Skip to content 
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
How to Get Rid of Starwood Timeshare?
Ending a Starwood Vacation Ownership timeshare is challenging, but several legal and structured options exist. The article outlines multiple strategies for a clean exit depending on ownership status, contract terms, and financial standing. Owners can sell their timeshare on the resale market with Right of First Refusal clauses after confirming eligibility, market value, and absence of loans, though resale rarely recovers the original cost. Giving away a timeshare appears simple but often leads to ongoing liabilities due to state laws like Florida Statute 721.17, which holds original owners responsible if transferees default. Negotiating directly with Starwood is difficult, as the company’s duty to shareholders often conflicts with owner interests, resulting in upsells instead of cancellations.
A deed-back or buyback program, allowing eligible owners to surrender their timeshares legally for little or no cost. Programs like Vistana Exit and other branded initiatives by Marriott, Wyndham, or Hyatt provide verified exits if accounts are current and paid in full. Owners should avoid resale scams and verify all exit firms for BBB accreditation, transparency, and verified reviews before engaging services.
New buyers can rescind contracts within the legal rescission period usually three to fifteen days by sending a formal cancellation letter to the developer. The safest long-term solutions combine professional guidance, verified company research, and direct resort programs. Ultimately, awareness of legitimate options and adherence to state laws ensures a secure, compliant, and cost-effective Starwood timeshare cancellation.
To cancel Starwood Timeshare, owners must follow a structured approach based on financial standing, contract status, and legal eligibility.
Confused about which exit method fits your ownership? Get clarity based on your contract type and fee status. Start with a personalized guidance session
1. Sell Your Timeshare on the Resale Market
To sell your Starwood timeshare effectively, you must first understand how the resale market operates and confirm that your timeshare is fully paid and not encumbered by a loan. Always check your purchase agreement to determine whether the developer holds a Right of First Refusal (ROFR) before you can sell it to a new owner.
Before listing, check the marketability of your timeshare by asking:
- Is it eligible for resale under the terms of your agreement?
- What is it worth compared to similar listings in the same locations, with similar square footage and amenities?
- What are the costs for closing, transaction, and any developer or company fees?
- Are there online websites like RedWeek or trusted marketplaces that accept resale listings without hefty or exclusive charges?
- How much value or depreciation can you expect once sold?
Once you confirm these details:
- List your timeshare through reputable timeshare resale brokers, verified marketplaces, or classifieds.
- Be aware that the resale transaction might not recover the original value, but it can release you from ongoing maintenance fees, financial stress, and unwanted ownership obligations.
- Review all closing documents carefully and ensure the developer acknowledges the transfer.
The resale market can be slow but remains one of the most direct ways to exit a Starwood timeshare while maintaining transparency and compliance with all ownership and developer requirements.
2. Giving Away Your Starwood Timeshare
Giving away your Starwood timeshare might seem like a simple solution, but it carries serious legal and financial risk. When an owner tries to donate or transfer their timeshare to family or friends, several laws and legislation including Florida Statute XL, Chapter 721, Section 17, Paragraph 1.e can make this option far more complex. Under these rules, a developer or state authority can still hold the original owner accountable if the future owner or transferee fails to pay maintenance fees, club dues, or defaults on other obligations.
To understand how this process really works, review these details:
- Transfer obligations: Even after a cancellation, rejection, or bankruptcy proceeding, the transferee remains responsible under the instrument signed with the developer and purchaser.
- Legislation and lobbying: Rep. Eric Eisnaugle, who co-sponsored the bill, worked alongside lobbyists, industry experts, and state lawmakers to pass this law after receiving donations from timeshare industry groups.
- Expert advice: Most experts and attorneys recommend getting proper guidance before following this strategy, as it can lead to long-term legal consequences.
- Developer enforcement: Developers may pursue owners or future owners when payment or contract obligations are unmet, meaning transfers are rarely consequence-free.
Because of these laws, legislation, and lobbying efforts, experts stress that giving away a Starwood timeshare can cause ongoing legal, maintenance, and financial burdens instead of a clean exit.
