When you hear about shared vacation property, it’s easy to think of timeshares, but a private residence club is in a league of its own. The key difference is in the ownership and the experience. Instead of simply buying time, you are purchasing a deeded share of a luxury property, making you a true owner. This model is built on exclusivity, with only a small number of owners per home, fostering a sense of community and pride. It combines the financial benefits of real estate with the white-glove service of a five-star resort, offering a sophisticated, hassle-free way to own a piece of paradise.
Key Takeaways Get Deeded Ownership, Not Just a Timeslot Share the Costs, Not the Headaches : Co-ownership splits the purchase price and annual expenses among a small group of owners. This makes owning a luxury home more affordable and your yearly costs predictable, covering everything from taxes to repairs without any surprise bills.Enjoy Hotel-Style Perks in Your Own Home : PRCs combine the privacy and comfort of a personal residence with the services of a luxury resort. With concierge support and high-end amenities, you can focus on making memories instead of managing logistics.What Is a Private Residence Club? If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a beautiful vacation home but felt overwhelmed by the cost and upkeep, a Private Residence Club (PRC) might be the perfect solution. Think of it as the best of both worlds: you get the pride and comfort of owning a luxury property combined with the white-glove service you’d expect from a five-star hotel. It’s a high-end approach to shared ownership that makes owning a piece of paradise more accessible and enjoyable.
PRCs are designed for people who want to create lasting memories in incredible destinations without the headaches of traditional homeownership. Instead of buying a whole property, you purchase a share that gives you a set amount of time there each year. This model not only splits the financial cost among a small group of owners but also shares the responsibilities of maintenance, cleaning, and management. It’s a smart, modern way to own a vacation home that truly feels like a getaway.
A Modern Approach to Owning a Vacation Home Private Residence Clubs offer a sophisticated alternative to buying a vacation home on your own. This model of co-ownership is centered on providing a seamless and luxurious experience. You get all the benefits of a beautifully appointed home—spacious living areas, full kitchens, and multiple bedrooms—along with the amenities and services of a high-end resort. Imagine arriving to a pristine home that’s ready for you, with concierge services available to handle everything from dinner reservations to stocking the fridge. It’s about maximizing your vacation time and minimizing the work that usually comes with property ownership. This approach lets you enjoy a luxury lifestyle without the full financial weight of a multi-million dollar home.
How Private Residence Clubs Work The structure of a PRC is straightforward. You purchase a deeded share of a property, which makes you a legal owner, not just a guest. This is a key detail that gives you a real stake in the home. Your ownership share grants you access to the residence for a certain number of weeks each year, which can range from two weeks to more than ten, depending on the club's structure. A rotating priority system ensures that all owners have a fair chance to book holidays and peak season dates over time. This flexible scheduling allows you to plan your getaways in advance while the property management team handles all the year-round maintenance, security, and upkeep.
How They Differ from Timeshares It’s easy to confuse PRCs with timeshares, but they are fundamentally different. The main distinction comes down to luxury, exclusivity, and ownership. PRCs are typically much more upscale, featuring larger, multi-bedroom homes in prime, sought-after destinations. While a timeshare might offer you the "right to use" a standard unit for a week, a PRC provides true, deeded ownership in a luxury property. With a PRC, you are one of a small number of owners, which fosters a greater sense of community and pride in the home. The level of personalized service and high-end amenities found in a PRC also far surpasses what you’d typically find in a timeshare development.
Breaking Down the Costs of a Private Residence Club One of the first questions that comes to mind when exploring vacation home ownership is, "What will this actually cost?" With a private residence club, the financial side is much more straightforward than owning a home on your own. The costs are transparent and shared among the owners, which helps make luxury properties more accessible. Let's walk through the typical expenses so you know exactly what to expect.
