Articles

10.09.09 - New Funding Resource for Timeshare Renovations & Upgrades

The competition for consumer disposable dollars in today’s economy is tough. People of all economic levels are being dramatically affected by declining real estate values along with increasing food and energy costs. The vacation product you are presenting to the market, therefore, needs to have excellent value, making it a cost-effective, satisfying choice for the timeshare owner. Keeping the resort looking fresh and new is of key importance. 

With the rapidly increasing costs of construction, a loan for a project that you finance now (versus piece meal over an extended period) could help mitigate those cost increases and will improve the curb appeal now. HOALendingSolutions.com has loan funds available for refurbishments/upgrades and new facilities (a clubhouse, pool, tennis court, etc.). Often associations want to purchase adjacent land to prevent unwanted development or to acquire a parcel that has been accessible only by easement. We can help.

Non-Real Estate based bank loans for timeshare associations have increased in popularity in recent years, as resorts built in the mid- to late-80s and 90s are starting to age significantly. The concept has been available to the residential community association industry for more than 20 years. The loan only uses the association’s cash flow as the basis for the loan along with an assignment of assessment rights as collateral. Many timeshare associations haven’t accumulated reserves based on a properly done and frequently updated reserve study, so they typically require a special assessment. Given the current economic climate, special assessments are falling ever further out of favor with interval owners. Associations that are subject to land leases or for amenities can also benefit from loan financing with the buyout of the lease. It is a particularly active transaction in Hawaii. These associations can purchase the lease and pay off the obligation long before the lease would ever mature.

Taking Action

Financing for timeshare associations is relatively new and must abide by laws each state sets out in a Common Interest Ownership Act or other industry specific regulations. The first thing that you may wish to do is contact the association’s counsel to determine if there are any legal obstacles. Associations may need to update their declarations if they don’t have a legal capability to borrow or assign their common charge assessments as loan collateral. Each set of declarations includes unique steps that empower the Board to enter into a financing agreement and encumber the assessment rights. It’s important to understand the details of the process and what will be required, so you avoid any surprises or delays in later stages.

Talk to HOALendingSolutions.com today. Many banks have little experience with financing for timeshare resort associations. Our application process is simple and straightforward. Apply now and start your renovation or upgrade project tomorrow.