3. Work Directly with Your Timeshare Company
Work directly with your timeshare company only if you understand how Starwood operates and how their fiduciary obligation works. The company’s duty is to its shareholders, not to owners, which means their goal is to make money, not to help you cancel. When you try to end your timeshare contract, Starwood still holds responsibility for maintenance costs, taxes, and club dues until it resells those points or weeks.
Here’s how to protect yourself during this process:
- Keep all communication written: Use an online form or submission and explain why you want your timeshare canceled before calling Starwood.
- Avoid emotional traps: Representatives are often trained to make you feel upset or act irrationally. Stay calm and reasonable.
- Do not admit fault or responsibility: Stick to the facts and avoid acknowledging debt or guilt.
- Reject the first offer: Their first resolution usually involves buying more weeks or points through another program or exit plan.
- Understand their strategy: Trying to negotiate with Starwood can feel like nuclear proliferation because their purpose is profit, not canceling your ownership.
If these negotiations fail, it becomes difficult for any entity to assist later. Many developers won’t accept a return, as taking back timeshares hurts their portfolio and profits. Always consider your route carefully and know that once you go this way, it’s nearly impossible to reverse the process.
Not sure how to handle Starwood’s negotiation tactics? See what other owners successfully did and which paths are most effective. Review real owner outcomes
4. Try a Timeshare Deed-Back Program
A timeshare deed-back program or buyback program can sometimes help owners exit legally at minimal cost. In this program, the resort or developer agrees to take your property back. Some offer this for free or a few hundred dollars, making it one of the most legal and low-risk routes.
Here’s what to check before applying:
- Eligibility: You must be in good standing and meet any contract stipulations set by the developer.
- Qualifying events: Major life events like job loss or death often determine eligibility.
- Example programs: Options include Wyndham Destinations with their Ovation program, Marriott Vacation Club, Westin Vacation Club, Sheraton Vacation Club, Holiday Inn Club Vacations via Horizons, Hyatt Vacation Club, and Westgate Resorts through the Legacy Program.
- Cost structure: Some developers may charge a few hundred dollars; others offer it free if conditions are met.
Checking your agreement and understanding the buyback process ensures a smooth transfer back to the resort.
Key Differences Between Direct Negotiation and Deed-Back
Both methods can help you get rid of a Starwood timeshare, but they differ in complexity, cost, and success rate:
Factor | Work Directly with Company | Try a Deed-Back Program |
Cost | Often hidden through upsells or new program offers | Usually free or a few hundred dollars |
Ease | Complicated, emotionally draining due to representatives and negotiations | Simple and legal process |
Legal Standing | Can cause debt or responsibility if canceled incorrectly | Clearly outlined in contract stipulations |
Success Rate | Low; depends on Starwood’s internal policy | Higher if eligible and developer accepts |
Long-Term Impact | May affect future resale or entity assistance | Closes ownership cleanly and legally |
Understanding these differences helps you choose the safest route to exit your timeshare, whether through negotiation or a structured deed-back program.
5. Hire a Reputable Timeshare Exit Company
Hire a reputable timeshare exit company only after you’ve done thorough research to avoid scams and misleading services. A Google search for “Cancel Timeshare” will return thousands of companies, but only a few are BBB Accredited and verified by the Better Business Bureau (BBB). The industry includes good, bad, and ugly actors, some promising fast, easy, and guaranteed results that rarely happen. Always verify the company’s reviews, complaints, and public reputation before committing. Avoid hefty upfront fees or published online pricing that seems too good to be true. Real timeshare exit companies are truthful, reputable, and transparent about cost, fees, expectations, and time.
To protect your interests, follow these trusted steps:
- Check accreditation: Look for BBB Accredited companies with consistent Better Business Bureau records.
- Do your homework: Review articles, recommendations, and top lists of timeshare exit companies compiled by verified industry experts.
- Verify transparency: Legitimate companies make their services, consultations, and pricing available online for the public.
- Seek professional guidance: Some situations may require an attorney, while others can be handled by a traditional exit company.
- Set realistic expectations: Understand the cost, time, and cancellation process before signing any agreement.
As an independent review site, MyTimesShareExitReview Consultants Group helps Starwood Vacation Ownership members avoid fraudulent companies by reviewing, rating, and recommending only qualified, truthful, and reputable timeshare exit companies that follow proper consumer protection laws and ethical business standards.