The Upfront Cost The upfront cost is the purchase price for your share of the property. This one-time payment secures your equity in the home. On average, a share in a private residence club costs around $234,000. However, this can vary quite a bit depending on the home's size, location, and amenities. You might find shares in smaller studios for about $163,500, while a piece of a larger four-bedroom home could be closer to $472,000 or more. This initial purchase is a real estate transaction, and many buyers explore financing options to make it happen.
Annual Dues and Fees After the initial purchase, you’ll pay annual dues. Think of these like HOA fees—they cover the professional management and year-round care of your vacation home. The average annual fee is about $1,975 per owner. For smaller properties, this might be as low as $925, while larger, more luxurious homes could have dues closer to $2,800. These fees are predictable and billed on a regular schedule, so you can easily budget for them without worrying about unexpected expenses popping up. This is a core part of the co-ownership model that keeps things simple for everyone.
Other Costs to Keep in Mind So, what do those annual dues actually cover? Pretty much everything. This is where the hassle-free aspect of co-ownership really shines. Your dues pay for all the operating expenses of the home, including property taxes, insurance, utilities, maintenance, and management salaries. They also contribute to a reserve fund for future capital repairs, like replacing the roof or updating appliances down the line. This means you won't get a surprise bill when something needs fixing. All the little details are handled for you, so you can just show up and relax.
Using Rental Income to Offset Costs Life gets busy, and you may not be able to use all of your scheduled time at the property every year. Many private residence clubs offer a great solution: the ability to rent out your unused weeks. This isn't about generating passive income, but rather a practical way to help offset your annual operating costs. The rental revenue you earn can go directly toward your dues, making ownership even more affordable. Managing your stays and rentals is typically handled through an owner portal, like the myFRAX Portal , which simplifies the whole process.
Why You'll Love Private Residence Club Ownership Owning a second home is about creating a space for relaxation and memories, not adding a second job to your list. Private residence clubs are designed around this idea. They combine the best parts of owning a beautiful vacation home—the comfort, the privacy, the sense of place—with the effortless service of a luxury hotel. Instead of spending your precious time off dealing with leaky faucets or finding a landscaper, you can step into a perfectly maintained home and start your vacation the moment you arrive. It’s a model that shifts the focus from the responsibilities of property ownership to the pure enjoyment of your time away.
Enjoy Professional Property Management Imagine arriving at your vacation home and everything is already perfect. The lawn is mowed, the pool is sparkling, and the house is spotless. With a private residence club, this is the standard. A dedicated professional management team handles all the upkeep, from routine maintenance and repairs to landscaping and security. You’ll never have to coordinate with contractors or worry about a pipe bursting while you’re away. This hassle-free approach means your vacation time is spent making memories with your family, not managing a property. It’s the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is always cared for, whether you’re there or not.
Access Luxury Amenities and Services Private residence clubs offer a level of luxury that can be hard to justify with a single-family vacation home. Because costs are shared among a small group of owners, you get access to premium amenities that feel like they belong at a five-star resort. Think state-of-the-art fitness centers, infinity pools, private docks, and beautifully appointed common areas. The homes themselves are often professionally designed and come with high-end appliances and furnishings. You can browse our current listings to see the caliber of homes and amenities available. It’s all about providing an exceptional experience that goes far beyond just a place to stay.
Get Personalized Concierge Support One of the standout features of private residence club living is the personalized concierge service. This is like having a personal assistant dedicated to making your stay as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Need your fridge stocked with your family’s favorite snacks before you arrive? Done. Want reservations at the best restaurant in town or recommendations for a family-friendly hike? Just ask. The concierge team can help plan activities, arrange transportation, and handle all the little details that make a trip special. This level of service, often managed through a portal like myFRAX , allows you to spend less time planning and more time connecting with the people you love.
