An article in Smart Money compared how timeshare, destination clubs, and fractional properties have fared since the economic downturn. Although fractional sales have slumped along with other areas in the real estate and vacation market, industry watchers say fractionals are still the best bet for properties that will ultimately appreciate.
What’s more, the sales slump has prompted some changes that could benefit newcomers to the market. To better compete, many fractional developments are bulking up their location-swapping programs; some 65 percent now allow members to access some type of exchange, up from 25 percent seven or eight years ago, according to Ragatz Associates. Read the full article at Smart Money.
On January 15th, the Four Seasons Residence Club in Punta Mita, Mexico unveiled 15 new available fractional homes. The homes are being offered in 1/12th shares with pricing starting in the low $200,000’s.
Elizabeth Gehrman has written an interesting and education article for 
A recent Forbes article highlights some positive economic numbers, while also listing many ways to expand your purchasing power and “live the good life for less”. Amid the money-saving shopping suggestions, relaxing alternatives to expensive trips to the spa, and online sources of in-demand products, fractional ownership is mentioned. After comparing the cost of vacationing to owning your own fractional property in a Private Residence Club, the article states that in the long run, Fractional Ownership is cheaper than renting. In addition, there is an implied profit in a long-term fractional investment.
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