Contact us to explore verified reviews, check trusted companies, and protect yourself from scams today!
6. Rescind Your Starwood Timeshare Contract
Rescind your Starwood timeshare contract if you recently purchased one and are still within the legal rescission period. This process allows new buyers to cancel their agreement and recover the original purchase amount without paying a fee. Every state has its own rules for how long the rescission period lasts, usually between three and 15 days, depending on where the resort or timeshare is located. If your purchase still qualifies, act quickly because once this period ends, you can’t use this option again.
The steps to include when sending your cancellation letter to the timeshare developer are listed below
- Names and signatures: List all names on the signed agreement and the purchase date.
- Developer information: Include the name of the developer, the contract number, and the cancellation address of the resort.
- Contact details: Add your mailing address, phone, and email.
- Cancellation statement: Write a clear statement declaring your rescission and intent to cancel the contract.
- Delivery method: Send the letter as a registered document to ensure the company receives it within the valid time frame.
This is one of the less expensive options to exit a Starwood timeshare, costing less than a dollar for a stamp and registered mail. For best results, follow a step-by-step guide to confirm your rescission process is completed correctly and that your cancellation is legally accepted by the developer.
7. Avoid Timeshare Resale Scams
Avoid timeshare resale scams by learning how to recognize legitimate exit providers and resale companies before making any decisions about your Starwood ownership. Many people lose thousands of dollars to fraudulent companies that promise fast results but fail to deliver. When canceling your timeshare, always build a comprehensive plan that includes best practices, multiple exit strategies, and an understanding of your agreement and contracts. A genuine developer or attorney can help you review your buyback program, confirm if you’re still in your rescission period, and determine if your ownership qualifies for an official exit.
To stay safe and informed, follow these clear rules:
- Do contact the developer: Ask about your rescission period, available buyback programs, or other low-cost options.
- Do review your agreement: Check for helpful information and clauses that support your exit strategy.
- Do hire an attorney: A lawyer can manage legal contracts and protect you from potential issues.
- Don’t rent or give away your timeshare: It may seem like a win-win, but you could remain responsible for maintenance fees or future legal action.
- Don’t quit payments: Skipping fees or payments can lead to developers taking legal action and hurting your credit.
- Avoid fake exit companies: Research reviews, read about Timeshare Exit Scams, and verify every company before doing business.
Having helped owners craft secure exit strategies, I’ve seen that staying cautious with resale companies, reading your contracts, and working only with legitimate providers are the safest ways to avoid scams and protect your Starwood timeshare investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Companies Will Cancel Starwood Timeshares?
Companies that will cancel Starwood timeshares should always be legitimate, BBB Accredited, and supported by positive reviews. Look for timeshare exit companies with transparent pricing, no upfront fees, and verified Better Business Bureau listings. Many owners recommend Cancel Timeshare for Starwood cancellations because it operates ethically and provides full transparency throughout the cancellation process.
2. How Much Does It Cost to Cancel a Starwood Timeshare
The cost to cancel a Starwood timeshare varies based on the exit company, your contract, and ownership status. Most legitimate companies display their standardized pricing online and avoid hidden fees. Some charge flat rates, while others adjust pricing depending on debt, maintenance fees, or additional legal services. To stay informed, review Timeshare Cancellation published rates and confirm your Starwood contract qualifies for a full cancellation before making any payment.
3. How Do I Give My Starwood Timeshare Back?
The Vistana Exit Program lets Starwood and Vistana owners give their timeshare ownership back to Marriott completely free of charge. You can start the process by visiting the Vistana Exit homepage, filling out the online form, or calling the Marriott number listed on the site. Once approved, your ownership ends permanently, and you’re released from future maintenance fees or resort obligations.
4. Is There a Catch to This Program?
No, there’s no catch. The only requirements are that your ownership is fully paid off and you’re not delinquent on maintenance fees. There are no special fees, hidden costs, or fine print just a direct, easy way to surrender your timeshare back to Marriott without paying a third party.
