Need to break free from your timeshare? A “Sample Letter To Try And Get Out Of A Timeshare” can be your first step. People use this letter when they want to end their timeshare contract. It’s often used when facing high fees or misleading sales tactics.
Writing this letter can feel daunting. Where do you even start? What should you include?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We’ll share sample letters and templates. Use them as a guide to craft your own escape letter.
Sample Letter To Try And Get Out Of A Timeshare
**Sample Letter To Try And Get Out Of A Timeshare**
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Timeshare Company Name]
[Timeshare Company Address]
**Subject: Request for Timeshare Contract Cancellation**
Dear [Timeshare Company Name],
This letter is to formally request the cancellation of my timeshare contract. My contract details are as follows:
* **Contract Number:** [Your Contract Number]
* **Resort Name:** [Resort Name]
* **Date of Purchase:** [Date of Purchase]
[Choose ONE or combine options, and tailor to your specific situation. Delete options that don’t apply to you.]
**Option 1: Recent Purchase (Cooling-Off Period)**
I am within the rescission period allowed by law in [State where timeshare was purchased]. I request immediate cancellation and a full refund of all monies paid.
**Option 2: Misrepresentation/High-Pressure Sales**
I believe the timeshare was misrepresented to me during the sales presentation. [Specifically describe the misrepresentation. E.g., “I was told the timeshare would easily rent out for a profit, which has not been the case.” or “I was pressured into signing the contract without sufficient time to review it.”].
**Option 3: Financial Hardship**
Due to unforeseen financial circumstances, I can no longer afford the maintenance fees and other associated costs of the timeshare. Continuing to own the timeshare will create a significant financial burden for my family. [Optional: Briefly explain the hardship, e.g., job loss, medical expenses].
**Option 4: Inability to Use Timeshare**
Despite my best efforts, I have been unable to book vacations at the resort during the times I requested. The limited availability makes the timeshare unusable for me.
[Continue with the following paragraphs:]
I request a written confirmation of the cancellation of my contract and a full refund of all payments made, if applicable.
I look forward to your prompt response and resolution to this matter. Please contact me at the phone number or email address listed above.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
How to Write a Letter To Try And Get Out Of A Timeshare
1. Crafting the Subject Line: The First Impression
Your subject line is your initial gambit. It needs to be succinct yet compelling enough to pique their interest without sounding hackneyed. Avoid generic phrases like “Timeshare Cancellation.” Instead, opt for something like:
- “Request for Timeshare Contract Recission – [Your Name] – Account [Your Account Number]”
- “Urgent: Timeshare Dissolution Inquiry – [Your Name], Account #[Your Account Number]”
A dash of gravitas can work wonders. The key is to immediately signal the letter’s purpose and your identity.
2. Salutation: Setting a Respectful Tone
Begin with a formal salutation. Even if you’re seething inside, politeness is paramount. Address the letter to a specific person if possible. Dig around; a name lends credibility.
- “Dear [Name of Timeshare Representative or Customer Relations Manager],”
- If a name is elusive, use: “To Whom It May Concern:”
Avoid overly familiar greetings. This isn’t a chat with a chum; it’s a formal request.
3. Identifying Information: Establishing Legitimacy
Rigorously identify yourself and your timeshare. This section is purely factual; leave the emotional appeals for later.
- State your full name(s) as it appears on the timeshare agreement.
- Include your timeshare account number.
- Specify the name of the timeshare resort.
- Note the date you purchased the timeshare.
- Mention the specific type of timeshare (e.g., fixed week, floating week, points-based).
Precision is key. Leave no room for ambiguity regarding the timeshare in question.
4. Articulating Your Grievances: The Heart of the Matter
This is where you delineate the reasons for your discontent. Be specific, avoid hyperbole, and focus on demonstrable issues.
- Misrepresentation: If the sales presentation was misleading, detail the specific misrepresentations. For example, “I was told that reselling the timeshare would be easy, which has proven demonstrably false.”
- Financial Hardship: If your financial situation has changed, explain how the maintenance fees are now an undue burden. Be prepared to provide documentation if requested.
- Unavailability: If you’ve consistently been unable to book desired dates, document your attempts and the reasons given for unavailability.
- Breach of Contract: If the timeshare company has violated the terms of the agreement, clearly outline the breach.
Support each grievance with concrete examples. Vague complaints are easily dismissed.
5. Proposing a Resolution: Laying Out Your Desired Outcome
Clearly state what you want: typically, to be released from your timeshare contract without further financial obligation.
- “I am formally requesting a complete rescission of my timeshare contract, account number [Your Account Number], with no further fees or assessments.”
- “I request to be released from all obligations associated with this timeshare, including future maintenance fees and special assessments.”
Be unambiguous. Leave no wiggle room for misinterpretation.
6. Expressing Conciliatory Intent: The Olive Branch
While you’re asserting your position, maintain a professional tone and suggest a willingness to cooperate.
- “I am hopeful that we can resolve this matter amicably and avoid further escalation.”
- “I am open to discussing potential solutions that would allow me to relinquish my timeshare ownership.”
This can soften your stance and make the recipient more receptive to your request.
7. Closing: A Professional Farewell
End with a formal closing and provide your contact information.
- “Sincerely,” or “Respectfully,”
- Your full name (typed)
- Your phone number
- Your email address
Proofread meticulously before sending. A polished, professional letter conveys seriousness and increases your chances of a favorable outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions: Timeshare Cancellation Letters
This section provides answers to common questions regarding writing a sample letter to attempt to cancel a timeshare agreement. Note that there is no guarantee of success, and consulting with a legal professional is always recommended.
What information should I include in my timeshare cancellation letter?
Your letter should include your name, address, timeshare contract number, a clear statement that you wish to cancel the contract, the date of purchase, and the reason for cancellation.
Where should I send the cancellation letter?
Send the letter to the timeshare company’s address as specified in your contract, preferably via certified mail with return receipt requested to ensure proof of delivery.
Is there a specific timeframe for sending a cancellation letter?
Yes, most timeshare contracts have a rescission period, typically ranging from a few days to a couple of weeks after the purchase date. You must send your cancellation letter within this timeframe.
What if I am outside of the rescission period?
If you are outside the rescission period, you can still send a cancellation letter, but your chances of success are significantly lower. You may need to explore other options, such as selling or transferring your timeshare.
Does sending a cancellation letter guarantee I will be released from my timeshare contract?
No, sending a cancellation letter does not guarantee release from the contract. The timeshare company may refuse your request, especially if you are outside the rescission period. You may need to seek legal advice if your request is denied.