Hilton Grand Vacations (HGV) offers flexible, points-based timeshare ownership, giving members access to a wide array of vacation opportunities. If you’re exploring the possibility of purchasing a Hilton timeshare, understanding the distinctions between retail and resale purchases is essential.
Both options come with their own costs, benefits, and restrictions, including access to the HGV Max program. This article breaks down the key differences between retail and resale Hilton timeshares to help you make an informed decision
What Is HGV Max?
HGV Max is a membership option within Hilton Grand Vacations Club that allows members to expand their vacation opportunities. It enables bookings at Hilton Grand Vacations resorts, Diamond Resorts, and Hilton Vacation Club properties, with availability at Diamond and Hilton Vacation Club locations beginning six months before check-out.
How to Join HGV Max
There are two primary ways to join HGV Max:
Buyers who purchase timeshares directly through Hilton automatically gain enrollment in the HGV Max program. Retail prices for such purchases typically range from $22,000 to $65,000, depending on the number of ClubPoints acquired.
Owners who initially purchased directly from Hilton can join HGV Max by paying a $7,000 initiation fee, along with a $450 ownership change fee and a $199 activation fee, meaning owners would pay an initiation fee of approximately $7,649.
Exploring Resale Benefits
Many buyers look to the resale market as a cost-effective way to purchase a Hilton timeshare. Despite being significantly less expensive than retail purchases, resale timeshares come with many of the same benefits when compared to purchasing directly from Hilton.
Resale timeshare owners enjoy the freedom to book any HGV or Hilton Club location starting nine months in advance. Additionally, resale points integrate seamlessly with RCI (Resort Condominiums International), a network that opens up a variety of travel options—offering flexibility comparable to retail ownership.
Existing Hilton Grand Vacations owners can combine resale deeds with their current ClubPoints, making it easier to expand their portfolio. This allows for unified access to all HGV and Hilton Club resorts.
Both resale and retail buyers can convert their ClubPoints into Hilton Honors Points, unlocking access to Hilton’s broader hotel network. This feature ensures consistent value across various types of ownership.
Both retail and resale owners can take advantage of the Open Season program. This benefit allows for discounted last-minute bookings—available 30 days before check-in—using cash instead of ClubPoints.
Retail Benefits
While resale timeshares can provide excellent value, retail purchases offer some exclusive benefits that may appeal to certain buyers.
Membership Status Levels
Increased membership tiers, within HGV Max or for Elite status, are exclusive to retail purchases.
Within the HGV Max program, certain membership tiers provide added benefits, such as 1 free guest certificate for members holding at least 17,000 annual Club Points, or complimentary conversion of ClubPoints to Hilton Honors Points for those with a minimum of 54,000 annual Club Points.
Unless you are planning on buying a large number of Club Points, and are willing to pay the retail prices for each point, these benefits are generally regarded as not being worth their cost.
Is HGV Max Right for You?
Whether or not HGV Max is worth the price of admission depends on your travel preferences and priorities, but most owners will find opting for a resale to offer a better value. Let’s see why HGV Max might not be all its been advertised to be.
Let’s Talk About Diamond and Hilton Vacation Club Resorts
While the HGV Max program offers access to a wider range of destinations, the addition of Diamond Resorts (and those resorts that have been rebranded to Hilton Vacation Club) may not be as beneficial as you might think.
The short booking windows for Diamond Resorts, at just 6 months prior to check-out, can make securing high-demand weeks challenging. Access to the most desirable weeks and resorts may be difficult to book when Diamond owners have many months in advance to pick through the available vacation inventory.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that some buyers may find the locations as well as fit and finish of Diamond Resorts underwhelming compared to other Hilton properties.
Key Considerations for Hilton Buyers
Before deciding between retail and resale options, consider the following:
- Cost: Resale purchases can be over 65% less expensive than retail options, making them an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers.
- Flexibility: Hilton resale ownerships provide the same booking opportunities and access to Hilton’s top-tier resorts within Hilton Grand Vacations resort network, which includes Hilton Club resorts.
- High ClubPoint Requirements: Retail owners receive access to some additional benefits, but these often require many more ClubPoints than buyer intend to purchase.
- Long-Term Value: If you ever want to sell your ownership, buying directly from Hilton could mean losing tens of thousands of dollars due to the stark difference in pricing when compared to resale ownerships.
Final Thoughts
Deciding between retail and resale Hilton timeshare purchases ultimately comes down to your budget and travel needs. Resale options provide the core benefits of Hilton Grand Vacations at a fraction of the price, while retail purchases grant access to HGV Max benefits.
With a clear understanding of the distinctions between these two options, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your vacation goals. If you’re still unsure, feel free to contact us by filling out a form. We’ll have one of our licensed Real Estate agents reach out to you for a free consultation to determine if purchasing a Hilton Grand Vacations ownership on the resale market is right for you.
