Negotiating for better perks when attending a timeshare presentation can be quite effective if approached strategically. Here are some ways you can try to negotiate a better deal:
[Note: This is only about the freebies given for attending a presentation.]
- Ask for More Points or Credits:
- You could ask for additional loyalty points or credits in different programs. For instance, you could inquire about points in programs like American Express Membership Rewards or Delta SkyMiles if they’re affiliated with the timeshare company.
- Request Specific Upgrades:
- Ask for room upgrades. This might include a suite, a room with a better view, or one in a quieter part of the property.
- Inquire about upgrades to your transportation or check-in process, like early check-in or late check-out.
- Vouchers and Certificates:
- Look for vouchers for spa treatments, dining, or local attractions. Sometimes, these can be more valuable than points if used wisely.
- Flexibility on Dates:
- If you’re flexible with your travel dates, use this as leverage. You could ask for the presentation during off-peak times when they might be more willing to offer better deals.
- Gift Cards or Cash Back:
- Sometimes, companies offer gift cards to popular retailers or even cash back for attending. This can be particularly lucrative if you can negotiate a higher value.
- Combine Offers:
- If you’ve received multiple offers from the same company or similar companies, mention this. You could ask if they can match or exceed another offer’s perks.
- Leverage Your Status:
- If you’re already a member of their loyalty program with a high status, mention this. High-tier members might get better perks or have more leverage in negotiations.
- Bring a Friend:
- Sometimes, bringing a guest or stating you’ll bring an additional person can increase the value of your offer since it’s two potential customers rather than one.
- Negotiate the Presentation Duration:
- While less common, you might negotiate the time spent in the presentation. If you can get them to agree to a shorter session in exchange for more incentives, that’s a win.
- Future Commitment:
- Offer to commit to referring friends in exchange for better perks now.
- Direct Communication:
- Sometimes, speaking directly with a supervisor or someone in sales can yield better results than going through customer service. Politely ask to escalate your call or visit if the initial offer isn’t satisfactory.
- Read the Fine Print:
- Always review what you’re agreeing to. Sometimes, additional benefits can be hidden in the fine print or can be asked for explicitly.
When negotiating, always remain polite and patient. Timeshare companies expect a certain amount of negotiation, but they’re also looking for potential buyers, so they might be more willing to sweeten the deal to get you in the door. Remember, the key is to show interest without committing to buy, which gives you leverage in the negotiation.
Take a look at this actual scenario:
“The last email offer I received was in March 2023 from Hilton Grand Vacations. It dangled a three-night stay in Las Vegas plus 50,000 Hilton Honors points in exchange for $149 and sitting through a 90-minute talk [timeshare presentation].”
Now look at how he negotiated for better perks. This has nothing to do with buying a timeshare. This is just about the freebies given at the presentation. Can he get more freebies?
“After reviewing the terms of my promotion — and with some very polite back and forth — I requested an increase to 100,000 points and a waiver on the additional resort fees of $34 per night. After a long wait, the sales representative’s supervisor approved the deal if I accepted it on the spot, which I did.”
Source: How Timeshare Presentations Earn Me Cheap Travel – NerdWallet
Never actually buy a timeshare at a presentation even if you want one. You can easily buy one on the secondary market for almost nothing.
The author of this article recommends the following when negotiating perks: “This is why I recommend sticking to cash, visa gift cards, dining vouchers, and activity tickets.” Source: Why You Should Attend A Las Vegas Timeshare Presentation In 2025.