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We need to get the word out before more innocent people get scammed. The Villa Group and UVC are in the process of building 2 new resorts and you know what that means, they need more timeshare owners. If only they honored what they sell... that's all anyone wants, no more, no less.
The Villa Group or UVC does not seem to care about their existing customers and they do not tell the truth in their sales presentations. We have tried to fix our issues with just about everyone with the Villa Group and UVC and they have done absolutely nothing. Below is our original complaint sent to UVC and the Villa Group. Since complaining, all 3 of our referrals that are joining us next week at the property were called within the last day and informed that they are "ineligible for the referral program because they are traveling with us" - so they are no longer being offered the round-trip transportation to/from the airport/resort or the $300.00 in resort credit - retailiation? Who are these people? Should we be afraid when we arrive on Sunday? Stay tuned!
To make matters worse, today I get my UVC newsletter in the mail where they are promoting their "referral program" and claim that referrals can stay for $25.00 per night. So why was I charged $987.00 to upgrade my unit to accomidate our "referrals" that are joining us and why did we have go through a travel agent to book an additional night at the resort when our flight was cancelled and we were booked on a flight a day later? (UVC said they were sold out and couldn't help. So what exactly are we getting for the $17K we've spent plus yearly maintence?
Background:
On August 4, 2006 while we were in Cabo San Lucas, we were approached by a Villa Group Senior Sales Representative, Linda Salisbury, about an exciting opportunity to purchase a timeshare at a soon to be developed premier resort called Villa Del Arco. She invited us to tour the property and hear about the exciting pre-development discount pricing being offered by the Villa Group/ResortCom International. Ms. Salisbury then drove us to the property where we were shown the future layout of the resort (still under construction) and an already built and furnished 1-bedroom unit. Liking what we saw, we then sat down with Ms. Salisbury to discuss the details of purchasing a 1-bedroom unit at Villa Del Arco. Following are the contract terms we were promised if we purchased and became owners of a 1-bedroom unit during the summer season (weeks 18 - 43) for the purchase price of $16, 995.00:
1. Two 1-bedroom ocean view/pool view units for the price of one unit - second unit was called a "Gold Week"
2. Guaranteed use of 1 1-bedroom unit for two weeks each year or 2 1-bedroom units for 1 week each year.
3. As a "Gold Member/Property Owner" we would have the right to use our "Gold Week" anytime during our summer season.
4. Guaranteed stay at Villa Del Arco during our time slot or the option to use Interval International to travel elsewhere.
5. Guaranteed owner priority reservations.
6. Guaranteed owner priority upgrades to larger units if available at no additional cost.
7. Guaranteed extended stay at maintenance fee rates.
6. UVC and Interval International membership.
7. Maintenance fees not to exceed $602.00 per unit per year.
8. Complimentary resort shuttle service to and from the airport to the resort.
9. Resort use is exclusive to timeshare owners and will not be available to the open market. This was explained to ensure member use, unlike other timeshares.
All sounded wonderful to us and we entered into a contract and became timeshare owners, paying for our purchase in full.
Issues from the beginning:
Our problems began with our first attempt to stay at the property:
We wanted to use 2 units for 1 week in June 2007 and were told that because of the high demand from owners, the Villa group could not honor the 2nd unit. After a lot of complaining and run around, we were finally granted the use of the second unit. We were also informed that the complimentary shuttle service was not yet being honored and we had to rent a car for the week at a cost of $875.00 Upon arrival at the property we were put in units that faced the swamp next door (no ocean/pool view) and in the middle of very noisy construction. We complained to member services and they informed us that there was nothing they could do - the resort was sold out.
After being at the resort for 2 days and constantly going to the front desk to see about being moved, we learned from the hotel manager that the resort was not sold out and in fact units with views were available but not for "timeshare owners" - the Villa group only owned 35% of the resort and those were sold out. If we wanted to purchase units with better views we could directly from the hotel at a cost of $425.00 per night. This was clearly not acceptable and we immediately went to the member services desk where we literally made a scene. We were quickly moved into the type of units we purchased.
2008 reservation issues:
We elected to not vacation at the resort in 2008 when we were told there was no availability for 2 units - clearly a breach of contract.
2009 reservation issues:
Over a year ago we booked 2 1-bedroom units for the week of 7/12 - 7/19, 2009 - we originally wanted to vacation in June (not July) but even booking a year in advance we were told it wasn't available - so we adjusted our plans and made a reservation in July.
