Introduction
Many Bluegreen Vacations timeshare owners eventually find themselves wanting to cancel their contracts. Whether due to financial burdens, lack of use, or frustration with the system, getting out of a Bluegreen Points timeshare can be challenging. However, there are legal and effective ways to cancel your timeshare ownership. This guide will walk you through your options, including contract rescission, resale, deed-backs, and avoiding scams.
Understanding Your Bluegreen Points Timeshare Contract
Before you attempt to cancel your Bluegreen Points timeshare, it’s crucial to understand the details of your contract. Bluegreen operates on a points-based system, which allows owners to book vacations at various resorts. While this system offers flexibility, it also comes with maintenance fees, special assessments, and other costs that can become overwhelming.
Your contract is legally binding, and exiting it without following the proper procedures could lead to legal or financial consequences. It’s essential to know your rights and options before proceeding with cancellation.
Canceling During the Rescission Period
If you have recently purchased your Bluegreen Points timeshare, the easiest way to cancel is during the rescission period. This period is a legal timeframe during which new owners can cancel their contracts without penalty.
Important Details About the Rescission Period:
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The rescission period varies by state but typically lasts between 3 to 10 days.
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Your contract should outline the exact duration and cancellation instructions.
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To cancel, you must send a written notice to Bluegreen via certified mail before the deadline.
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Refunds are typically issued for any money paid upfront, minus any processing fees.
If you are within this timeframe, act quickly to ensure you meet the cancellation deadline.
Exiting After the Rescission Period
If the rescission period has passed, you will need to explore other cancellation options. Bluegreen does not allow owners to simply stop making payments or walk away from their timeshare, as this could result in debt collection efforts and damage to your credit.
1. Contact Bluegreen’s Certified Exit Program
Bluegreen offers an official Certified Exit Program that allows eligible owners to return their timeshare. The program has specific requirements, and approval is not guaranteed.
Steps to Apply for Bluegreen’s Exit Program:
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Call Bluegreen’s customer service department and request information about the exit program.
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Provide details about your ownership, including any outstanding payments.
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Follow Bluegreen’s guidelines, which may include financial settlements or contract transfers.
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Obtain written confirmation that your contract has been canceled.
This program is the safest way to exit your timeshare directly through Bluegreen.
2. Selling Your Bluegreen Points Timeshare
If you do not qualify for Bluegreen’s exit program, selling your timeshare might be an option. However, the resale market for timeshares is often weak, and you may need to sell at a significant loss.
Ways to Sell Your Bluegreen Points:
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Timeshare Resale Websites – List your timeshare on platforms like RedWeek, Timeshare Users Group (TUG), or eBay.
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Hire a Timeshare Broker – A licensed broker can assist in finding a buyer, but they typically charge a commission.
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Private Sale – If you know someone interested in purchasing a Bluegreen timeshare, you can arrange a direct sale.
Be realistic about pricing, as timeshares often resell for much less than their original purchase price.
3. Renting Out Your Timeshare
If canceling or selling isn’t immediately possible, renting out your timeshare could help cover maintenance fees. Some Bluegreen resorts allow owners to rent their timeshares through:
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Airbnb or VRBO (if permitted by Bluegreen policies)
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Timeshare rental websites such as RedWeek
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Personal networks or social media
This may not be a long-term solution, but it can help offset costs while you explore other options.
4. Negotiating a Deed-Back Option
Some Bluegreen owners may be able to negotiate a deed-back agreement, which allows them to return their timeshare to the company.
Steps to Request a Deed-Back:
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Contact Bluegreen’s customer service and inquire about deed-back options.
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Provide ownership details and financial information.
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Complete any necessary paperwork to transfer the timeshare back.
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Obtain written confirmation of the agreement.
Not all owners qualify for a deed-back, but it’s worth exploring.
Avoiding Timeshare Exit Scams
If you’re desperate to cancel your Bluegreen Points timeshare, you might be tempted to hire a third-party exit company. However, many of these companies are scams that charge high fees without delivering results.
Red Flags of Timeshare Exit Scams:
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Upfront Fees – Legitimate services typically do not charge large fees before providing results.
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Guaranteed Cancellation Promises – No company can guarantee a cancellation without reviewing your contract.
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High-Pressure Sales Tactics – Be cautious if a company pressures you into signing quickly.
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Lack of Transparency – Always verify a company’s credentials with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) before proceeding.
If you’re unsure, seek advice from a legal professional before hiring a third-party service.
Legal Assistance for Timeshare Cancellation
If you’re unable to cancel through Bluegreen’s exit program or sell your timeshare, consulting a timeshare attorney may be necessary. A lawyer can:
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Review your contract for potential exit opportunities.
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Negotiate with Bluegreen on your behalf.
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Represent you in legal proceedings if needed.
Legal fees may apply, but working with an experienced attorney can help you exit your timeshare legally and effectively.
Final Thoughts
Canceling a Bluegreen Points timeshare can be complicated, but it is possible with the right approach. If you’re within the rescission period, canceling is straightforward. Otherwise, you may need to explore Bluegreen’s Certified Exit Program, resale, renting, or legal assistance.