Flexible Scheduling for Your Stays Forget the old, rigid timeshare model of being locked into the same week every year. Private residence clubs offer a modern, flexible scheduling system designed to fit your life. You can book stays throughout the year, from spontaneous weekend getaways to planned multi-week vacations, depending on availability. This flexibility allows you to travel when it makes sense for you, whether that’s during a school break, a holiday, or a quiet off-season period. The goal is to make your vacation home accessible when you want to use it, giving you the freedom to create a travel calendar that works for your family’s unique rhythm.
The Option to Visit Multiple Properties While you own a share in a specific property, many private residence clubs offer the chance to explore other homes within their portfolio. This gives you the wonderful opportunity to experience different destinations without the commitment of buying property in each one. You could be skiing in the mountains one year and relaxing by a lake the next. This variety keeps your vacations fresh and exciting, allowing you to create diverse memories in new settings. It’s like having a key to a collection of incredible vacation homes , giving you the perfect home base for whatever adventure you have in mind.
How to Choose the Right Private Residence Club Finding the right private residence club is a lot like finding the perfect home—it needs to feel right for you and your family. With so many options out there, it helps to know what to look for. Thinking through a few key areas will help you find a club that fits your vacation style and sets you up for years of happy memories. It’s about matching the properties, policies, and people to what you truly want out of a vacation home.
Consider the Location and Properties First things first: where do you want to be? Think about a destination your family will love returning to. It’s wise to pick a popular spot that’s likely to remain a desirable place to visit for years to come. Take a look at the club’s portfolio of listings and picture yourself there. Do the homes have the space and style you’re looking for? Pay attention to the quality of the finishes, the layout, and the overall feel of the properties. You’re not just buying time; you’re buying into a specific home and location, so make sure it’s one that truly excites you.
Understand the Ownership Structure Not all clubs are created equal, and how you own your share matters. Most private residence clubs offer deeded, fractional ownership, which means you own a real asset, not just a block of time. This approach combines the feeling of owning a home with the services of a five-star hotel. It’s important to get clear on the details of the co-ownership agreement. How many owners are there per property? What are your rights and responsibilities? Understanding this from the start ensures there are no surprises and that you’re comfortable with the ownership model before you commit.
Look into the Management Company's Reputation The promise of a private residence club is a hassle-free vacation experience, and the management company is the one that makes it happen. A professional company manages everything from housekeeping and maintenance to landscaping and bill payments. Do your homework on who is running the show. Look for a company with a strong track record of happy owners and well-maintained properties. A reputable manager means you can simply show up and relax, knowing that every detail is being handled for you. This peace of mind is one of the biggest perks of club ownership.
Review the Scheduling System How you book your stays is a critical piece of the puzzle. Private residence clubs typically allow owners to use the home for several weeks a year, but the reservation process can vary. Some use a rotating priority system, while others offer more flexible, space-available booking. Think about your family’s vacation style. Do you plan your trips a year in advance, or are you more spontaneous? A transparent and easy-to-use platform like the myFRAX Portal can make all the difference. Make sure the club’s system aligns with how you like to travel.
Ask About Exchange Programs While you’ll have a home base you love, many clubs offer the chance to see the world. Exchange programs allow owners to trade their vacation time for stays at other luxury properties in different locations. This is a fantastic perk if you enjoy variety in your travels. Ask if the club is part of a larger exchange network, like ThirdHome or Elite Alliance, and find out how the process works. It can add a whole new layer of adventure to your ownership, giving you access to a curated collection of incredible homes beyond your own.
More Than a Home: Lifestyle and Community Owning a vacation home is about more than just having a place to stay. It’s about creating a backdrop for your life’s best moments—the annual family ski trips, the lazy summer afternoons by the lake, the spontaneous weekend getaways. It’s a place where traditions are born and memories are made. This is the true value of a second home, and it’s at the heart of the co-ownership experience.