Shortly after two different couples we know were interested in vacationing with us and to possibly buy into the resort. We contacted member services to see about upgrading one of our units to a 2-bedroom so that we could all fit. We were told that the resort was sold out and there was nothing member services could do about an upgrade. We then called the hotel and learned that was not true and 2-bedroom units were available (again through purchase direct from the hotel) we also checked Expedia and Travelocity and sure enough there is availability. We contacted UVC and were told those units were not available to us - the Villa Group only owns 35% of the property. We then called the on-site Villa Group reservation manager, Blanca Montes, who confirmed the same. After many phone calls and threats, we were able to upgrade 1 of our units to a 2-bedroom at an additional cost of $987.00. So much for your referral program. 2 days later we saw on your Villa Group website that we could of and should of been able to upgrade that unit for only $25.00.
Then in early June we we received a call from Alaska Airlines informing us that our return flight on 7/19 was canceled and we were moved to a flight on 7/20. We immediately contacted UVC about adding an additional night for each unit and were told that we could not - the resort is sold out. Knowing this was not true (we called the hotel and looked on-line) we began making phone calls everywhere. To this day this additional night has not been resolved and we have no idea where we are staying the night of 7/19.
Class-Action Law Suit
Clearly we are not alone in being misrepresented by your company/company representatives. We were contacted recently by an attorney representing 48 other Villa Group/Villa Del Arco property owners about a class-action breach of contract law suit that will seek full purchase price refunds. We have our own file documenting everything as well as the video tape from the sales presentation.
This has become the biggest nightmare and possibly the biggest investment mistake we have ever made. We have spent numerous hours trying to work with your company and have no choice but to keep our reservation this year, but still need an additional night. We also do not feel we should have had to pay the additional $987.00 for the upgraded unit since we are bringing people who are set up to hear your sales presentation. We also do not yet know how we are getting to/from the airport to the resort - apparently your shuttle service is "still not available." (current status: we booked on own final night through a travel agent - UVC still couldn't help us)
We look forward to hearing what your/your company plans to do to rectify this situation and ask that we receive an email back within 24 hours. We would also like to inform you that our family attorney will also be in Cabo San Lucas the same week we are there to do his own investigation on our behalf. We refuse to be taken advantage of and also feel an obligation to ensure this never happens to anyone else.
Sincerely,
Ernest and Terri Silva
Member #: 16-25063
November 2010 Got conned into UVC group. They were adamant that we could resale our weeks in the rental pool for approximately 1500$. I put two weeks into the rental pool this past year and they provided 350$ total compensation. That doesnt even cover the maintenance fees associated with the timeshare. Spent approximately 9k on the 1 week annual floater every other year and its a total rip off. Essentially paying 1200$ for 1 week, which is absolutely insane. I have tried to contact them and no response. I've emailed them regarding surrendering the property but that puts me out 10k right away plus they want me to pay maintenance to surrender it.
I'd like to participate in the class action suit, if you could provide me any information regarding this it would be greatly appreciated. Saldrin@hotmail.com.
We got screwed over by Villa Group also how so we get intouch with the attorneys any suggestions/ Dustin
HELP - how can I get added to the Class Action Lawsuit against the Villa Group Timeshare sales? We purchased one in 2008. Having problems making reservations at other Villa Group locations, even though we were told verbally that we could book at all existing and upcoming Villa Group resorts and not to be worried about that it wasn't noted in our contract. They are now not allowing members to book at other resorts. Someone please email me at expectinghisbest-01@yahoo.com about how we can join the class action lawsuit.. Anxious to learn more. Thank you.
Ernest - I would also like information regarding the attorney's contact information and class action suit. I am having similar problems with them not honoring our contract or responding/returning calls. Thanks!
The whole country is a mess. Here's what just happened to me. If there is a class action suit, how do I get involved?
