Timeshare exit companies can help you end an unwanted contract, but they should usually be a last resort. Many owners can negotiate with the resort or pursue resale first, and those options are often faster and less expensive. If you’ve already tried those routes without success, a reputable timeshare exit company may be able to help.
If you decide working with a timeshare exit company is right for you, the options below are the ones we recommend most. Each has a strong reputation, transparent customer reviews, and experience helping owners legally exit their contracts.
Because timeshare exit is a scam-heavy industry, we weigh customer complaints and verified reviews more heavily than any other factor in our ratings.
We look closely at BBB complaints, Trustpilot patterns, and how consistently each company responds to issues. If you decide working with a timeshare exit company is right for you, this feedback is one of the safest ways to avoid bad actors and choose a provider that’s proven, reputable, and transparent about results.
Table of Contents
What do timeshare exit companies do?
A timeshare exit company is a business that helps owners legally end a timeshare contract when DIY methods, such as contacting the resort or attempting resale, don’t work.
These companies use a range of strategies based on your contract, state laws, and payment history. The most reputable firms employ attorneys or negotiate directly with resorts, aiming for a clean termination without damaging your credit.
Here’s how a good exit company typically helps:
- Reviews your contract to determine legal path options
- Negotiates directly with the developer or its legal team
- Pursues deed-backs, settlements, or full cancellations
- Advises you on your financial obligations (including what not to do)
- Communicates updates throughout a multi-month process
Some firms rely heavily on form letters or “strategic default” tactics. Others, like Stonegate, emphasize legal oversight and case-specific strategy. As Stonegate’s attorney, Dennis Donovan, Esq., explains:
We take a legal approach to every case we handle, not just boilerplate letters. We stay in the trenches with our clients until the job is done.
Exit companies are a last resort, but they can be effective if your contract is complicated or if the resort refuses to work with you directly.
Pro tip: Some timeshare exit companies have an escrow payment option. It’s our preferred method of payment because your money is held in a separate account, and the company is not paid until services are complete. Escrow accounts add extra security and accountability.
Stonegate Firm doesn’t consider defaulting on a contract to be a legal exit. Walking away and hoping nothing happens is not the same as being released.
Our picks for reputable timeshare exit companies
The Stonegate Firm
Best Overall
Why we selected it
If you’ve determined that hiring a timeshare exit company is the best route, Stonegate may be a good fit based on your situation. It’s currently the only timeshare cancellation company that partners with a co-branded law firm, Stonegate Law.
The company takes a unique approach with a model of “limited scope legal representation,” giving you the benefit of an attorney to handle the legal aspects of your cancellation.
The company is honest about being a “last resort” for timeshare owners and never recommends defaulting on your mortgage or contract. Stonegate is a standout pick if you have a complex case and have already tried to work directly with the resort to resolve it. While escrow is an option, it’s not the only payment route you can take.
- Former timeshare resort executives on staff
- Partners with a co-branded law firm
- Doesn’t recommend default
- Helpful and responsive customer service
- Limited details about payment plan options
- Must complete case review for pricing information
| Initial consultations | Free virtual case review |
| Fees | One-time fixed fee |
| Process | Eligibility check, legal review, strategy session, and execution |
| BBB rating | 5.0/5 |
What customers say
The Stonegate Firm has impressive customer reviews, with 4.5 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot. Most customers are happy with the company’s process, communication, and results. Customers also mention Stonegate’s accessible payment options.
“[I] avoided foreclosure by hiring Stonegate Firm … They had a deal where I could make monthly payments so that’s what I chose to do. My timeshare was about to be in foreclosure, and I would have been in bad shape had I not hired them…” says one reviewer on Trustpilot.
I would refer my client to a professional if they are experiencing financial stress, such as being behind on maintenance fees or facing default, lack the time to navigate the exit process themselves, have previously attempted to exit unsuccessfully, or are seeking legal protection and guidance.
Lonestar Transfer
Best for Title Transfer
Why we selected it
Lonestar Transfer is one of the most established names in the industry, with more than a decade of experience helping owners permanently transfer their timeshares.
Unlike cancellation-only companies, Lonestar focuses on deed-backs and title transfers, which can be an appealing option if you want a clean, paperwork-driven exit instead of a legal negotiation. The company also offers a money-back guarantee and maintains a long-standing A+ BBB rating.
