Hilton Grand Vacations (HGV) is popular for travelers seeking a flexible, points-based timeshare ownership system with relatively low maintenance fees and affordable purchase prices. With access to top-tier resorts in some of the most popular destinations, purchasing a Hilton Grand Vacations on the resale market is a great way to secure a lifetime of vacations.
However, potential buyers face a critical decision, should they purchase a Hilton timeshare retail directly from Hilton or explore savings found on the resale market?
In addition, Hilton’s recent roll out of the HGV Max program requires another layer of consideration. This article discusses the key differences between retail and resale timeshare purchases, focusing on HGV Max. It will help you make an informed choice that matches your budget and vacation goals.
What Is HGV Max?
HGV Max is an optional Hilton Grand Vacations membership program that offers additional perks and access to additional resorts. With HGV Max, owners can book stays at Hilton Grand Vacations properties, Diamond Resorts, and Hilton Vacation Club locations.
While these perks can seem very attractive at face value, in many cases, the number of points needed to obtain them is far beyond what many owners choose to purchase. Also, access to resorts outside of Hilton Grand Vacations, such as Diamond and Hilton Vacation Club (HVC) resorts, has limited booking windows starting just six months in advance.
Ultimately, this program costs thousands of dollars more than resale and can offer very little value to travelers compared to its high costs.
Joining HGV Max
There are two ways to gain HGV Max membership:
- Retail Purchase with Hilton
Buyers who purchase directly from Hilton automatically gain HGV Max access. Depending on the number of points purchased, retail prices for Hilton timeshares vary, generally from $22,000 to over $65,000. - Enrolling as an Existing Retail Owner
Owners who originally purchased from Hilton before the HGV Max program launch can pay a one-time enrollment fee, including costs like activation and ownership change fees. The total fee is approximately $7,649.
Restrictions on Resale Owners
HGV Max membership is currently unavailable for those purchasing their timeshares through the resale market. We will detail the exact benefits and costs of the program to help you determine whether the costs make sense for you.
Retail Hilton Purchases
Buying directly from Hilton offers several advantages tied to the HGV Max program and elite membership status.
Benefits of Retail Purchases
- Elite Membership Tiers
Higher Elite status membership tiers are only accessible via retail purchases. Purchasing points on the resale market will not contribute to your Elite status. - HGV Max Perks
In the HGV Max program, specific tiers offer additional perks, like a free guest certificate for members with at least 17,000 annual ClubPoints or free conversion of ClubPoints to Hilton Honors Points for those with 54,000 or more annual ClubPoints. However, unless you plan to purchase a substantial number of ClubPoints at retail prices, these benefits are often considered not cost-effective.
Key Considerations for Retail Buyers
The most important downside of retail purchases is the cost. Retail timeshare pricing is significantly higher than resale options, and there is limited flexibility for negotiation.
Additionally, the exclusive benefits offered through HGV Max often require higher point ownership than most buyers typically seek. It’s generally accepted that about 11,200 HGV ClubPoints would be able to reserve a 2 bedroom in high season at almost any resort. Yet, many of the benefits for HGV Max begin at more than 17,000 annual ClubPoints or higher.
Resale Hilton Purchases
The resale market offers a more cost-effective avenue for buying Hilton timeshares. With savings ranging from 50% to 65% compared to retail pricing, resale options deliver excellent value for budget-conscious buyers.
Benefits of Resale Purchases
- Cost Savings
Resale purchases allow buyers to enjoy Hilton timeshare ownership for a fraction of retail costs. For instance, a timeshare selling for $20,000 at retail could sometimes be purchased on the resale market for $5,000 or less. - Flexible Usage
Resale buyers can still book their home resort 12 months in advance or use their ClubPoints to book any Hilton resort nine months in advance. Resale owners also enjoy full integration with RCI (Resort Condominiums International), opening up even more travel opportunities. Banking your unused points or borrowing from next year’s points is available with resale ownerships. - Existing Ownership Integration
Buyers who already own Hilton timeshares can combine resale points with their current ClubPoints to enhance vacation flexibility.
Accessibility to Key Features
Though resale purchases lack access to the HGV Max program, buyers can still benefit from Open Season bookings, which offer discounted cash reservation options starting 30 days before check-in and the ability to convert ClubPoints into Hilton Honors Points. These core benefits match the vast majority of features available through retail ownership.
Important Considerations
When deciding between retail and resale purchases, buyers should weigh the following factors carefully:
- Cost Efficiency
Resale transactions typically offer 50% to 65% savings over retail purchases, making them particularly appealing for budget-focused travelers. - HGV Max Membership
Buyers interested in HGV Max-exclusive benefits, such as Diamond-tier Hilton Honors status or long booking windows for Diamond Resorts, should consider these perks, though they come at a premium. - Resale Flexibility
Resale purchases still provide substantial value and access to all Hilton Grand Vacations and Hilton Club destinations without the high upfront costs associated with retail. - Long-Term Value
If you ever need to sell your ownership, HGV Max benefits can not be transferred to the secondary market, so you must sell it at the current market value. Price disparities between retail and the secondary market could result in significant financial loss for those considering buying retail.
Is HGV Max Membership Necessary?
HGV Max undoubtedly introduces more options, particularly for those seeking access to Diamond Resorts and Hilton Vacation Club locations. However, buyers should evaluate whether the additional cost is justified relative to their travel patterns and preferences.
It’s worth noting that Diamond Resorts has tighter booking windows and serious inventory competition from the many existing owners, which could limit their practical value for some members.
Final Thoughts
Deciding between retail and resale Hilton timeshare purchases depends on your preferences, budget, and long-term vacation goals. Resale purchases stand out for their affordability and access to Hilton’s top-tier resorts, making them a practical choice for cost-conscious buyers. Meanwhile, retail purchases appeal to those attracted to the exclusive HGV Max perks.
Ultimately, understanding the benefits and limitations of each option enables you to make a decision that aligns with your travel vision. Whether you prioritize cost savings or enhanced benefits, Hilton Grand Vacations offers options catering to various needs in its renowned timeshare program.