The government of Canada has issued a new travel advisory for Canadians to be aware of high pressure sales tactics used to sell timeshares in Mexico.
In a new advisory, the Government of Canada is informing its citizens to do their homework and be diligent before signing any timeshare contracts.
If you’ve traveled to Mexico, you’ve most likely come across salesmen offering free meals, spa days or even free hotel stays in exchange for attending a timeshare presentation. The following guidelines will help protect you from fraud or illegal contracts.
The Government of Canada warns “Problems with timeshare arrangements occur.”
“Timeshare representatives may be very persistent. They use pressure tactics and offer free tours, meals, gifts or alcoholic beverages.”
“It is illegal for timeshare companies to ask you to sign a waiver that prevents you from cancelling a contract.” the official advisory states. “You are legally entitled to cancel a timeshare contract without penalty within five working days.”
Contracts must be cancelled in writing directly with the timeshare company.
The Canada travel advisory for Mexico also provided tips on thier website on what you should do before purchasing a timeshare.
Before purchasing a timeshare:
- gather as much information as possible
- review carefully the contract; anything not included in the contract will not be honored
- provide your credit card only if you are sure you want to make the purchase
- keep copies of all correspondence
If you suspect a fraud in the real estate procedures, contact the Mexican Government at the Federal Attorney’s Office of Consumer – immediately.
Source: https://www.traveloffpath.com
2 comments
Canadian Wyndham Carriage Hills and Carriage Resorts timeshare will not even allow a medical hardship release. The original marketing flyer said “Freeze the cost of future vacations” yet maintenance fees have risen from $600 to $1500 as retirement income drops. The flyer also said “Worry free vacations” and “Equity $ position” yet Stephanie’s grandmother Sandra is distraught worrying about vacation maintenance fees. Her husband Gary’s pension must be turned over to his skilled care facility. In response to my Inside Timeshare article back in September, I received 131 emails from Canadian residents, Carriage owners, betrayed by false advertising. On Friday I will publish my 10th article about the tragedy of Canada’s consumer protection turning their back on their residents held timeshare hostage. One symptom of Elder Abuse is Financial Exploitation. No one wants to tamper with incoming revenue so point the finger elsewhere. As the late Indian Jesuit priest and psychotherapist Anthony DeMello said, “I’m pointing to the moon and you’re staring at the end of my finger.” Reading the contract would not have helped Carriage Ridge owners. You can’t blame them for believing published marketing materials.
I’m glad the government is raising red flags, but it’s rather lame to say “do your homework” before buying. We all did our homework but these companies are convincing and we (timeshare buyers) still got caught in their deceptive promises. The government should put a stop to the unethical marketing of both timeshare companies and the “exit consultants” waiting in the wings ready to take your money with more false promises.
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