At first glance, the Timeshare Consumer Protection Center website looks professional and legitimate—and that may be because it is.

The Timeshare Consumer Protection Center (TCPC) is a relatively new resource designed to help owners understand their options for exiting a timeshare while warning them about the growing number of scams in this field. The site features articles about resale, rental, developer-assisted exits, and common fraud tactics. It also provides a contact form where owners can submit their timeshare details and request guidance—all presented as a free service with no obvious advertising or upfront payment.

However, understanding who’s behind TCPC and how it operates is essential before relying entirely on its advice. While the website provides helpful information, its close ties to industry organizations influence its tone and the type of solutions it promotes.

What the Timeshare Consumer Protection Center Is

TCPC serves as an educational resource that helps consumers understand exit processes and avoid fraudulent offers. It explains the basics of selling, donating, or surrendering a timeshare and emphasizes consumer protection. The concept itself is useful, particularly in a market flooded with deceptive exit companies.

That said, TCPC is not a fully independent watchdog. It is either managed by or closely associated with the American Resort Development Association (ARDA) and its owner-advocacy division, ARDA-ROC. These organizations represent the interests of the vacation ownership industry, including developers and exchange companies. Their involvement brings both advantages and drawbacks.

On the positive side, TCPC can provide accurate information, verified contacts, and safe exit methods officially recognized by developers. However, its connection to ARDA means it rarely criticizes the structural issues in the timeshare industry or discusses how misleading sales practices continue to affect owners. In other words, TCPC is informative — but not impartial.

What You’ll Find on the TCPC Website

The site contains straightforward explanations of several exit options: resale listings, rental programs, donation opportunities, and developer-assisted processes. Many of these guides can help owners avoid being scammed by third-party companies demanding large upfront fees. TCPC also offers checklists on spotting fraudulent activity and general recommendations for verifying companies before signing anything.

Still, owners should keep a few things in mind. The recommended pathways usually involve working directly with the developer or with companies approved by them, which may not work for everyone. For example, older contracts or resorts with strict resale rules might not have an easy way out. The tone of the articles also tends to downplay broader criticisms of the timeshare model — something to expect given its industry connections.

Understanding ARDA, ARDA‑ROC, and Their Role

ARDA (American Resort Development Association), the main trade association for the vacation ownership industry, and ARDA‑ROC (ROC stands for Resort Owners Coalition), its owner coalition, also operate the Coalition for Responsible Exit through ResponsibleExit.com. Their goal is to prevent owners from falling victim to fraudulent exit services. The Coalition provides vetted developer programs, step-by-step guides, and warnings about scams.

Because these initiatives are industry-backed, they focus heavily on developer-approved solutions rather than independent legal or resale services. They are excellent for identifying scams and understanding what legitimate programs exist, but they won’t necessarily challenge the timeshare system itself or address all the hardships faced by owners locked into disadvantageous contracts.

How to Use TCPC Wisely

The Timeshare Consumer Protection Center should be treated as a starting point, not a full solution. Its information is reliable when it comes to avoiding scams and finding official channels, but every owner’s case is unique. Use TCPC to educate yourself on legitimate processes, gather contact details for your developer, and understand your legal position.

Before engaging any exit company, always avoid upfront payments and make sure any agreement is clear, verifiable, and documented in writing. Keep copies of all your correspondence, contracts, and receipts. If the process becomes complicated or if you’re dealing with high-pressure tactics, consult a consumer attorney for tailored advice.

Final Thoughts

The Timeshare Consumer Protection Center fills an important gap for owners who need guidance and protection from scams. It’s easy to navigate and practical for understanding the basics of the exit process. Still, because of its ties to ARDA and the timeshare industry, readers should approach its recommendations with context and caution. It’s best used alongside other independent resources and, when necessary, professional legal advice.

In short, TCPC is a good place to begin your research — a map of what’s possible and what’s risky — but not the last word on how to exit your timeshare responsibly.