Marriott Vacation Club
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Deceptive Sales Pitch, Taking Advantage of Elders
While at an “Owners Update” on my Marriott Vacation Club Membership, I shared with a Salesperson that I was recently widowed, I explained that this visit was part of my grieving process as my late husband, and I had vacationed at one of Marriott’s resorts in Hawaii. Despite acknowledging my vulnerable state, they proceeded with an aggressive sales session that lasted over two hours. I was urged to merge two of my existing Marriott timeshares into a new ownership with promises of financial savings, priority access to oceanfront villas, and added flexibility through Club Points. I was also told that if I couldn’t use the property, an external firm would be available to rent the weeks for me. These claims, which were made verbally and supported by handwritten calculations, were never reflected in the actual contract documents. I was assured I wouldn’t pay more than I already was and that the contract would be easily transferable to my son upon my passing. However, they failed to mention that my son would inherit the ever-increasing maintenance fees. The entire experience was rushed and disorganized. I was hurried through the signing process. I was even encouraged to open a new Marriott Bonvoy American Express card to help with closing costs, which has only added to my financial burden. The Club Points are extremely difficult to use, limited in their transfer options, and expire if not used within a confusing system. As an elderly widow, I feel I was taken advantage of and coerced into a contract that is neither sustainable nor beneficial. The never-ending maintenance fees and high monthly payments are unaffordable, and the misleading nature of the sale has left me with deep regret.