This is a very engaging scam. I dealt with Mr. Victor Mendoza, theoretically with the Mexican Government on a movement to fix the timeshare industry. The Villa Group in Nuevo Vallarta lied to entice me to buy a Christmas Week timeshare and I’ve been trying to find resolution for years. After writing up and submitting my Claim, Mr. Mendoza informed me that I would relinquish my ownership and get my money back plus a 30% penalty but that he was unable to get back my maintenance fees. All the paperwork looked very official. Mr. Mendoza put me in touch with Mr. Oliver Gonzales from BBVA Bancomer, Bank of Mexico, to arrange the payment. I checked his phone number [protected] and it was answered by a woman as Bank of Mexico. Then he asked for $2131.48 as a verification deposit and I knew I was being scammed. So close. I hate the Villa Group enough to keep trying to get restitution, but not enough to keep investing good money after bad. - See more at: http://insidethegate.com/gatehouse/2014/08/mexico-timeshare-fraud-news-august-23-2014/#comments
As anyone heard of Rivera & Gomez attorney's in Mexico? I called to get info on getting out of my timeshare and a refund from Acro Villa group in Cabo after totally getting scammed and then deathly sick after the fishing boat they sent us on! He answered the phone saying hello, I said is this Gomez Law firm, he said yes (thought someone would answer by there law firms name) and I gave him the info about my contract and such and said he could help me, no money up front until I win my case and refund, seems to easy, anyone with info or results?
Please post any information on class action law suit, we want in.
We are not getting anywhere with the long distance calls, emails, etc...
Yes this is a Scam ! They are really professional con artists... They have every story covered. Thank goodness my bank would NOT allow me to wire the money. The key is the e-mail address they use is NOT the government site. See the difference between (.) and( - ). I feel so stupid... But glad I saw the lught in time.
fdw017c it is a scam, be careful. Profeco does not contact people out of the blue. Consumers approach them, not the other way around. You are on the scammers list of possible victims. You will not see your deposit back once you give it to them. Do not continue working with them!
I have been working with PROFECO the past few weeks, as they contacted me on Jan 30, 2014. It is regarding a timeshare I purchased in 2009 with Mayan Palace. They indicated that SECTUR (Secretary of Tourism) has settled with many timeshare companies accused of unlawful business practices and there are monies to provided to victims of this fraud. I am close to receiving my settlement but the process requires me to make a "marginal deposit" of 16% of my settlement. This deposit is to be returned to me with the settlement. Both in the form of wire transfers handled by Banco de Mexico. PROFECO is the consumer protection agency of Mexico. Has anymore else been contacted or proceeded in recovering damages through this process. Obviously I am very skeptical after going through what I did with the timeshare company and now this. Please help.
UVC sales scam 2009 Flamingo. Yep. I was suckered into 60 weeks of vacation. How stupid is that? I too have had buyers remorse every day since signing that contract. This week I have was contacted by a legal firm in Mexico The Prefeco. They say they are working in the interest of tourists being swindled by the timeshare industry. They say thay have a class action suit in the works. Has anyone heard from this group? I did not provide them any personal information just a dollar amount I would love to recover. I am sure it is another sub scam from the industry but I had to try something. I should have added the counseling fees I have paid to get over my anxiety about this financial burden. Here is part of the e-mail I recieved "Subprocaduria de Servicios de Verificacion with Procuraduria de Profeco, the department that has been commissioned to address this issue. Profeco has specifically been tasked with establishing the degree of dissatisfaction experienced by Members.
"This is a complex process involving several Government agencies. However, Subprocaduria de Servicios de Verificacion, affiliated with, and under the auspices of Profeco, is the principal orchestrator in the execution of laws and regulations set forth by the constitution of Profeco. Such laws have been developed to protect visitors vulnerable to fraud, to address complaints, to investigate unlawful practices at the expense of foreign visitors to Mexico, and to repair damages if any have been suffered." Lic. Armando Sandoval AvilaProcuraduría Federal Del ConsumidorTel: [protected]
Fax: [protected]
Somebody weigh in I will appreciate your views.
Please count us in as well for the class action law suit. We were talked into buying 4 weeks in Puerta Vallarta in 2007 with the
promise that we could rent the unit and recoup our investment in 5 years. We are both professionals but somehow did not see the
writing on the wall that this is a big scam. Unfortunately due to illness we were not able to resolve this matter but after reading this site we too like to join the class action law suit.
