Arizona Central's news website picked up an Associated Press story today entitled "Is it worth it to buy a timeshare?" (source) 

Throughout the story there are illustrations of how the cost of buying a timeshare factors out over time.  Their conclusion is that if your vacations involve staying in a budget motel for extended periods, timeshare may not be for you.  But if you are looking for five star luxury, golf, tennis, entertainment, full sized accommodations, and beautiful scenery at a serious discount, buying a timeshare would be a smart choice.  Especially if you buy a timeshare on the secondary market from an owner.  You will save thousands off the developers price and have most, if not all, the same privileges.

The safest way to go about buying a timeshare would be to use a broker who specializes in timeshare resales.  For example take a look at www.rpmls.com:  Hundreds of properties at the best resorts - and all for a serious discount.

Resale beats retail!