like a $15,000 conversion fee. Sheesh. So all these years we had been paying the annual tax bill, and at first it wasn't alot of money, but our last one was close to $600.00 and I would get so angry every time I saw that annual bill. We are done with it thankfully. Again the Ovation process was easy. There are many companies that make it seem as though you need to pay them thousands of dollars to get them to do the work to transfer the title back or sell it (really give it away), but with Ovation, I didn't pay a dime. Some things to note; The title transfer documentation is time sensitive - although you have probably been paying the taxes and fees for several years, they require you to get the notary and fill in and send back the information within 2-3 weeks of getting the paperwork, just be mindful of that. Also, they now have to do a check in their system to see if your Wyndham property even offers the Ovation Program, so if you are thinking about using it, call them soon! Again, Ovation made it easy, I knew I would never be able to sell our week, every other year, and I didn't pay some third party company to do it.
Bill D.
Apr 07, 2020

Has anyone used Fidelity Real Estate to sell there World Mark by Windham points? Bill
Diane E.
May 16, 2020

If you are an owner at Carriage Ridge or Carriage Hills, which are both Wyndham properties but have been locked out of the Ovation program, please go to https://www.chcrowners.org to see what the action has been taking place lately in hopes of an exit option. There is also a private Facebook group called Carriage Hills and Carriage Ridge Owners.
Ram K.
Aug 15, 2020

Need help with Wyndham exit
Ram K.
Aug 15, 2020

Need help with exit, they are ruin my credit history, after stealing my 4,700 dollars, still they are not leaving and ruining my credit history .
Lance C.
Aug 16, 2020

Have you contacted Wyndham about its Ovations exit program? (855) 312-9040 http://myclubwyndham.com/ovation
To whom did you pay $4700?
Do you still owe money on the mortgage or on maintenance fees?
Amalena E.
Aug 19, 2020

AS wyndham owners we had to purchase extra points to enter the Ovation program and still have not been able to get rid of any points or sell back any of our timeshare.
Mark A.
Sep 11, 2020

A basic principle of investing: “If it cant be understood in about one minute..it’s bull ****.” And this applies to the ridiculous complexity of the time share benefits and various programs that have your head swimming any time you attend a sales pitch presentation.
Mark A.
Sep 11, 2020

👹👹The easiest way..by far..to get rid of a time share..QUIT paying the dues...exactly the same way you might stop paying a mortgage or a car loan. You will not be sued...you will not be thrown in jail..you will not be beat up. But you will lose your timeshare...similar to a foreclosure. Your credit will be damaged for a few years. So what? I am retired, my house is fully paid for, if I buy a new car I will pay cash for it. I don’t use credit...I don’t need credit. But I do predict one future day being sick of paying maintenance dues on a time share I will stop using in the future...and when that day arrives I will not pay any more money to anyone for anything. I will simply stop making any payments to the time share and I suggest you do the same.
Mark A.
Sep 11, 2020 (edited)

👹Everyone seems to believe they are trapped in their time share. Where did this idea come from? If you want out of your time share...stop paying...stop paying...stop paying. Then, the time share repossesses your time share and dings your credit for a few years. Let them!! I can’t believe anyone would pay anyone several thousand dollars for the privilege of giving away their time share. And the time share is not hurt.. not hurt...not hurt. They just have to find another buyer....and if it’s such a fabulous thing to own like they say it is...they won’t have any problem re-selling it. You are the little guy trying to get by. The time share is the powerful big guy with lots of money and all the big promises. I know what side I am on. What side are you on? ? The time share company won’t like this notion...but if you are a salesman selling time shares, you should love this because you will have more shares to be able to sell!!! Get it ?
Mark A.
Sep 13, 2020 (edited)