soekoro1@verizon.net
I know how you feel, and it seems like this is a common problen in Mexico. I purchased a travel program through Sandos Playacar at Royal Elite Timeshare Resort in Playa del Carmen last March and I requested to cancel within the 5 day grace period but they still have not refunded my down payment of over $9000 US dollars. I have been in touch with people there and they say they are working the process but it takes time. It has now been almost 5 months and I am losing faith they will ever pay me back. This is another forum with more complaints about this company:
http://www.timesharescam.com/timeshare-complaints-resorts-black-list/6-royal-elite-sandos-timeshare-complaints/
I believe we should do something about it, as I understand Mexican regulations forbid the offering of gifts, free vacation certificates or any other promotion strategies without informing the consumer the specific purpose of the offer. I want to complaint with PROFECO about this, and get my money back
Hi there! i'm sorry you got caught, villa del palmar is actually one of the most fraudulent timeshare companies in Mexico. Why don't you try to cancel the contract? you should check out this forum with more complaints about this company, maybe you can get some ideas from there:
http://www.timesharescam.com/resorts-black-list/2-villa-del-palmar-timeshare-complaints/
don't let those crooks to get away with it
gIVE ME DETAILS ON THE CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT JLARA@CCCNEB.EDU
My wife and I were lied to by a salesman in July of 2013 in Nueva Vallarta, Nayarit, at the Villa del Palmar. We were tricked into getting a studio when we thought we were getting a 2 bedroom unit by a salesman who has a criminal record in the US and was deported (see Cano Carreno vs US). I think Villa Group finds these types ideal employees as I have not had any luck finding anyone there who is committed to making a good faith effort to resolve any consumer complaints. This is probably why they are not BBB accredited. I have filed a police report here in Omaha, NE, contacted the Attorney General for my state, and have written to several newspapers hoping they will run an add warning others. I have plenty of ideas that will make up for my loss. I have started a "Boycott Villa group Facebook page and have poste a petition on the White House petition site. Let's organize against these tourism terrorists. jlara@mccneb.edu.
we just came back from Loreto and bought a time share with Villa Group, we don't know anything about this company
if anybody can share their personal experience experience with us
johngiancaspero@yahoo.com
As a Villa Group timeshare owner I asked how to make a reservation for my vacation week and the answer is: Timeshare reservations can be made directly with the Universal Vacation Club (UVC) by calling [protected] or online by visiting www.myuvc.com
I can call Contact Universal Vacation Club (UVC) at [protected] or the resort's direct telephone number to reconfirm my reservation for my timeshare/exchange stay at my resort.
I understand there may be "special" package rates for attending a timeshare presentation, I just need to Contact Universal Vacation Club (UVC) at [protected] for special timeshare package rates.
http://www.villagroupresorts.com/faq
xwvzvgr613
What exactly happens at a timeshare presentation by the Villa Group in Loreto?
We’ve all seen, and complained at times, the peddlers at the cozy Loreto airport wooing arriving gringos, promising all kinds of freebies. Free breakfast. Free souvenirs. And, of course, free tequila. All you need to do, they say, is hop on a bus at a pre-arranged time, and be whisked away to a special “presentation”.
All of us know instinctively there is some kind of pressure cooker sales process involved. In this case it’s a new condo development south of Loreto.
Loni mentioned earlier in a post, that we took one for the team. So what happened?
The Hook
As we strolled downtown Loreto, taking in the colors, the shops, the overall sleepiness, and as usual scoping out new places to eat or snack, a “tourist information” official approached us. I think it took us less time than a Loreto mosquito identifying it’s next victim, to realize, ok here we go, timeshare hustle!
This was a new location for the sales people to hang out though. Typically we’d see them across from Cafe Ole (close to the Villa Group sales office) or, as mentioned, at the airport. They caught us on Salvatierra after a light lunch down the street at La Cascada.
They were most gentlemanly this time, unlike the often hyper aggressive guys we’ve encountered annoying visitors. After all, these were “tourist information” officials, not commission-hungry reps.
The Pitch
So we entertained these 3 fine Villa Group chaps, seated at their table, map of Loreto behind, and important paperwork in front. We were interested to know more about the new development. Pricing? Location? Floor plans? Time frames? All the usual things we like to dig into when evaluating real estate.
The lines were the same: a lot of free stuff for an hour of your time.
When it seemed like we were going to walk away, out came the sweeteners. Tequila! Luxury spa!
No obligation. Just sign here for one of the presentations which is offered “every hour” for a group of people. Translation: we have a sales person hungry to talk just to you.
We agreed on a time to be picked up at the Inn at Loreto Bay. 9:30. They would arrive. Drive us to Hotel Posada de las Flores for a sunny rooftop breakfast, followed by a presentation at the sales center across the street.
The Pick-up
Just before 9:30, Loni and I headed curbside to the roundabout at the Inn at Loreto Bay. We were greeted on time by a standard taxi. We were the only two. We hopped in. The taxi proceeded to the Paseo, where a second van, with Villa Group logo and sales person in tow, followed us to Loreto.
