For many timeshare owners, the expectation is that once their contract reaches its expiration date, they will finally be free from financial obligations. However, as one metro Atlanta woman recently discovered, timeshare agreements can sometimes come with hidden clauses that extend ownership without consent. Sherri Crownover of Roswell, Georgia, believed she had fulfilled her 29-year commitment—only to find out her timeshare had been extended for another 10 years without her approval. Her story highlights a growing concern in the timeshare industry: the lack of transparency and fair exit options for longtime owners.
Unexpected Contract Extensions: A Legal Loophole?
Sherri Crownover purchased her timeshare at Golf Club Villas at Big Canoe in 1996, enjoying years of vacations in the mountains with her family. However, with her children grown and her husband facing serious health challenges, she was ready to leave the timeshare behind. Her contract was set to expire at the end of 2024, but an obscure clause allowed the Homeowners Association (HOA) to extend all timeshare agreements by 10 years. Despite never signing a new contract or agreeing to an extension, Crownover was informed that she was still responsible for maintenance fees in 2025. This type of automatic contract extension raises questions about the ethical and legal implications of timeshare agreements.
Who Is Responsible? The Role of the HOA and Management Companies
In response to the controversy, Capital Vacations, the company managing the timeshare, claimed they were not responsible for the decision. Instead, they pointed to the HOA board, which voted to extend the timeshare contracts. According to Capital Vacations, “The Association’s Declaration allows for the Association to be extended for 10-year periods if a majority of the owners of the Association vote in the affirmative…This extension is a benefit to the owners and will allow them to enjoy all their ownership offers for at least another decade.” However, for owners like Crownover, this extension feels more like a financial trap than a benefit. Many timeshare owners are not actively involved in HOA decisions, meaning crucial votes can occur without their knowledge. This lack of transparency leaves owners vulnerable to unexpected financial burdens.
What Can Timeshare Owners Do?
Sherri Crownover’s experience serves as a cautionary tale for timeshare owners nearing the end of their contracts. Many owners assume that once their contractual obligations are fulfilled, they will be free from further financial responsibilities. However, hidden clauses, HOA decisions, and unclear contract terms can extend ownership without direct consent. To avoid being trapped in an unwanted timeshare extension, owners should take proactive steps to protect themselves.
01. Review Contracts Thoroughly
Timeshare contracts are often filled with complex legal language, making it easy for owners to overlook clauses that could lead to automatic renewals. If an owner finds a questionable renewal clause, they should document it and seek advice on how to challenge it before the extension takes effect.
- Carefully read the terms and conditions of their timeshare agreements, especially clauses related to renewals and HOA authority.
- Look for language such as “automatic renewal,” “perpetual ownership,” or “unless extended as provided in the declaration.”
- Consult a legal professional or a timeshare exit expert to clarify any ambiguous terms before their contract’s expiration date.
02. Stay Informed on HOA Decisions
Homeowners Associations (HOAs) play a significant role in timeshare management and decision-making, including contract extensions. Unfortunately, many timeshare owners do not actively participate in HOA meetings or stay updated on board decisions, leaving them vulnerable to unexpected changes. Since HOAs often vote on important issues without direct input from all owners, staying informed can help prevent unexpected contract extensions.
- Owners should regularly attend HOA meetings or review meeting minutes to stay informed about potential policy changes.
- Request copies of HOA bylaws and voting procedures to understand how decisions are made and whether they have the right to challenge contract extensions.
- Engage with other owners to discuss concerns and form a collective voice against unwanted contract renewals.
03. Seek Legal or Professional Assistance
If a timeshare owner finds themselves facing an unwanted contract extension, seeking professional assistance can be a crucial step in disputing it. Taking legal action or working with a reputable timeshare exit professional can help owners challenge contract extensions and protect their financial interests.
- Timeshare Exit Companies – Some companies specialize in helping owners navigate legal loopholes to exit unwanted timeshare agreements. However, owners should thoroughly research these companies to avoid scams.
- Consumer Rights Attorneys – A legal professional with experience in contract law can review the terms of an agreement and advise on possible legal actions. Some attorneys specialize in timeshare disputes and may be able to challenge contract extensions in court.
- State and Federal Consumer Protection Agencies – Owners can report unfair contract practices to agencies such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or their state’s Attorney General’s office. Some states have specific consumer protection laws regarding timeshare agreements.
04. Push for Greater Transparency
Many timeshare owners feel powerless when it comes to contract extensions, but advocating for clearer policies can make a difference. By speaking up and demanding greater transparency, timeshare owners can help prevent future cases like Crownover’s and protect themselves from unwanted financial burdens.
- Demand Explicit Consent Requirements – Timeshare contracts should require clear, written consent from owners before any extensions take effect.
- Request HOA Accountability – Owners should push for HOAs to provide advance notice and transparent voting procedures regarding major contract changes.
- Support Legislative Efforts – Some consumer advocacy groups and lawmakers are working on regulations to prevent unfair timeshare extensions. Owners can contact their local representatives to support such initiatives.
Conclusion
Sherri Crownover’s case underscores the challenges timeshare owners can face when trying to exit their contracts. While companies and HOAs may argue that contract extensions benefit owners, many individuals simply want a fair and transparent way to leave. As timeshare agreements continue to evolve, it is crucial for owners to remain vigilant, informed, and proactive in protecting their financial interests. If you or someone you know is struggling with an unwanted timeshare extension, seeking professional guidance may be the key to finding a resolution.
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