- 13+ years in business
- Specializes in deed-backs and title transfers
- Great customer reviews and A+ BBB rating
- Clear, straightforward process
- No legal representation
- Pricing shared only after consultation
- Not ideal if your account is behind or in foreclosure
- Not BBB-accredited
| Initial consultations | Free consultation and case review |
| Fees | One-time flat fee (website says fees range from $6,000 to more than $15,000) |
| Process | Case review → custom exit plan → deed-back or title transfer |
| BBB rating | A+; 4.95/5 customer rating (not accredited) |
What customers say
Reviews consistently mention the company’s professionalism and step-by-step guidance. Owners appreciate that Lonestar sets expectations clearly and focuses on practical transfer solutions.
Centerstone Group
Best Customer Support
Why we selected it
Centerstone Group offers a generous money-back guarantee, impressive customer service, and verified, legitimate business practices.
The company uses a third-party escrow account to hold payments, which adds an extra layer of accountability for the company and security for you. It’s also one of the only timeshare exit companies with Spanish agents and an established process for timeshares in Mexico.
- 3 flexible exit strategies
- Spanish-speaking agents
- Helpful customer representatives
- Money-saving qualification process
- Not available in North Carolina
- Not transparent about pricing
| Initial consultations | Free 30-minute consultation |
| Fees | One-time flat fee |
| Process | Pressure campaigns, title transfer, or attorney representation |
| BBB rating | 4.77/5 |
What customers say
Centerstone Group earns higher-than-average customer ratings—4.6 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews. Positive reviews repeatedly mention that the company’s communication is impressive.
You can read multiple reviews stating that the service works and that people successfully end timeshare contracts.
One reviewer says, “We initially thought we would be tied to our timeshare indefinitely … Their professionalism and clear communication made the entire experience much easier than anticipated.”
Kubiak Enterprise
Best for Money-Back Guarantee
Why we selected it
Kubiak Enterprise is a family-owned business with 12 years of experience. You can work with the company to cancel your contract or mortgage. Kubiak has a 100% success rate and is selective about the timeshares it works on, but you don’t need to be up-to-date on all fees or taxes.
Kubiak stands out as the only timeshare exit company to earn the BBB’s Torch Award for Ethics in 2020. You won’t find any BBB complaints, and customer reviews are mostly positive across different sites. The money-back-guarantee states you’ll automatically receive your timeshare back if it’s not resolved within two years.
- Award-winning company
- Zero BBB complaints
- 100% success rate
- Generous money-back guarantee
- No escrow account
- Limited contact information
| Initial consultations | Intake form and follow-up fee |
| Fees | One-time flat fee |
| Process | Depends on initial assessment |
| BBB rating | 5.0/5 |
What customers say
Kubiak Enterprise earns an impressive 4.3 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot and 5.0 out of 5 on the BBB. However, the number of reviews is limited (about 20 total), so it’s more difficult to understand the customer experience.
The reviews that exist are overwhelmingly positive, though. Customers appreciate that the company delivers results, especially after having bad experiences with other companies in the industry.
One former customer says, “…Over a period of five years, I had spent several thousand dollars, worked with two law firms and later, I learned that one of them was using a blacklisted lawyer. If your story is similar to mine and you’re trying to unload a timeshare, you need to work with Kubiak…”
Linx Legal
Best for Contract Cancellation
Why we selected it
Linx Legal is one of the longest-standing timeshare exit companies, having been in business since 2009. Linx’s goal is to cancel timeshare contracts. This is the most clear-cut solution for owners, but not every company aims for this.
A representative from Linx Legal told our team that the company offers and stands by a money-back guarantee.
- Goal is to cancel contracts
- Established company with a long history
- Positive customer reviews
- Money-back guarantee
- Not a legal firm
- No escrow account
| Initial consultations | Free consultation and case review |
| Fees | One-time flat fee; financing available with lending partners |
| Process | Detailed case review, offers a solution and then works to make it happen |
| BBB rating | 4.87/5 |
What customers say
Many customers on Trustpilot and BBB praise Linx Legal for being dependable, professional, and communicative throughout the timeshare cancellation process. They highlight how case managers kept them updated, responded quickly to questions, and offered consistent reassurance.
Positive reviews often mention successful outcomes, with clients expressing relief and gratitude after being released from their timeshares. The team is described as kind, patient, and attentive, making a stressful process feel manageable.
However, a few reviewers raised concerns about delays, lack of follow-up, or difficulty getting responses after the initial onboarding. Some complaints centered around long timelines, unclear updates, or challenges obtaining refunds. However, Linx Legal typically responds to complaints promptly and professionally, often reaffirming its money-back guarantee and working to resolve outstanding issues.
