If you own a timeshare and no longer want it – perhaps because of rising maintenance fees, less travel, or just a change in plans – selling it can feel like a big relief. The phrase legitimate companies that buy timeshares is very popular in searches, especially in the United States. However, most companies do not actually buy your timeshare outright. Instead, they act as brokers or marketplaces. They help you list and sell your timeshare to a real buyer, usually taking a commission only when the sale is complete.
The timeshare resale market can be tricky, with many scams around. In 2026, the good news is that there are several trusted, long-established companies with strong reputations. This article explains everything in clear, easy UK English: what these companies do, the best legitimate options, how the process works, how to avoid scams, and other ways to get out of a timeshare.
What Does “Buy Timeshares” Really Mean?
Timeshares give you the right to use a holiday property (or points for different resorts) for a set time each year. Popular brands include Marriott, Hilton, Wyndham, Disney Vacation Club, and Bluegreen.
Very few companies buy timeshares directly for cash. Timeshares often lose a lot of value after purchase (sometimes 50-70% less than the original price), so direct buyers are rare. Legitimate companies usually:
- List your timeshare on their website or network.
- Advertise it to potential buyers.
- Handle paperwork, payments, and legal transfer.
- Charge a fee (commission) only after the sale goes through – no big upfront costs.
This is the safe way. Always avoid any company that asks for large payments before doing any work.
How to Spot a Genuine Company
Look for these signs of a trustworthy firm:
- High BBB rating (Better Business Bureau) – preferably A+ with few complaints.
- ARDA membership – the American Resort Development Association sets ethical rules for the industry.
- No upfront fees – they earn money only when you sell.
- Licensed real estate agents – especially important in states like Florida.
- Good reviews on trusted sites like Trustpilot, Google, or ConsumerAffairs.
- Clear website with real contact details and examples of past sales.
You can check these details yourself on the BBB website or ARDA.org.
Top Legitimate Companies for Selling Timeshares in 2026
Here are some of the most respected names right now, based on recent reviews, BBB ratings, and owner feedback. These companies focus on resale (helping you sell to a buyer) rather than direct purchase.
| Company Name | Main Strengths | Fees/Commission | Best For | BBB Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Timeshares Only | Over 30 years in business; very active marketplace; works with big brands | Commission only (no upfront fees) | All major brands (Marriott, Hilton, Disney) | A+ |
| Fidelity Real Estate | Licensed agents; strong with luxury resorts; helps with developer rules (ROFR) | Around 10% commission after sale | Premium properties (Disney, Hyatt, Hilton) | A+ |
| RedWeek | Huge owner-to-owner marketplace; no middleman | Low listing fee (around $15–60 per year) | High-demand resorts; DIY sellers | A+ |
| SellMyTimeshareNow | Over $5 billion in offers sent; global reach | Commission on successful sale | Large choice; Wyndham, Disney | A |
| Timeshare Broker Associates | ARDA-accredited; good links with top brands | 5–10% commission; no advance fees | Hilton, Marriott, Bluegreen | A+ |
| Timeshare Professionals Inc | 30+ years; licensed pros; no upfront fees | Commission-based | General sales; helpful FAQs | A |
- Timeshares Only and Fidelity Real Estate often team up – one helps find buyers, the other handles the legal closing.
- RedWeek is great if you want to sell directly to another owner and keep more of the money.
- SellMyTimeshareNow has a very large database and lots of marketing.
These firms are regularly praised for being honest and effective. Many owners report successful sales through them, especially for popular resorts.
Step-by-Step: How to Sell Your Timeshare Safely
- Get a free valuation – Contact 2–3 companies above. They will look at your deed, resort, and current market to give an idea of value.
- Choose a company – Pick one with no upfront fees and good reviews.
- List your timeshare – Provide photos, details, and sign a simple agreement.
- Wait for buyers – The company markets your timeshare. This can take 3–12 months.
- Accept an offer – Negotiate if needed. Some resorts have a “Right of First Refusal” (ROFR) where the developer can match the offer.
- Close the sale – A trusted title company handles paperwork. You get paid (minus commission) and the new owner takes over fees.
High-demand places (like Disney or beach resorts) usually sell quicker.
Watch Out for Scams
Sadly, the timeshare world has lots of fraud. Common tricks include:
- Companies promising a quick sale for a big upfront fee.
- Unsolicited phone calls or emails offering “guaranteed” buyers.
- Fake government agencies or lawyers.
Always:
- Never pay large sums before any work is done.
- Check the company on BBB.org.
- Avoid anyone who pressures you to decide fast.
If something feels wrong, report it to the FTC (US Federal Trade Commission) or your local consumer protection office.
Other Options: Timeshare Exit Companies
If your timeshare is hard to sell (low value or high fees), some people use “exit” companies. These firms negotiate with the resort to cancel your contract legally. Examples in 2026 include:
- Linx Legal – Attorney-based; good reviews.
- Vacation Ownership Consultants – Long history; focuses on fair exits.
- Resort Victory or similar – Check for A+ BBB ratings.
Exit companies charge fees (often $3,000–$10,000), but legitimate ones offer money-back guarantees if they fail. This is different from selling – you usually don’t get money back, but you stop paying fees.
Final Thoughts
Selling a timeshare is possible in 2026 if you use legitimate companies like Timeshares Only, Fidelity Real Estate, RedWeek, or SellMyTimeshareNow. These trusted names help thousands of owners every year without asking for big upfront payments.
Start by getting free quotes from a couple of them. Check their BBB page and read real owner stories. With patience and the right help, you can say goodbye to unwanted fees and enjoy peace of mind.