This Bourne Ultimatum like arrangement must be a workaround for the ban the Inn has on Villa Group entering it’s grounds.
So we have two vans headed North to Loreto. A/C blasting fine. Stomachs anticipating the breakfast ahead.
The Butter-Up
We were dropped at the steps of the Flores Hotel. There we were greeted by a hostess seated at what appeared to be a makeshift table, again with lots of paperwork. She was to sign us in. We needed to show a credit card while covering all the digits for privacy save for the last 4. Sign more paperwork. Take receipts.
We meet our sales person, a pleasant enough woman who will escort us upstairs and join us for breakfast.
It turns out she lives in Loreto Bay, renting a Casa Chica. She speaks well of the development, but occasionally emphasizes the flexibility of a time share arrangement.
Another gorgeous, sunny day in Loreto. The sun streams across the rooftop, and I’m thankful that Loni again made me slather sunscreen all over myself. SPF 55.
The buffet style breakfast is very good. Nice European and Continental selections. I splurge. Two pastry, sugar-encrusted, twisted something-or-anothers. Something like a donut, muffin and cake combined to look like legitimate breakfast food. With Loni’s low-fat Fruit & Yogurt special a distant memory in San Jose, these pair wonderfully with the decent drip coffee.
Conversation with our sales person is going fine. She worked at Villa Group in other locations such as Cabo San Lucas. While we are talking she is taking notes, filling a form. Lead qualification continues.
We discover some math about the cost related to our lifetime vacationing habits. Hotels, airfare, meals, entertainment. It all adds up. Our long weekend drives up to Bodega Bay are looking like a real steal.
The Cooker
Now we’re seated in the small, wooden office of Villa Group. Breakfast was good, actually very good. We’re comfortable and on track. No surprises.
Photos of the upcoming resort, Villa del Palmar Loreto, line the walls. We’re offered sodas and water.
We learn about the development, the location, and the success of the developer. A draft term sheet sits in front of the rep and she attempts a close at seemingly predetermined points in the process.
The key highlights:
Timeshare condos are the only offering at this point, to be completed in 2009 (?)
Fully owned units may be offered in 2010
1 bedroom condo for 1 week/yr, about $30, 000
Special promotion if you sign, an extra week included, price also drops to about $25, 000
You can choose floating or fixed dates, the latter more expensive
There are two seasons: winter (peak) and non-winter
HOA for 1 bd about $750, 2 bd $800s per month
You can use the Villa Group swap program for properties in the network, across the world
The floor plans were nice, if not typical, with a lock-off option for the 2-bedroom providing rental flexibility.
Then it came time: are we interested? Now’s the time to buy! Sign here. We didn’t. And explained we preferred full ownership. At this point, the sales person called in her superior. A gregarious man walks in, firmly shakes are hands, and makes small talk. Then asked if we would buy if the price were $5, 000. Really?! Wow. Well not really… a standard sales technique to discover if price is the real objection. We danced a little, all in professional manner.
The Takeaway
When it was done, we shook hands, and parted ways with the information, thanking them for their time and vice-versa.
Villa Group delivered on their promises.
We never felt like they were wasting our time, considering we obliged to the process and were legitimately interested in what they had to tell us. The sales tactics were not overly aggressive or beyond standard real estate practices that we’ve seen many times over.
They provided all the information and answered all of our questions.
In the end, though, for us, a timeshare is not the right fit.
However, if you are interested in timeshares, I think the Villa Group is worth at least checking out. They do have a successful network of properties in Baja. You will be treated fairly through the pre-sales process, although we can’t vouch for actual purchase experience. Perhaps we’ll hear from folks over time that have purchased.
You all need to realize the main point here.You purchased in Mexico(a foreign country) and the government or courts there will do nothing to help you.They will however very nicely take more of your monies.To hire a lawyer is useless as there is not much they can do if you are past the 5 day time period.