Face facts..selling your time share is about impossible. The time share company has some idiotic program where you pay them additional exit fee type money...and however that works.. it works in their favor...not yours. See my related posts here. Your way out is STOP PAYING .STOP PAYING..STOP PAYING. Stop paying your dues and walk away. There is an exit program...which costs you more money to use...and you most likely wont qualify for it. ABSURD
Julie T.
Oct 07, 2020

looking to sell 5000 SVC points.. posting shortly. I like SVC but I am at heart a Worldmark owner and have my bucket of travel with that program. Buy aftermarket. never developer or you will not get your money back. With points based systems you need to buy enough points to keep your membership dues under control... The exchange options with II and RCI are phenomenal. SVC and Worldmark have lots of leverage.
Brian K.
Oct 30, 2020

it took us almost a year. I didn’t want my wife to unfairly get stuck with maintenance fees should I die. I’ve stayed at the condo 31 times and I love it, but i has to get away from these dishonest people. I had to give up this years week and give them my about $1000 maintenance fee to do so. They said I could enroll in something like RCI and use that week but pay hundreds of dollars more to do so. Then, who’s to say we would find a good accommodation anywhere. After a million phone calls they sent a letter saying it’s done but if they have any title problems they can come back to us. They said to call the Bureau of convenience in Kona and they would give a copy of the title transfer, but they couldn’t. To conclude, I strongly suggest that you do it and get away from these con people. I won’t give up until i get my $1000 back.
Joyce C.
Dec 17, 2020

Beginning ovation process .hopeful a non stressful event .
Carol F.
Dec 17, 2020

Can anyone who has gone through the Ovation by Wyndam exit program share their documents? I've qualified for the program, but it sounds like I may not receive any info for 4-7 weeks, and then need to turn it around fairly quickly. Thus I would like to review a "draft" to see what it actually says before committing to the program. Thx so much!
Heather M.
Feb 05, 2021 (edited)

A few hard truths from someone currently going through the process.We've been Worldmark by Wyndham owners for about 5 years, and have been extremely disappointed with the lack of inventory, constantly increasing fees, and arbitrary changes to the rules (housekeeping tokens have to apply to 1st stay of the year, etc). Fyi, we're paid in full for our points. We started the Ovation process in early October, requesting option 3 above. We were told we don't qualify for that option. Unfortunately, my husband made the call and can't explain to me why. He went ahead with option 2, and our ability to reserve using our banked points was shut off immediately. But fees continued. Someone here mentioned it taking 3 weeks to get the paperwork. It took a full 3 months for us to receive the email with a 1 page standard form. 19 days after their title office received it in mid January (signed and sent via Fedex), they charged our fees again. Now, my husband tells me the original email he received says the paperwork has to be notarized, but the woman he spoke to when he called said it did not.This was unclear in the email that came with the form. We certainly didn't need a notary to sign up, so if it is required, their claim of wanting to give us the same rights at exit as at entry is suspect. We live in California, so are hopeful that some consumer-facing law, as we tend to have here, kept us from needing a notary. When he made the call and they shut off our account, they did not speak to me. If they do need notarized forms, it seems odd that they can shut off the use of the points (but continue to charge fees for months) with just a verbal from one of two owners.
Elwood P.
Feb 05, 2021

I would be interested in phasing out my time share points..
using wyndham resort with out paying maintenance for 15 years would help to recover the $34000.00 in initial purchase. anything less would be scamming the owners out of our intitial purchase. we were told upon purchase that we have title to the said Wyndham properties otherwise there should be a class act lawsuit against wyndham for douping people out of our retirement savings
Gerald S.
Feb 22, 2021 (edited)

I would like to try the ovation program,no morgrage& up to date on Matinice
Linda M.
Mar 19, 2021

We owned a timeshare with Wyndham (paid cash). We "returned" ours through the Ovation process. We requested the form. They sent it, we signed it, dated it, notarized it, sent it back. They "released" us of it. (thy DO NOT buy it back - you forfeit what you paid for it, fortunately we utilized ours for years - so we "looked" at it as breaking even) - in return - No more fees, taxes or dues. We were very worried about the "timeshare trap" But Wyndham made it very simple. From what I understand, if you own with Wyndham - "you're" one of the "lucky" ones. Not sure the "other" timeshares offer the Ovation option. Been timeshare free for 3 years. They were true-to-their-word. Have not received any further obligations, news letters, maintenance fees or correspondence. Ovation truly was a blessing.
Dennis D.
Apr 20, 2021