When you co-own a home , you’re not just buying a fraction of a property; you’re investing in a lifestyle. It’s a model designed to give you all the joys of a vacation home with none of the typical headaches. Forget spending your precious time off fixing a leaky faucet or mowing the lawn. Instead, you can focus entirely on relaxing and connecting with the people you love. It’s about having a beautiful, familiar place to return to, year after year, that truly feels like your own. Beyond the four walls of the house, you also become part of a community of people who appreciate the same things you do. This shared ownership fosters a unique environment where everyone is invested in creating a wonderful retreat. It’s the perfect blend of private ownership and shared responsibility, giving you the freedom to simply show up and enjoy.
Making Memories: Family-Friendly Features One of the best parts of co-ownership is having a consistent, beautiful space for your family to gather. The flexible scheduling allows you to plan for everything from a few weeks in the summer to a long holiday weekend. This means you can establish traditions and watch them grow over the years. Imagine your kids looking forward to that annual trip to your mountain cabin or beach house—a place filled with familiar comforts and happy memories. You can explore our current listings to see the kinds of family-friendly homes that are waiting for you to make your own.
Connecting with Other Owners When you become a co-owner, you join a small group of people who love the same destination as much as you do. This creates an immediate sense of community. You’re all invested in maintaining a beautiful property and making the most of your time there. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and families, sharing tips on the best local restaurants or hiking trails. This shared experience often leads to new friendships, adding another rich layer to your ownership. It’s more than a financial arrangement; it’s a community built around a shared passion for travel and relaxation.
Consistently High-Quality Properties We’ve all experienced the uncertainty of vacation rentals, where the photos don’t always match reality. Co-ownership eliminates that gamble. Every home is carefully selected for its prime location, beautiful design, and high-end finishes. You can rest easy knowing that every time you arrive, you’ll find a stunning, impeccably maintained property waiting for you. This consistency provides peace of mind and allows you to start your vacation the moment you walk through the door. It’s the comfort of a personal home combined with the quality of a luxury retreat.
Hotel-Style Hospitality Services True relaxation means letting someone else handle the details. With co-ownership, you get the perks of hotel-style service in the comfort of your own home. A dedicated concierge team can take care of everything from stocking the kitchen with your favorite groceries before you arrive to booking dinner reservations or planning local activities. Through the myFRAX Portal , you can manage your stays and service requests with ease. This level of personalized support ensures your vacation time is spent on what truly matters: enjoying your home and the company you’re with.
Making the Most of Your Ownership Once you’ve found your perfect vacation home, the real fun begins. Getting the most out of your co-ownership is all about understanding how it works and planning ahead. With a little know-how, you can make sure every stay is seamless and the property truly feels like your own personal retreat.
Plan Your Reservations Like a Pro The key to maximizing your vacation time is mastering the scheduling system. It’s a flexible system ensuring every owner gets a chance to enjoy the property during peak seasons. You can book "Planned Stays" well in advance for can't-miss holidays, or use "Space Available" bookings for more spontaneous trips. For a last-minute escape, you can often book short-notice stays. Plan your must-have dates early and watch the calendar for openings through the myFRAX Portal .
Know the Club's Policies Before your first stay, get familiar with the owner policies. These rules ensure a great experience for everyone, covering things like guests and pets. It's also smart to understand how annual fees are managed and what they cover, so there are no surprises. You can also rent out your unused time to help offset operating costs, giving you more flexibility. Find answers to most questions on our FAQ page .
Manage Your Ongoing Costs One of the best parts of co-ownership is sharing the expenses. Your annual fees cover everything from property taxes and insurance to landscaping and utilities. This means you don't have to worry about managing bills or finding a plumber—it’s all handled for you. These fees also contribute to a reserve fund for future repairs. This shared co-ownership model makes affording a luxury property much more manageable, letting you focus on enjoying your time there.
Plan for Long-Term Enjoyment Viewing your property as a lifestyle choice is the best way to appreciate its value. This is your family’s spot for making memories and reconnecting year after year. Think about how your vacation needs might change. Will you want longer stays or prefer short getaways? Understanding the flexibility of your ownership helps you adapt it to your life for years to come. Start dreaming about your future getaways by exploring our current listings and imagining the memories you'll create.