In the case of the Villa Group it is controlled by an individual named Sahsha.He also has a timeshare resales business. The main goal of these sales people are to sell these timeshares no matter what they have to say.This is the same with most all timeshares in Mexico.The Villa group is probably among one of the worst offenders along with the Mayan resorts.It is correct that they Villa Group only owns 35% of said resorts and are usually grossly oversold.There are no controls to stop them from doing so.True also they will show you the Arco, but try going right after you purchase and get a reservation when you want it(impossible). Also be forewarned that they can not take another timeshare in trade(In the long run you will still have it and all its costs)The sales people at the Villa group are now trying to force, yes force their new point system on people at additional cost to you.If you don't then well you might and might not get a reservation in one of their resorts. A big scam that they also have going is their so called rental program.Do you really believe that they will rent your week out (and charge you to do so up front I might add).Wake up this is a business to make money.They are going to rent out their inventory first and yours last and will most likely tell you they could not rent it.
One of the biggest points to bring out about the Villa Group is the UVC offices are located in both San Diego and Los Angles California.Now the catch starts! If you decide to attempt to say legal action, stop paying them or whatever they can/will come after you like a fly on stink, but when you try to do something to them you must remember they are in Mexico and have offices in the US to collect their monies from all the scammed individuals.
Something you might want to check out.Look at your credit reports and you will find that UVC or whomever you are making your payments too(usually in San Diego) does not show up on it! Why I do not know, but it is a little strange don't you think.
A few thing to remember.
1)Not all timeshares are a ripoff there are good ones.
2)Buy in the US due to the fact they are lifetime ownership will-able and transferable.
3) If it sounds too good to be true it most likely is just BS to get you to buy.
4)If you do purchase(even in the US) read the contract carefully and make sure everything you were told is on it.If not and they wont put it in then tell them to "kiss your shinny behind and goodbye." I repeat if what you were told is not in the contract then do not sign.If you were told the membership includes certain things, but it need not be listed then read the new owners items before signing and if its not there then avoid being scammed and refuse to sign and "LEAVE."
We were lied to by Ryan Bilton at the Villa del Palmar in Cancun in November 2012. He sold us a membership by fraud. He represented to us that by buying a membership you also get unlimited getaways at any and all of the Leading Hotels of the Word by American Express. He stated to us on two occasions that The Villa Group had an arrangement with American Express whereby Villa Group members can stay at any of the hotels listed in that book for a very small fraction of the cost of a room. He gave as an example that we, or any member of our family, could stay at a 5-star hotel in NYC for $900 for a week. This is the only reason we bought membership at Villa Palmar. Has anyone had the same experience? Also, can someone tell me if in fact an Attorney General is investigating this issue and what is his name and contact information.
Vaggi
We have a Westin Timeshare in Princeville and use it all the time, no attitude, no hassle, extremely accommodating employees...I could go on and on. We went to Cabo on an all inclusive trip to Villa Del Arco, were very well taken care of at first. We were wooed into the timeshare presentation and the story goes on and sounds just like everyone else that has written on here. We even decided to put are 2 adult children on this with us so they could use with there friends, well my daughter is down in cabo at Villa Del Palmar (as you can never get into Del Arco) right now and being hassled every time she walks in the building and it is taking 15 minutes of the same BS to get to her room. My Husband has called the Villa Group to let them know this needs to stop, and of course they say"Oh yes, I understand and it will" We paid for our entire 2 units/1 week up front and pay our annual HOA dues and expect to be given what we were promised. We have exhausted all avenues to find out why we can Never use the Del Arco Property. I could bore you with the same struff that has been said over and over. Bottom line, where do I sign up for this class action lawsuit.
we bought our timeshare last november and am wondering if anyone has any suggestions on how to cancel it. we haven't used it & have not paid off the downpayment for that matter... any suggestions on how to get out of this...it's a total scam !
I am also trying to build a case on the Villa Group. I was scammed and i'm trying to get out of a contract. Oh and as soon as I tried to get out of the contract by typing a demand letter they sent me to collections and they want the lump some up front. I never used it and was never able to use it. It was always full, no rooms. They always lie to you when you call them. Even their own reps admit that they will lie to us because we signed the contract. stevesanchez213@yahoo.com...I am willing to help, or join in a class action law suit if possible.
I bought my times share in June 2005 for the Villa del Arco1 bedroom at $15, 000 summer months and $525 maintenance fees. I have not been able to redeem any of my weeks due to saying their rooms were sold out. I have been to Cabo San Lucas every year or every other year and had to pay and stay at other resorts.. I was told I was getting the construction price and when I came back to the states realized they have me owner at the Home Resort Villa Del Palmar. My current maintenance fees are $765. I have many years banked and deposits to exchange for a vacation through Interval world International and I have tried many times to get a resort here in the states and never once been able to exchange because they say its high season their a big scam too. If anyone knows of any class action suits or attorneys please fill me in..
jennie
I have had nothing but difficulties from the very beginning (August, 2012) and after reading all your complaints, I can relate. I am wondering if any of you have gotten anywhere with your complaints. I still can't get straight the UVC/Resortcom/and Villa Group dynamics. Every time I call I get different people and different answers. Any attorney info would be appreciated if you all have combined efforts. Way too much to type to tell all the issues of inept and misrepresentation from the sales rep in Mexico.
