Long time lurker, first time poster.
Saw the 2012 thread on this subject but it hadn't been updated for 2013. Thought I'd post the new link for those who are interested.

Points required to buy back Platinum status - 40,000
Points required to buy back Gold status - 25,000
Points required to buy back Silver status - 7,500

Got this offer via email:
http://www.marriott.com/marriott/elitebuyback.mi

If you didn't already have points they can be purchased @ $12.50 per thousand.
https://buy.points.com/PointsPartner...mp;product=BUY


My dilemma is this: I only plan to stay at Marriott in 2013 to take advantage of their MegaBonus Promotions. I still have six free nights from Fall/Winter that haven't been used yet, and could still earn up to nine more this year. (I know of two nearby FS Marriotts often >$50/weekend night)

I already have 300,000+ Marriott points banked that don't expire, so I can easily afford to spend 40,000 (= 2 nights of stays) to keep the status. And I've had about 70% success rate sweet talking my way to available free suite upgrades even using the free night certificates. Free internet/ breakfast/ lounge access are nice Platinum perks, But is getting more 10-15 nights of them REALLY worth spending 40,000 points???