Originally Posted by jerseyfinn
frisbeeace,
Yes, if you purchased TS entirely because of the MR points, then devaluation is understandably a big concern to you.
But as I note, the majority of MVCI folks do not purchase solely because of the points. Timeshare is not real estate, it's destination travel. Likewise the MR point incentives offered with MVCI is not an ends of ownership, but rather an additional means to serve as a tool for adjunct travel options in addition to the usual prerogatives of timeshare ownership ( occupancy or trades ).
I don't know about MR, but I do know that Starwood owners (my brother included) place a HIGH value on being able to convert TS to SPG points. And most are not too happy when they learn their 50K points will no longer buy 6 nights in Hawaii (or Venice, or wherever) because the properties have all been moved to Cat. 5, which requires more points. IMO this is a sophisticated fraud, and I have referred it to several class action lawyers (though I would never buy one myself).
Contrary to your statement, most timeshare IS real estate, you get a deed which provides you 1/52 ownership of an actual unit that you can bequeath to your heirs, etc. There are some vacation ownership programs which don't provide a deed - an even bigger ripoff as we can see how easily rates, points and categories are manipulated.
If you want a real good vacation investment, take your 25K and buy a vacation home in a popular area, then rent or do vacation exchanges with other owners. At the end of 20 years, your property will be worth double, you won't have to share the other 51 weeks nor worry about devaluation of your points.