5. Why Don’t More Starwood Owners Use This Program?
Many Starwood owners simply don’t know that this free exit program exists. Marriott doesn’t heavily promote it, while upfront-fee exit companies spend large amounts on marketing their paid services. As a result, many owners end up paying thousands to cancel their timeshares, unaware that they could have done it themselves for free.
6. Am I Truly Out of My Starwood Timeshare After Surrendering It?
Yes, once your surrender is completed, you are no longer an owner. The title transfer is finalized by Marriott, and you have no further financial obligations, including maintenance fees or annual payments.
Recommended Timeshare Exit Companies
Free Informational Consultation
By providing my contact information and clicking ‘submit’, I am giving MyTimeshareExitReviews.com and its partners permission to contact me about this and other future offers using the information provided. This may also include calls and text messages to my wireless telephone numbers. I also consent to use of emails and the use of an automated dialing device and pre-recorded messages. I understand that my permission described overrides my listing on any state or federal ‘Do Not Call’ list and any prior listing on the ‘Do Not Call’ lists of our partners. I acknowledge that this consent may only be revoked by email notification to info@mytimeshareexitreviews.com
Timeshare Exit Companies
- Timeshare Specialists Review
- Sapphire Timeshare Cancellation Review
- Resolution Timeshare Cancellation Review
- Timeshare Exit Team Review
- Resort Advisory Group Review
- Resort Release Review
- Timeshare Compliance Review
- Wesley Financial Group Review
- Primo Management Group Review
- Resort Exit Team Review
- Lonestar Transfer Review
- Newton Group Transfers Review
- Nationwide Settlement Solutions Review
- No More Fees LLC Review
- Centerstone Group Review
- American Settlement Solutions Review
- US Consumer Attorneys Review
- Go Away Timeshare Review
- Timeshare Freedom Group Review
- Helping Timeshare Owners Review
- Vacation Ownership Consultants Review
- Timeshare Cure Review
- Resort Relief Review
- EZ Exit Now Review
- Advocate Financial Services Review
- Timeshare Termination Team Review
- Oasis Exit Solutions Review
- Donate For A Cause Review
- Resort Legal Team Review
- Omni Ellis Review
- Finn Law Group Review
- Timeshare Adventures Review
- Timeshares Only Review
- Timeshare Answers Review
- Seaside Consultants Group Review
- Gallagher Law Firm Review
- Redemption & Release Review
- Linx Legal Review
- Timeshare Legal Review
- Fastest Exit Review
- Genius Exit Review
- Client Protection Group Review
- Abrams Law Firm Review
Helpful Articles
- Why Timeshares Lose Value?
- How Timeshares Hurt Credit?
- Timeshare Exit Company Scams
- How To Get A Timeshare Off Your Credit
- Timeshare Contract Loopholes
- How to Cancel Timeshare Payments?
- How to Cancel Royal Holiday Club Timeshare?
- Average Cost to Get Out of a Timeshare?
- Walking Away From Timeshare Maintenance Fees - Is It Smart?
- Cancel Timeshare Mortgage and Maintenance Fee?
- Timeshare Cancellation Letter Sample
- Cancel RCI and Interval International Membership?
- Cancel a Grandview Timeshare?
- Cancel a Tahiti Village Timeshare?
- How To Get Rid of a Timeshare?
- Cancel a Vacation Village Timeshare?
- Cancel a Silver Leaf Timeshare?
- Cancel a Manhattan Club Timeshare?
- Cancel a Holiday Inn Timeshare?
- Cancel a Timeshare in Mexico?
- Cancel a Bluegreen Timeshare?
- Cancel a Vidanta Timeshare?
- Cancel a Grand Solmar Timeshare?
- Get Rid of Timeshare Without Ruining Credit?
- Cancel a Hilton Grand Vacations Timeshare?
- Cancel a Marriott Timeshare?
- Cancel a Vistana Timeshare?
- Cancel a WorldMark Timeshare?
- Cancel a Wyndham Timeshare?
- Cancel a Diamond Timeshare?
- Cancel a Ritz-Carlton Timeshare?
- Cancel a Orange Lake Timeshare?
- Cancel a Festiva Timeshare?
- Cancel a Palace Resorts Timeshare?
- Legitimate Companies that Buy Timeshares?
FREE TIMESHARE EXIT COST ASSESSMENT
