In my experience, the only downsides I have had involved not being able to use my timeshare when I wanted and not having planned far enough ahead for trying an exchange. Situations easily remedied by a little forethought on my part. I have learned to plan my vacations well enough in advance to take advantage of using my timeshare just how I want. Once, I even just rented out my week and it more than covered my maintenance fees. Count me in as one happy timeshare owner!