Dibav5@verizon.net
Wow. Wish I would have seen this page before ALSO BEING DUPPED! I purchased a studio time share and now feel like a complete idiot after reading this online forum. Feel free to contact me with any info of a lawsuit. Does anyone have ANYTHING positive to say about this company...Out of the thousands of people they sell to Im sure there has to be some positives to it...NO?
Nicolebissell@me.com
Villa Del Palmar Flamingos is a scam. We told Austin Dickerson we had no intentions to buy that we didn't like the west coast and, it was to expensive to fly and we would never be back.. Austin Dickerson promised us eight bonus weeks we could rent and make money every year. He even stated that the money made off the rental wouldn't require a 1099 form since it was in Mexico pure profit. The package he promised never came in the mail. We called and emailed him. He said no problem and referred us to Regal This cost us another 661.00 dollars for a agency to rent them for us. Nothing ever rented. LIES! We are now being harassed by Villa Del Palmar for non payment of maint. Fees and, late penalties. I have copies of the emails with Austin Dickerson and, have contacted an attorney. Hope he can get us out of this fraudulent situation. We never even stayed at their resort they lied and, we are not sending them any monies.
I am a member as well and they lied about many things. would love to be part of the class action suit. Please list the attorneys name and number if someone knows it.
The service at Villa Del Palmar is bad. Starting with Myra at reception. Poor customer service equals no time shares to be sold. I don't get this company. Strange. You provide poor service, bad food high prices and somehow this will make people want to buy a time share with you? No one ever said " Welcome to El Palmar" not even that. Adriana our concierge signed us up for the tour and Time share presentation upon arrival I wanted to check out the place. She told us that the Boat at Los Arcos was for kids to enjoy. Its a restaurant bar for adults. My brother in law bought a time share and he realized the next day that the sales people lied about a lot of things and the bad service and expensive and bad food at el palmar. when he tried to cancel Miguel and Carlos at the Villa Del Palmar said he needed to wait for another person who wasn't around until 3 days later. It was a terrible experience. I have been to Cabo several times and have never experienced the low quality of attention that you receive here at this hotel. The personell is poorly trained and very unattentive. The rugs in the rooms were very dirty and stinky. Have pictures by the way. The best part is its' location and kitchen. Thats it. Scary part is no "fire extinguishers in kitchen" and no smoke detectors. The exterior of the property is clean but this hotel is only sister to Los Arcos. Which today we were told that being able to use there facilities at los arcos means only there restaurants not the gym or pool. Gee thanks. We were asked to leave the pool. I spoke with Enrique at Los Arcos and I argued the point that this makes no sense. He was unreceptive and again I have never been asked to leave a hotel pool at the Pueblo Bonito Rose, Pueblo Bonito Blanco or the Sunset Beach you get to use all three pools. We all know that Time Share sales people are RATAS and snakes but these folks make you sick to your stomach. There tactics are awful. Bottom line my brother in law would have kept the time share but by the next day we all realized that we wanted to be a part of a great time share not a mediocore one. There is a definite disconnect at this hotel. There are no supervisors or managers that can help you around. There idea of an affordable massage is 250.00 per couple for 50 minutes. Im not sure who owns the Villa Group but they really are not a good time share to have. Even some of the staff sympathize with our complaints.
Hello to all interested parties.
We also were scammed by the Villa Group in December, 2011. We have contacted a lawyer, who agrees with our complaint. He is willing to pursue a class action against the Villa Group.
Please email me if you are still interested in keeping these timeshare bandits from plying their trade on other unsuspecting victims. I can be reached at Jeanne.jean39@aol.com
I look forward to hearing from you.
Jeanne
Hi - I am interested. Has any progress been made on this item?
I am interested in joining the class action suit.
