Breckenridge — In the past, “Timeshare Salesperson” had the same negative connotations as “Used Car Salesperson.” Whether or not used-car salespeople deserve their reputation is debatable but during the early years of the timeshare industry, a few timeshare salespeople certain­ly fit the unsavory reputation.
  During the 1980s some salespeople utilized high-pressure tactics and did not always follow through on all that was promised during the sales presentation. The industry realized that something needed to be done before the few bad apples ruined it for the vast majority of timeshare companies in the country who were highly scrupulous. The American Resort Development Association (ARDA) was formed to establish guidelines and regulate an industry with huge potential.
  Formed over 30 years ago, The American Resort Development Association (ARDA) now has nearly 1,000 corporate members ranging from privately held firms to publicly traded companies and international corporations.
  According to ARDA’s industry research, “trust is a key purchase motivation cited by satisfied timeshare buyers.”
  As a result, ARDA created a strict Code of Ethics that has helped change what was once a negatively-perceived indus­try into an increasingly popular real estate option for many Americans. ARDA members include some of the world’s most recognized names in hospitality: Disney, Starwood, Four Seasons, Marriot, etc… as well as many independent resort developers. For more than 35 years, ARDA members have worked with federal and state gov­ernment officials in support of legislation to protect con­sumers. Additionally, most states have passed laws to ensure ethical real estate sales behavior.
  A recent ARDA report proves that the once-negative perception of timeshare has certainly made a 180 degree turn. As of January 1, 2008, 4.7 million households owned one or more US timeshares, (or points equivalent), totaling 6.5 million intervals owned. There are now 1,641 timeshare resorts in the United States, representing 180,200 units. Recent trends indicate continued strong industry growth. Timeshare sales have seen compounded annual growth of 13 percent since 2003. In 2007, there were nearly 551,500 timeshare intervals sold for an average price of $19,216 each — with sales totaling $10.6 billion, according to a new study of the U.S. vacation timeshare industry conducted by Ernst & Young, LLP.
  “The continued growth of the timeshare industry in today’s economy is a direct indication of strong consumer satisfaction and demand. (Timeshare), with its flexibility and spacious accommodations, continues to be a preferred travel choice for American families,” said Howard Nusbaum, ARDA president and CEO.
  Breckenridge is home to a couple timeshare develop­ments such as the Grand Lodge on Peak 7 and Valdoro Mountain Lodge.