Clearing Up Common Misconceptions The idea of co-owning a vacation home is exciting, but since it’s a newer approach, it’s natural to have questions. There’s a lot of information out there, and it can be tough to sort through it all. Let’s clear the air and address some of the most common myths and questions about this modern way to own a second home. Getting the facts straight will help you decide if this path is the right one for you and your family.
Setting Realistic Expectations It’s important to see co-ownership for what it is: a lifestyle choice, not a get-rich-quick scheme. The goal is to have a beautiful place to make memories, not to flip a property for a profit. The price you pay for your share covers the real estate itself, plus the costs of marketing and managing the entire process to make it seamless for you. Think of it as investing in years of future joy, relaxation, and quality time with loved ones in a stunning home you might not have bought otherwise. It’s about the experience, first and foremost.
How Flexible Is It, Really? One of the biggest questions people have is about scheduling. Will you actually get to use your home when you want to? The answer is yes, thanks to a smart and equitable system. Most co-ownership models use a rotating reservation system that gives every owner a fair shot at peak season dates. You can typically book key holidays or summer breaks well in advance. For more spontaneous trips, you can book stays when the home is available. This flexibility allows you to plan ahead while also leaving room for last-minute getaways, all managed easily through an owner portal like the myFRAX Portal .
Understanding the Full Cost Let’s talk numbers. The beauty of co-ownership is its financial transparency. You have the upfront cost to purchase your share of the home, which is a fraction of the property's total value. Then, there are annual dues. These fees are comprehensive and cover pretty much everything needed to run the home—property management, maintenance, landscaping, utilities, insurance, and even a reserve fund for future repairs like a new roof. This approach eliminates the surprise expenses and headaches that often come with whole home ownership. You get a clear picture of your yearly costs, making it simple to budget for your vacation lifestyle.
What You Actually Own This isn't a timeshare or a vacation club membership; you are buying real estate. With co-ownership, you get a deeded interest in the property. This means you own a tangible asset, just like you would with a traditional home. Your share is yours to sell, and you can even pass it down to your children. Because you have true ownership, you may also be able to enjoy the same tax benefits as you would with any second home, such as deducting mortgage interest. You’re not just buying time at a property—you’re buying a piece of the property itself, which you can see in our current listings .
Related Articles Frequently Asked Questions Is this just a fancy timeshare? Not at all. The biggest difference is that you are buying a real, deeded share of the property, not just the right to use it for a week. You become a true owner with equity in the home. This model also involves a much smaller, more exclusive group of owners for a single luxury property, which creates a stronger sense of community and pride in the home.
What happens if I want to sell my share in the future? Since you have deeded ownership , your share is a real estate asset that you can sell at any time. You can list it on the open market, just as you would with a traditional home. This gives you the flexibility and control that comes with owning a tangible piece of property.
Am I responsible for maintenance or repairs if something breaks? Absolutely not. This is one of the best parts of the co-ownership lifestyle. Your annual dues cover all professional property management, which includes everything from routine upkeep and landscaping to unexpected repairs. If a pipe bursts or an appliance stops working, the management company handles it all, so you can spend your vacation time actually relaxing.
How does scheduling work? Will I ever get to use the home for a major holiday? The scheduling system is designed to be fair and flexible for all owners. It typically uses a rotating priority system, which ensures that everyone gets a chance to book popular holidays and peak season dates over time. You can also book shorter, more spontaneous trips when the home is available, giving you a great mix of planned vacations and last-minute getaways.
What do my annual dues actually cover? Think of your annual dues as a comprehensive, predictable way to cover all the operating costs of the home. This single fee includes property taxes, insurance, utilities, professional management, housekeeping, and all interior and exterior maintenance. It also contributes to a reserve fund for larger future projects, so you’ll never be hit with a surprise assessment.