My wife and I attended what we thought was an update meeting at Club Wyndham in Branson ,Mo. at the Mountain Visa resort on 04/19/2021. During the get to know you portion I mention we were interested in learning about the Ovation Program. The Representative immediately dismissed himself and after a few short minutes a second representative showed up stating he was the guy that talked to disgruntle owners. I did not know I was disgruntle.
He began to tell me why I could not get out of my timeshare. We paid cash when we bought way back in 2000. He wanted to know if we ever brought our kids to one of the resorts. I said our kids were grown and vacationed where they wanted and did not care about coming to Wyndham. He stated no wonder your kids did not like Wyndham as I had never brought them. He went on to question my life and was very insulting. My anger became so great I had to walk out. I learned that the Ovation Program was only for people that had disastrously sickness and had not used their timeshare in a long while. We were told we were using ours. Please remember I just mentioned Ovation Program and wanted to know more.
We have been owners for twenty years and the most disliked portion has been high pressure sales presentations and update meetings. I did find out we did not have to attend these meeting and offered for us to leave.
I state all this so others might know how I was treated by mentioning Ovation Program and was seeking information. I would say to the CEO of Wyndham that your program is not working very well.
Hope everyone else has a better experience and could give me some pointers on whom to contact. I want out after this experience.
Dennis D.
Brenda F.
Apr 20, 2021

Dear Linda M - the way you describe your experience with the ownership AND the exit with ovation is a mirror image of how my husband and I had our experience. We were very pleased to have owned when we did and were ready to ‘break even’ about 2018 as well and we did that very thing. It took a couple of months to send correspondence back and forth and notarize and once done it was indeed DONE :) hoping others on here have the same experience as you and we did. Take Care and May God Bless!
lindam1953 wrote:
We owned a timeshare with Wyndham (paid cash). We "returned" ours through the Ovation process. We requested the form. They sent it, we signed it, dated it, notarized it, sent it back. They "released" us of it. (thy DO NOT buy it back - you forfeit what you paid for it, fortunately we utilized ours for years - so we "looked" at it as breaking even) - in return - No more fees, taxes or dues. We were very worried about the "timeshare trap" But Wyndham made it very simple. From what I understand, if you own with Wyndham - "you're" one of the "lucky" ones. Not sure the "other" timeshares offer the Ovation option. Been timeshare free for 3 years. They were true-to-their-word. Have not received any further obligations, news letters, maintenance fees or correspondence. Ovation truly was a blessing.
Jessica K.
May 10, 2021

Wyndham is a scam. We requested paperwork to start the exit process in July 2020 and “due to COVID” they didn’t send us the paperwork until March 2021 despite numerous phone calls Following up on the paperwork. We quickly completed the paperwork and mailed It back via certified mail. They gave us the runaround saying the process has not been finalized and we are still on the hook for 2021 maintenance fees despite request for financial assistance due to COVID. They sent the “agreement” outlining the process to an unused email address so we never received it. They are unclear about the process and use every delay tactic to prolong the exit process and threaten you with collections. And on top of that 3 of the 4 reps I spoke with were hostile and disrespectfully raising their voices when I was asking why we received a maintenance delinquency notice after we had returned the paperwork well before the due date. They are a scam and I regret ever entering into contract with these people! They should be investigated for fraudulent activity!
Thomas W. B.
May 28, 2021 (edited)

