Cancel Your Vistana Ownership by Submitting a Written Rescission Request

To cancel Vistana timeshare ownership, act within the rescission period (typically 5-15 days post-purchase) by sending a certified letter to the developer. Outside this window, options include selling, renting, or legal exit strategies. Costs and timelines vary by method.

Step-by-Step Cancellation Process

1. Check Your Rescission Period

  • Review your contract for the exact rescission deadline (state laws vary).
  • Count days from the purchase date-not the contract signing date.
  • Weekends/holidays usually count unless your state excludes them.

2. Write a Rescission Letter

  • Include:
    • Your full name and contact info.
    • Contract/purchase date and agreement number.
    • Clear statement: "I hereby rescind my timeshare contract."
    • Request written confirmation of cancellation.
  • Send via certified mail with return receipt (keep copies).

3. Send to the Correct Address

  • Use the rescission address in your contract (not the sales office).
  • Confirm delivery before the deadline-late letters void your rights.

4. Follow Up

  • Expect a written confirmation within 15-30 days.
  • Check your credit card/bank for refunds (typically 30-60 days).
  • If no response, send a second letter or consult a timeshare exit attorney.

Options If You Missed the Rescission Period

1. Sell Your Timeshare

  • List on resale platforms (expect 10-30% of purchase price).
  • Average sale time: 6-18 months.
  • Fees: Listing costs ($200-$1,000) + closing fees (5-10%).

2. Rent It Out

  • Use vacation rental sites to offset costs.
  • Typical rental income: 30-70% of maintenance fees.
  • Risk: No guaranteed tenants; platform fees apply.

3. Legal Exit Strategies

  • Timeshare exit companies: Charge $2,000-$10,000 (research legitimacy).
  • Attorney-assisted cancellation: Flat fees ($1,500-$5,000) or hourly rates.
  • Deed-back program: Some developers accept surrenders (may require fees).

4. Stop Payments (Last Resort)

  • Risk: Credit score damage, collections, or foreclosure.
  • Some owners negotiate a settlement (lump-sum payment for release).
  • Consult a lawyer before defaulting.

Comparison of Cancellation Methods

Method Cost Timeframe Success Rate Risk Level
Rescission Letter $0-$50 (mailing) 5-30 days 100% (if on time) Low
Sell on Resale Market $200-$1,000+ (fees) 6-18 months 50-70% Medium
Legal Exit (Attorney) $1,500-$5,000 3-12 months 80-90% Low-Medium
Timeshare Exit Company $2,000-$10,000 6-24 months 60-80% High (scam risk)
Deed-Back Program $0-$3,000 (fees) 2-6 months 70-90% Low

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Missing the rescission deadline: No exceptions-act immediately.
  • Verbal cancellations: Only written notices are legally binding.
  • Ignoring maintenance fees: Unpaid fees can lead to foreclosure.
  • Paying upfront for exit services: Scams often demand large deposits.
  • Assuming "no fault" releases: Developers rarely cancel contracts without cause.

What to Do If the Developer Refuses

  1. Document everything: Save emails, letters, and call records.
  2. File a complaint with:
    • Your state's Attorney General's office.
    • The Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
    • The Better Business Bureau (BBB).
  3. Consult a consumer protection lawyer specializing in timeshares.
  4. Dispute charges with your credit card company if fraud is suspected.