Diamond Resorts is a timeshare company that has been around since 1996. They offer vacation ownership to customers, allowing them to purchase a timeshare at one of their many properties. However, despite their long history, Diamond Resorts has garnered a bad reputation and many negative reviews from customers. In this article, we will discuss some of the reasons behind Diamond Resorts’ bad reputation and negative reviews.
Sales Tactics
One of the most common complaints against Diamond Resorts is their high-pressure sales tactics. Many customers have reported feeling pressured into purchasing a timeshare, even after stating that they were not interested. Some have even reported being lied to or misled about the terms and conditions of their purchase.
Diamond Resorts has been accused of using unethical sales practices, such as not disclosing all fees associated with the timeshare or promising benefits that do not exist. Some customers have reported that sales representatives have made false promises about the resale value of their timeshare or the ability to exchange their timeshare for other properties.
Customer Service
Another common complaint against Diamond Resorts is their poor customer service. Customers have reported difficulty in getting in touch with customer service representatives, long wait times on the phone, and unhelpful responses from representatives. Many customers have reported feeling ignored or dismissed when trying to resolve issues with their timeshare.
Cancellation Process
Customers have also reported difficulty in canceling their timeshare with Diamond Resorts. Some have reported that Diamond Resorts makes it nearly impossible to cancel a timeshare contract, even if the customer is willing to pay cancellation fees. Many customers have reported being stuck with a timeshare they no longer want or need and being unable to sell or transfer it.
Maintenance Fees
Another common complaint against Diamond Resorts is their high maintenance fees. Customers have reported that the maintenance fees associated with their timeshare are much higher than what was initially disclosed to them. Some customers have reported being charged fees for amenities they never use or fees for upgrades they did not request.
Resort Quality
Customers have also reported issues with the quality of Diamond Resorts’ properties. Some have reported that the properties are outdated or not well-maintained. Others have reported that the properties are not as advertised, with photos on the website not matching the actual property. Customers have also reported issues with cleanliness, such as dirty rooms or unkept grounds.
Legal Issues
Diamond Resorts has also faced legal issues over the years. In 2017, they were fined $800,000 by the Arizona Attorney General’s Office for deceptive sales practices. In 2019, they were ordered to pay $20 million in restitution to customers in a settlement with the Nevada Attorney General’s Office. These legal issues have contributed to Diamond Resorts’ negative reputation and reviews.
Conclusion
Diamond Resorts has faced many complaints and negative reviews over the years, largely due to their high-pressure sales tactics, poor customer service, difficulty in canceling contracts, high maintenance fees, and issues with resort quality. While not all customers have had negative experiences with Diamond Resorts, the sheer number of complaints and legal issues surrounding the company suggest that caution should be exercised before entering into a timeshare contract with them. It is important for customers to thoroughly research any timeshare company before making a purchase and to carefully review all terms and conditions before signing a contract.