We were owners of about 2,000,000 points, almost all purchased at resale. For several years, I successfully "rented" points which meant transferring points to someone else's account so they could use them as they chose. Then Wyndham stopped allowing that. Next, I was able to "rent" points by booking reservations from my account, taking advantage of Platinum discounts and upgrades. This was aided by having points in different use-years. If a reservation made in one use-year was canceled, the points generally rolled over into another use year. In that way, points could be kept from expiring if they were not rented. Then Wyndham stopped allowing that. Over the years Wyndham introduced more and more "enhancements" which really were ways to keep owners from being able to use their points. Many people on this forum have mentioned the difficulty in booking reservations at the time and place they desire. It reached the point that I really could not use my points, and the ever-increasing maintenance fees became a huge burden. Then came the Ovation program. When I learned of it, I contacted Wyndham. They were willing to take back everything EXCEPT four weeks at Fairfield Plantation. The paperwork arrived in about six weeks ready to be signed and notarized. We took care of that and returned the paperwork. A few weeks later, we no longer owned the bulk of our timeshare portfolio. It went as promised (probably the ONLY thing that has gone as Wyndham promised) . Yes, we lost our "investment" in the weeks we purchased, but since we had purchased at a hugely discounted resale price, we were happy to lose that because it meant that the maintenance fees were gone. We are still stuck with our Fairfield Plantation weeks, though. My advice to those of you who are burdened by the maintenance fees and no longer use your units: just bite your lip and accept that you will not get back what you paid. Just move on. Take advantage of Ovation. Look forward to NO MAINTENANCE FEES! And get on with your life. Don't keep throwing good money after bad! More advice: don't plan on giving your timeshare to your kids. It will be just as much of a millstone around their necks as it is for you. Don't go to member updates when you stay at a resort. They always take longer than they promise, and you risk falling for more of the lies and false promises that they spew. We always unplug the phones in our unit first thing. That way we don't have to keep saying "no." They usually try to get you to commit to an update appointment when you get your parking pass. We either say that we have a busy schedule and we'll get back to them tomorrow to schedule our update, or sometimes we just skip the parking pass. At most resorts there really is no checking of parking passes. The timeshare industry preys on the innocent and uninformed. The salespeople lie and lie and lie. When will it end?
Craig B.
Mar 01, 2022

Just learned about the Ovations, now Certified Exit program. We have a fully paid deeded week at River Village II at Shawnee on Delaware, PA, which is a Wyndham property, but I don't know if or where it falls among the Wyndham clubs. Would our timeshare qualify?
Bobby C.
Mar 14, 2022

Bought with Wyndham in the early 2000’s . The regrets I have with them is the shouting matches I use to have with them when I went to book some time away with my family. They would never have anything available for a good long weekend or a week get away I would be willing to take . Then maintanence fees and house cleaning fees would be tossed into the loop this would make your points more . What a mess ! you could book maybe 1 week a year. Sad for all the money you pay.! The best getaways with Wyndham was to go to the resorts get the freebies and say hell no ! Can’t do it cause I got my own bills to pay and please get out of there. Unfortunately in the early 2000’s we melted to sales pitch in Nashville and got stuck . I booked with Williamsburg and had to go to another spill through Wyndham . The guy who talk to us through the spill said we needed more points . So we told him we couldn’t buy more because we had 2 kids in college cannot afford it . He himmed and hauled.!He said I don’t know why you want buy, we were stopping him from getting toys for his children at Christmastime . Really? That was definitely a turn off for me I told my husband time was up, let’s go. If you go to a spill when 90 minutes are up you can leave . Please Leave! Don’t stay they are trying to get you to sway. After so many years fighting with them booking time we wanted to get rid of it . Nobody I mean nobody was willing to take it back without paying them money. So , finally the great Wyndham decided they would take back there property as long as there were no strings attached otherwords they wanted the property paid off and in return through the ovation process we got nothing . So . Please read this don’t get attached say no that way you want be out of a lot of money.
Robert Y.
Oct 14, 2022

does Wyndham Own Hilton vacation club. I own at Sedona summit
Kenneth O.
Nov 14, 2022

Good Evening All, I already started my wyndham ovation exit program. Paid my timeshare in full last month 10yrs with 15% apr.smh. Now I got an email from wyndham regarding the deed application. Filing fee is about $710 and optional $250 title insurance. Do I need to apply deed in order to go through the ovation process. Asking for members with similar experience. Thank you
LaVada L.
Jul 12, 2023

People are so gullible! We have somehow managed to buy 1,000,000 pts in Wyndham and none of our kids want it. We are too old, can't travel as much, and are stuck with a timeshare that eats our lunch every month. The salespeople will tell you anything to make a sale and I think they take advantage of us older people. I hope something is done so that people can get smarter about timeshares and how hard they are to get rid of. I don't have much faith in Wyndham to help us get out of this nightmare we have created for ourselves.

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