It's almost too good to be true: you're announced as the lucky winner of a holiday! In exchange, you're simply asked to attend an information session.
But beware!
Chances are, they'll try to convince you to sign a contract entitling you to several years' worth of stays or cruises at various resorts. If this is the case, it's because they want you to sign up for a timeshare vacation.
Pressure selling, misleading representations, ever-increasing costs... timeshare vacation packages are a source of dissatisfaction for many consumers. Those who give in to temptation often find themselves stuck with onerous contracts that are difficult to cancel.
When you sign a timeshare contract, you commit yourself to paying for a vacation, year after year, until the contract expires. In addition to the high cost of points, there are many other fees. These often run into the hundreds of dollars, and must be paid even if you don't travel.
Before committing yourself to this type of arrangement, be careful! Make sure the merchant presents you with a detailed contract that accurately reflects the promises he has made to you. He must also give you a copy of the signed contract, together with a cancellation form.
You should also know that you have 10 days to cancel a timeshare contract, without charge or penalty. After this period, you can still cancel your contract, but you may have to pay compensation.
To find out more, visit the Office de la protection du consommateur website.
Take a look at the videoOption consommateurs produced with the financial support of the Office de la protection du consommateur, and don't hesitate to share it!
