What is the difference between fixed and floating weeks with time shares?

Buying a fixed week timeshare allows you the use of the unit for that specific week each year for as long as you own the property. The advantage of a fixed week is that you know when you’re going each year. If you choose to go a different time of year, you may make your week “floating” by exchanging it for another week or for a different resort.  Buying a floating week timeshare allows you to use the unit anytime during the year based upon its availability. Some timeshares sell their ownerships by season. For example, you may have an option of purchasing a Winter Season floating week or Summer Season floating week. In this case, the resort guarantees you a week in the season which you purchase. The week you use, depends on when you book it. The advantage of a floating week is that you have the flexibility of booking different weeks each year.

In a fixed week system, your occupancy right is guaranteed to be the same week and the same unit every year. In a floating week system, you have the right to use a unit during a specified season but you must contact the resort to reserve a specific week during the float period.  If you usually vacation at the same time every year and are interested in returning to the same location frequently, a fixed week will suit you best. This way you know the week the timeshare will be available to you and exactly what unit you will occupy.

Tags: fixed, floating