The Manhattan Club Timeshare: Is It Time to Make an Exit?

Timeshares are often marketed as an attractive way to secure vacation accommodations in desirable locations. The Manhattan Club, located at 200 West 56th Street in Midtown Manhattan, offers a compelling proposition with its prime location, luxury suites, and promised flexibility in booking. However, many owners have found the experience to be far from what was initially presented, leading to frustration and regret.

A Prime Location With Persistent Challenges

Situated in one of New York City’s most sought-after areas, The Manhattan Club promotes itself as a premier vacation ownership opportunity. While the location itself is undeniably valuable, owners have reported consistent difficulties in securing reservations, despite assurances of availability. This disconnect between marketing promises and reality has led many to question the true value of their investment.

A History of Legal Issues and Customer Complaints

In 2017, after a thorough three-year investigation, the New York Attorney General’s office determined that The Manhattan Club had misled owners regarding its reservation process, resale potential, and overall offering plan. As a result, the developers agreed to a $6.5 million settlement to compensate defrauded owners.

Despite this legal action, complaints continued. In 2020, more than 100 timeshare owners filed a lawsuit alleging violations of the federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, accusing the developers—along with its successor, Bluegreen Vacations Limited, Inc.—of engaging in deceptive and unethical business practices. These ongoing legal disputes indicate that the underlying issues remain unresolved.

Common Concerns Among Owners

High-Pressure Sales Tactics

Many individuals who attended sales presentations for The Manhattan Club describe an experience that was far more aggressive than anticipated. Reports suggest that some presentations lasted for several hours, applying significant pressure on attendees to commit to a purchase. Many buyers later expressed regret, realizing that the terms were not as favorable as initially suggested.

Unexpected and Escalating Fees

A common complaint among timeshare owners at The Manhattan Club is the prevalence of hidden fees and rising maintenance costs. Some owners report being charged nearly $50 per day for amenities, including fees applied even after their departure. Additionally, the quality of amenities does not always reflect the cost, leading to dissatisfaction among owners who feel they are paying for services that are either subpar or unavailable.

Booking Difficulties and Limited Availability

One of the key selling points of any timeshare is the ability to reserve vacation stays with ease. However, many owners at The Manhattan Club have experienced significant difficulties in securing reservations, even when attempting to book well in advance. This lack of availability contradicts the flexible scheduling that was initially promised, creating frustration among those who are unable to utilize their investment as intended.

Property Maintenance and Upkeep Issues

Given the high maintenance fees associated with ownership, one would expect The Manhattan Club to maintain top-tier standards. However, many owners have reported issues with deteriorating furniture, outdated decor, and general maintenance neglect. These concerns further contribute to the dissatisfaction of individuals who initially believed they were investing in a well-maintained, luxury property.

Considering a Timeshare Exit Strategy

For owners who feel trapped in their timeshare agreement, seeking assistance from a reputable timeshare exit company may be a viable solution. These companies specialize in helping individuals legally terminate their contracts, either through negotiations with the resort or by identifying legal avenues to exit the agreement.

It is important, however, to thoroughly research any exit company before engaging their services. Some firms operate with questionable business practices, charging large upfront fees without delivering results. Owners should prioritize working with companies that have a proven track record, positive client testimonials, and a clear process for achieving contract termination.

Final Thoughts

While The Manhattan Club presents itself as an exclusive and high-end vacation ownership opportunity, numerous legal challenges, unresolved customer complaints, and ongoing booking frustrations paint a different picture. If you are an owner struggling with reservation issues, increasing fees, or general dissatisfaction, exploring your options for exiting the contract may be a worthwhile consideration.