Timeshare Specialists
Best for Timeshare Resale
Why we selected it
Timeshare Specialists is the best option for reselling your timeshare and transferring ownership. While other timeshare exit companies focus on canceling contracts and finding legal loopholes, Timeshare Specialists sells existing contracts to new owners.
Timeshare Specialists guarantees the sale or transfer. However, you can’t work with the company if you have a mortgage or owe any outstanding fees, which can be a deal breaker for some owners.
- No upfront payments
- Guaranteed sale or transfer
- Licensed, bonded, and insured escrow company
- Transparent process
- Can’t owe any fees
- Must be mortgage-free
- No BBB customer reviews
| Initial consultations | Free consultation |
| Fees | Payment due after sale or transfer |
| Process | Guaranteed transfer plan, brokerage services, or sales |
| BBB rating | No reviews |
What customers say
More than 400 positive reviews for Timeshare Specialists on Trustpilot rate the company 4.8 out of 5 stars. Customers appreciate the clear communication, effective sales strategies, and no upfront fees.
One of the company’s customers says, “This group of people were great. A clear fixed fee approach, that is not payable until after they are successful. No multi-year binding contracts, just upfront professional organization…”
However, even though the business is accredited, you won’t find any BBB reviews. The number of reviews on the other sites helps offset the lack of reviews on the BBB, but there is a noticeable absence.
Pros and cons
Pros
-
Stronger strategies
Some of the companies use negotiation tactics you might not know about, including advice from lawyers and former timeshare executives.
-
Last resort if you’re stuck
If you’ve tried everything to get out of your timeshare, knowing you have a last resort and can hire a company is helpful.
Cons
-
High price tag
Timeshare exit companies are expensive, and getting exact quotes is nearly impossible until you have a consultation. You can expect to pay at least a couple of thousand dollars, and often much more.
-
Hard to avoid scams
Like the timeshare industry, the timeshare exit industry has scammers. Companies promise to get you out of contracts and guarantee results, but never deliver.
At Stonegate, we negotiate deed-back solutions, settlement offers, and voluntary exits every day. These are real legal resolutions, not form letters.
Pro tip: The best way to avoid a timeshare exit scam is to ask questions and research companies before you pay. According to the Federal Trade Commission, you should always ask about fees and licenses and get the answers in writing.
I’d compare the timeshare exit fee to ongoing costs to find the breakeven point. If the fee equals three to four years of maintenance, it may be worth it. I’d also review any money-back guarantee terms closely and suggest choosing a reputable company experienced with that type of timeshare.
How to avoid timeshare exit scams
The timeshare exit industry has several reputable companies and plenty of bad actors. Scams often target overwhelmed owners who want a quick fix, so it’s worth taking a few minutes to vet any company before you sign.
Here’s what to watch for:
Red flags
- Pressure to sign the same day
- Unsolicited calls telling you they “have a buyer waiting”
- No written agreement
- Guarantees of instant cancellation
- Advice to stop paying your mortgage or maintenance fees
- No customer reviews or unresolved BBB complaints
Dennis Donovan, Esq., of Stonegate echoes the same caution:
Defaulting on a contract isn’t a legal exit. It can lead to foreclosure and lasting financial damage.
Green flags
- BBB accreditation and a clear complaint history
- Written money-back guarantee terms
- Attorney involvement or documented legal expertise
- Escrow payment options (when available)
- Transparent pricing during or after the initial consultation
- Realistic timelines (most exits are not quick)
If something feels off, don’t ignore it. You can always get a free consultation from more than one company.
Alternatives to timeshare exit companies
Before hiring a company, try lower-cost or no-cost options first. Many owners resolve their situation without paying thousands of dollars.
1. Use the rescission period
Every timeshare contract comes with a legally required cooling-off period, usually three to 10 days, but sometimes longer depending on state law.
To rescind, send a certified letter stating your intent to cancel, and request a delivery receipt.
2. Request a deed-back or surrender program
Many resorts offer official surrender programs if:
- Your account is current
- You have no unpaid special assessments
- The property is eligible for re-inventory
This is often the simplest, cleanest way to exit.
3. Contact your resort directly
Ask about:
- Hardship programs
- Transfer departments
- Loan payoff options
- Loyalty exit programs
Some owners resolve their situation in one phone call.
4. Sell your timeshare independently
- RedWeek
- Timeshare Users Group
- eBay (common for low-value weeks)
- Local marketplace listings
You will need to screen buyers carefully and work with a legitimate closing company.
Check out ARDA’s guide to exiting your timeshare contract.
