When timeshare owners begin the journey of trying to exit their contract, one of the first places they look for validation is the Better Business Bureau (BBB). It has been a standard of trust for decades, but in the specific niche of timeshare cancellation, the story is more complex.
While a rating is a useful data point, relying solely on a letter grade can leave you vulnerable. The accreditation process is not always transparent, and understanding how these ratings are calculated is essential for your protection.
The "Pay to Play" Component
Many consumers are unaware that BBB accreditation is a paid membership. Businesses pay annual dues to the Bureau for the right to display the accreditation seal. While this doesn't guarantee an A+ rating, it creates a relationship between the bureau and the business that isn't purely based on consumer satisfaction.
In the timeshare exit industry, where fees can be substantial, maintaining this paid status is a marketing necessity for many firms, regardless of their actual success rate in cancelling contracts.
Industry Reality
"An A+ rating often reflects how well a company responds to complaints, not necessarily that they don't have complaints to begin with."
How Ratings Are Actually Calculated
The BBB algorithm is complex. A company can maintain a high rating simply by responding to complaints promptly, even if the resolution wasn't what the customer hoped for. In the exit industry, a "response" might just be a legal letter stating the process is ongoing.
This creates a skewed perception where activity is mistaken for efficacy. Owners see an A+ and assume it means a 100% success rate, when it often just means the company has a dedicated team for replying to dissatisfied customers.
What Your Advisor May Not Know
Before hiring an exit firm based solely on a badge, consider these factors:
-
Accreditation is voluntary and requires a significant annual fee to maintain.
-
Resolution definitions vary; closing a complaint doesn't always mean the customer got their money back.
-
Time lag exists between a scam operation starting and the rating dropping.
Critical Warning
Beware of companies that use their BBB logo as their primary marketing tool while hiding their actual legal strategy or lack thereof. If the sales pitch relies entirely on "We are A+ rated," dig deeper.
Consumer Reports
Complaints Filed Annually
Customer Satisfaction
Market Reality
Thousands unresolved
Varies by provider
The Bridge Transfers Difference
Instead of relying on logos, look for transparency in the process. A reputable transfer company should explain exactly how the transfer works, who handles the closing, and what guarantees are in place.
We believe in results over ratings. Our focus is on the legal and correct transfer of title, ensuring you are permanently free from the timeshare obligation, rather than just managing complaints about the process.