Donna Futia
Coachdmf@aol.com
so does anyone have any good news in the end as to what has come from all of you who have been going through all of this? Did anyone get out of the contract? Has anyone had collector after them for not continuing to pay? My husband and I have recently been bamboozled also - they had us sign this wonderful thing we thought would be okay and they took $2600 down payment (originally wanting $3900). They processed supposedly our credit card when we signed - then when we returned to home a week later the charge still wasn't through on the card. A week exactly later the charge was posted on credit card. Now i am nervous because i do not want to give them more money after reading all of the issues here. Someone please respond so i know what to do. Thanks.
I have documentation to prove unethical business practices. I would be VERY interested in joining a lawsuit against Villa Del Palmar Cabo. I was billed 2x for our 2011 maintenance fees. We paid to avoid late penalties and now we are in communication in regards to a refund - they are not showing any overpayment even though we have 2 payment confirmation codes and bank statement showing money was paid to them. I have emails documenting all communication. It is a relatively small amount, but in the business world damages for this type of behavior is monumental.
Please feel free to email me at meredith@sof-tek.com
My husband and I had a very traumatic experience with the timeshare sales staff at Villa del Palmar in Cabo san Lucas in November, 2011. We approached the Canadian Consul's office and were told that we had five days to cancel our contract. Another horrible day of Villa del Arco meetings ensued and we were told that contract cancellation was impossible - they claimed they have an iron clad contract, obliging us to continue with what we agreed with when we were under extreme duress in the initial sales event.
We want to join in a class action law suit. Can Canadians join the American action or do we have to start our own? Are there other outraged Canadians who are willing to band together to end our contracts and hopefully get our money back?
We just purchased a time share and this included a trade in of our existing time share. We were advised that there would be some fee's for processing the trade-in The amount of the fee's were not disclosed at the time we signed the contract neither was a good faith esimate given . We have paid $1400 in fee's on a trade-in worth $6800 We are currently trying to get this reviewed by Villa. I guess buyer beware applies to Villa.
We purchased in December 2011 and we were told we are buying one week and we would receive a second week free, wrong! We failed to read the contract that states you have to pay a second maintenance fee to get the extra week, that's not free. The sales staff did not cover this during the sales process and we feel that we were mislead. I have been intouch by phone with Villa regarding improving the training of there sales team to improve disclosure, but I do not know if they are listening.
We wish we keeped our original timeshare with HGVC at least their staff are more profesional, well trained and helpful.
I am still waiting for Mr. Selden to contact me so that we can review his concerns during his visit with us. I can be reached at mservicecancun@villagroup.com or [protected].
As of this date, I have yet to hear from Mr. Selden and am hopeful he will contact us soon so that we can review the issues he had with his visit to the Cancun property. I can be contacted at mservicecancun@villagroup.com or at [protected].
Regarding the posting from Mr. Selden, I am Ms. Holden, the Developer Representative here in Cancun and am interested in hearing more about what concerns you had regarding your experience with us. If you wish to discuss this furhter I can be contacted at mservicecancun@villagroup.com or at [protected].
MY fiance Barb and I are in Cancun (Dec 2011). This was our first time to Cancun. We approached a desk in the airport that a sign listed as the place to stop for arranging local transportation. We paid for a round trip then were taken to a service desk where we were given the opportunity to experience a new resort in Cancun and at the same time offered local tours we wanted at a discount. The resort turned out to be Villa del Palmar - Cancun. I found out later through research that very little of what the salesman told me was true. Even at the end someone describing himself as the owner's representative asking us questions about the service provided turned out to be at best a developer's representative looking for one more chance to sell us even just "premier weeks" if he could. Our first tour was different that what was promised. "Ordinarily the Underwater Museum (4 statues, not 400) tours are $70 but we'll sell you one for $30." Turns out the $70 tour is on a very nice boat with full meal service and quality snorkeling gear while the $30 tour is on a small boat with a cup of cervichy for lunch. Today is our second tour booked through their agent. Hopefully this one is as claimed. What really annoys me about the Villa Group is how they infiltrate even the airports to pose as local hospitality when it is a sales pitch from beginning to end. I am so disgusted with all of this I never want to come back to Cancun.
Is there a class action suite in process? We were talked into buying what we thought and were told, was unlimited use of a specific ocean front unit or an available ocean front unit. With the option of adding a lockout unit for additional family members, We were told we could not use it more than 4 weeks at a time. Now we find after calling for reservations for this coming spring of 2012, over 60 days in advance, that we have a fixed week and that is it. Hope someone has a class action suite in process against the Villa Group and ResortCom International. Hope to have a response.
bruce@herbrick.com