5. Work with a licensed real-estate broker for timeshares
Some brokers specialize in selling or transferring deeded weeks and points-based contracts.
6. Consult with a consumer rights attorney
If misrepresentations occurred during the sales process, an attorney may be able to:
- Challenge contract terms
- Negotiate directly with the resort
- Handle foreclosure or delinquency situations
7. Use a timeshare resale or transfer company
Companies such as Timeshare Specialists focus exclusively on resale and transfer, not cancellation, which can be a cheaper alternative if your timeshare is eligible.
FAQ
How long does it take to get out of a timeshare?
Most owners exit a timeshare in six to 18 months, depending on the resort, contract type, and whether legal issues are involved. Stonegate, our top choice, quotes an average of around 10 months. Faster resolutions (30 to 90 days) are possible when a resort approves a deed-back or direct release.
Are timeshare exit companies legitimate?
Some are legitimate, but the industry also has well-documented scams. Legit exit companies offer written agreements, transparent pricing, and clear expectations. Many also provide escrow or attorney representation. Avoid companies that pressure you to sign immediately or encourage you to stop paying your bills.
What’s the difference between cancellation and title transfer?
Cancellation terminates the contract and releases you from future ownership and fees.
Title transfer moves ownership to someone else through a deed-back, resale, or brokerage process.
Both are valid routes, but cancellation is more common for owners with mortgages or complex contracts.
Can I get out of a timeshare for free?
Yes, if you’re still within your rescission period, typically three to 10 days depending on your state. Some developers also offer no-cost deed-back programs if your account is current and the timeshare meets their criteria.
What happens if I stop paying my timeshare?
You may face collections, foreclosure, and negative credit reporting. Resorts have strong legal teams, and unpaid balances can escalate quickly. As Stonegate’s attorney Dennis Donovan puts it:
Walking away and hoping nothing happens is not the same as being released.
If you’re behind, an exit company or attorney may still be able to negotiate a solution.
Can timeshare exit companies help if I’m already in foreclosure?
Some can. Stonegate might be better suited for delinquent accounts or foreclosure situations because it’s an attorney-led firm, meaning the team understands state-specific laws and can negotiate directly with the resort’s legal team.
Can I cancel a timeshare I’ve owned for years?
Yes. The length of ownership doesn’t affect your ability to pursue cancellation. Many owners seek help after 10 to 20 years of rising maintenance fees.
How do I know if my timeshare is eligible for cancellation?
Eligibility depends on factors such as the contract type, state laws, whether misrepresentations occurred, and your payment status. A free eligibility review, which reputable companies offer, can help you understand your options before you commit.
Can a lawyer help me get out of a timeshare?
Yes. Timeshare contracts are legal agreements, and attorneys can negotiate cancellations, review foreclosure documents, and challenge misrepresentations. That’s one reason Stonegate is our No. 1 choice: It includes legal support, beneficial if negotiations escalate.
How much does a timeshare exit company cost?
Most companies charge $3,000 to $8,000, depending on complexity. Attorney-involved cases are typically more expensive. Many providers offer payment plans or alternative financing.
What is the cheapest way to get out of a timeshare?
The most affordable options are:
- Using your rescission period
- Requesting a deed-back directly from your resort
- Selling your timeshare independently
These options are free or low cost, but they require more legwork.
Should I work with a timeshare exit company or try to cancel on my own?
Start with DIY methods first. Rescind if you can, ask your resort about deed-backs, and explore the resale market. If those steps don’t work, we recommend choosing a company with proven results and transparent practices.
List of timeshare exit companies we evaluated
- Centerstone Group
- Kubiak Enterprise
- Linx Legal
- Lonestar Transfer
- The Stonegate Firm
- Timeshare Specialists
Recap of the best timeshare exit companies
There are other exit companies celebrating helping thousands of people. If that’s true, great, but I’m a little dubious. Helping someone doesn’t mean sending a form letter.
About our contributors
-
Written by Taylor Milam-SamuelTaylor Milam-Samuel is a personal finance writer and credentialed educator who is passionate about helping people take control of their finances and create a life they love. When she's not researching financial terms and conditions, she can be found in the classroom teaching.
-
Edited by Kristen Barrett, MATKristen Barrett is a managing editor at LendEDU. She lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, with her wife and their three senior rescue dogs. She has edited and written personal finance content since 2015.
-
Reviewed by Erin Kinkade, CFP®Erin Kinkade, CFP®, ChFC®, works as a financial planner at AAFMAA Wealth Management & Trust. Erin prepares comprehensive financial plans for military veterans and their families.