The Lee County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents to be aware of potential scammers targeting owners of timeshare properties.

The scammers make unsolicited calls to current timeshare owners with  promises of financial profit, and claim to be able to get owners out of their timeshare contracts by paying up-front fees, ranging from $200 to $8,000.

The Sheriff’s Office says some timeshare owners have lost thousands of dollars to these scams, and never ended up
selling their property.

Lee County Sheriff’s Office  has offered a few tips to follow when dealing with timeshare telemarketers or vacation rentals.

1) If someone promises to sell your timeshare or tells you they have a buyer but need cash upfront DON’T do it! You wouldn’t pay a realtor to sell your home before they sell it, would you?

2) Companies that cold call you are more than likely a scam. Don’t do business with them as legitimate timeshare companies generally never initiate contact with you first.

3) Refuse to be pressured. Legitimate businesses do not demand that you make a snap decision. They welcome your questions and will encourage you to consult with experts and other reliable sources. Do not sign anything you do not understand.

4) Avoid sending cash, check or a money order should you decide to utilize a timeshare rental.