What can I do with my timeshare while waiting to relinquish it? Options for fees and use

You’ve decided your timeshare no longer works for you and you’ve discovered that you may be able to hand the contract back to the resort — often referred to as a timeshare relinquishment.

For many owners, annual maintenance fees are the main reason for wanting to exit. That’s understandable: if you’re not using the timeshare (or can’t use it), continuing to pay can feel pointless. At some stage you might consider — or be advised — to stop paying, but this is generally only recommended if you’re pursuing legal action against a resort and doing so under the guidance of a lawyer.

So, what options do you have with your timeshare while you’re waiting for the relinquishment to complete?

The first thing to check is when your next maintenance fees are due. Ideally, the process will be concluded before then. If the next payment deadline is approaching, here are a few practical ideas to consider.

1. Delay payment until the deadline

Resorts often send maintenance bills well ahead of the due date — sometimes months in advance. If you’ve received an invoice early, you may be able to wait until the actual deadline to pay. That could give your relinquishment more time to conclude before any money leaves your account.

2. Ask about staged payments

If you contact the resort before the deadline, you could try to agree a payment plan (for example, quarterly or monthly). Resorts are often more flexible when you’re offering to pay something, and a staged approach can reduce the immediate pressure. If the relinquishment completes part-way through, you may not need to pay the full amount in one go.

3. Rent it out

Renting out a timeshare isn’t always straightforward, but it can be done. Start by asking the resort about their rental rules; you may need to pay for a guest certificate or similar administration. You might only be able to rent for less than your maintenance fees, but that can still be better than paying the full cost with no return. To find potential renters, ask friends or family who might be interested in a low-cost holiday.

4. Use your exchange membership

If you pay fees to an exchange company such as RCI or II (as many owners do), it may be worth checking what exchanges are available while you’re still waiting. Popular destinations at peak times can be difficult to secure, but you don’t necessarily need an overseas swap. A short break closer to home may be easier to arrange and can be a cheaper alternative.

5. Use the timeshare yourself

You’re likely exiting because you’re unhappy with the timeshare, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use it while the process is ongoing. If your maintenance fees are up to date, you may decide to get some value from them by taking a trip. If you do visit the resort, be careful not to get drawn into an upgrade or the purchase of another timeshare during your stay.