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Personal Finance Timeshare Exit

How to Get Out of a Wyndham Timeshare Safely and Legally

Whether your vacation habits have changed, the maintenance fees are piling up, or you never intended to own one in the first place … 

… getting out of a Wyndham timeshare isn’t always easy—but it is possible.

Wyndham has its own exit program and resale platform, but like most timeshare contracts, the fine print can be confusing. And unfortunately, the industry is full of exit scams that prey on frustrated owners.

Here’s how to get out of a Wyndham timeshare safely and legally.

Table of Contents

Step 1: Review your contract for exit terms

Before you do anything else, dig up your original Wyndham timeshare contract. This is where you’ll find key details that determine what options are available to you, including:

  • Whether you’re still in the rescission window. If you recently bought your timeshare, you may still be able to cancel it penalty-free. Wyndham’s cancellation period varies by state, but many are between three and 15 days after signing.
  • What type of ownership you have. Wyndham offers both deeded ownership (you own a physical share of real estate) and right-to-use contracts (you lease usage rights for a set period). This matters because it could affect your ability to sell or transfer your interest.

If you can’t find your paperwork, try logging into your Wyndham owner portal or calling its owner services line to request a copy. It’s much easier to negotiate your way out if you know exactly what you signed.

WARNING: DO NOT purchase more points or pay for upgrades if you contact Wyndham about getting out of your timeshare. There have been horror stories about timeshare owners calling to cancel, only to be talked into buying another timeshare as an upgrade. 

Step 2: Start with Certified Exit—backed by Wyndham™

If you’re ready to walk away from your timeshare, your first call should be to Wyndham’s official exit program: Certified Exit—backed by Wyndham™.

This free service is part of Wyndham Cares and was formerly known as Ovation. It connects you with a Certified Exit Specialist who can walk you through your options.

Depending on your situation, you might qualify for:

  • A deedback of your ownership in as little as 90 days (if your loan is paid off)
  • Help listing your timeshare for resale
  • A family transfer of your membership
  • A hardship exception (if you’re experiencing personal or financial struggles)

Wyndham says most exit paths through Certified Exit are low or no cost, and there’s no obligation to purchase additional points or credits to qualify.

To get started, visit the Wyndham Exit website or call 855-312-9040 to connect with a specialist.

Avoid imposters: If someone contacts you claiming to be with Wyndham and demands money to start the exit process, it’s likely a scam. Wyndham’s official program is free. Learn how to protect yourself in our guides to selling your timeshare and common exit scams.

Step 3: Explore legitimate resale or transfer options

If you don’t qualify for Certified Exit or want to try recouping some of your costs, resale might be an option. But be careful. Timeshare resale is notoriously tricky and rife with scams.

Here’s how to stay safe:

  • Set realistic expectations. Most timeshares sell for a fraction of their original price, especially if they come with ongoing maintenance fees.
  • Stick with trusted platforms. Consider sites like Fidelity Real Estate (an ARDA member and authorized Wyndham reseller), RedWeek, or Timeshare Users Group (TUG), which specialize in verified timeshare resales.
  • Coordinate with Wyndham. If you find a buyer, you’ll want to follow Wyndham’s ownership transfer process to make sure the new owner is properly vetted and you’re officially released from the contract. This process typically requires Wyndham’s sign-off, so it’s worth calling Wyndham Cares to ensure you’re following the right steps.

Step 4: Talk to a real estate attorney (especially for inherited or complex cases)

If you’ve inherited a Wyndham timeshare or feel stuck in a confusing contract, a real estate attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options. This is especially important if:

  • You’re unsure whether you legally have to keep the timeshare.
  • You believe the original sale involved misrepresentation or pressure tactics.
  • You’re worried about the financial or tax implications of giving it up.

Many attorneys offer a free consultation, so it’s worth reaching out before making any big moves. Just be sure to work with someone who has specific experience with timeshare law versus general real estate.

Did you know? Around 16% of timeshares are inherited, according to ARDA. If you’re handling a timeshare after a loved one’s death: you typically aren’t required to assume it. An attorney can help you formally disclaim the inheritance so you’re not on the hook for future fees.

Step 5: Work with a reputable timeshare exit company (if needed)

If you’ve exhausted your options with Wyndham and can’t sell or surrender your timeshare, it may be time to call in a professional. But if you do work with an exit company, choose very carefully.

Many firms charge thousands of dollars upfront, outsource your case, or pressure you to stop making payments. This strategy—known as strategic default—can lead to foreclosure, lawsuits, and lasting credit damage. It’s risky, and it’s one reason why it’s best to work with only the best timeshare exit companies .

👉 Stonegate Firm, for example, is one of the few exit firms that does not recommend strategic default. It relies on a legal approach instead: working with consumer protection attorneys to challenge the events that led up to the signing of your contract. It’s a slower, more thorough process but a safer one.

Here’s what makes Stonegate different:

  • It’s partnered with a co-branded law firm, which gives it access to licensed attorneys throughout the process.
  • It never cold-calls or pressures people into leaving its timeshare.
  • It is transparent about fees—while it does charge upfront, it also offers financing and is equipped to handle more complex legal situations, like inherited timeshares or contracts involving foreclosure.
  • It does not outsource your case. Every exit is handled in-house with a dedicated team.

Pro tip: If you’re evaluating other exit firms, ask how the company plans to exit you. If it says anything about “pressure campaigns” or suggests you stop paying right away, that’s a major red flag.

Step 6: Don’t stop paying without understanding the consequences

If you’re feeling stuck with mounting fees or a contract you regret, walking away might sound like the easiest solution. But stopping payments or using strategic default can backfire fast.

Wyndham may send your account to collections, take legal action, or report the delinquency to credit bureaus. That can tank your credit and make it even harder to resolve the situation.

Even trusted exit firms like The Stonegate Firm strongly caution against default unless every other option has been tried.

If you’re behind or struggling to keep up:

  • Call Wyndham Financial Services to ask about hardship assistance or payment deferrals.
  • Consult a real estate attorney to explore possible negotiation or legal release options.
  • Work with a reputable exit company that prioritizes legal, cooperative solutions instead of scare tactics.

Defaulting should be your absolute last resort. There are safer, more sustainable ways out. Explore those options before making a decision that could follow you for years.

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