Being quite new to the timeshare industry you make mistakes and one was in the belief that Alberto Garcia of Mindtimeshare was as independent as we are.
I learnt of his connection with the RDO by complete chance and I have to say I slumped in my seat upset for the delusion I gave myself.
People have asked why I do not write about the RDO directly and challenge them. My answer is exactly the same; they are our natural adversaries in matters of timeshare. That said if I had a resort then I would naturally want an institution like the RDO to represent me and support my interests. Therefore the RDO are doing exactly what is on the tin, they represent resorts and limit the costs of industry mistakes by setting up front line defence streams and dams.
In my opinion they are the super power in this industry and we are just Belgium.
What I do find utterly remarkable is that the RDO would put a policeman in charge of Mindtimeshare yet other RDO set ups have less credentials.
I have never met Alberto Garcia and can only judge him by what he produces. He does give new companies in the industry a baptism by fire. That said it is his job to do so. It could be classed as ‘tough love’ and clearly it works. If you intend to perpetrate a wilful wrong act and you are faced with Mr Garcia; you will think twice. Even if you want to run a good and honest brokerage, if you step out of line every company and firm know that Mr Garcia will berate you leaving you bereft of industry friends.
I have to admit if I get an enquiry I look on his website, so in my mind how could I knock what he produces or disassociate myself from the plethora of his knowledge.
I have asked Alberto Garcia why he does not investigate resorts and he simply said “that’s not my job”. Which when you look on his site is exactly right.
Is what he and mindtimeshare do a benefit to consumers?
I would say yes and think it is a great reference point for me.
The problem I have is, it is entirely supported by the RDO who I understand are linked to TATOC, KwikChex and others.
I therefore have no issue with the RDO over Mindtimeshare, as in truth I wholeheartedly believe that if I were to choose someone to undertake the tasks which Mindtimeshare undertake; I could not pick a better person than Alberto Garcia to do it.
Recalling when I first went into the business world, I know that we all have a baptism of fire, everyone hates it but for some it makes you strong. This being that case the work Mr Garcia does is of much benefit.
This may not sit well with some, but I would challenge you to find differently.
The mandate of Mindtimeshare is not known to me therefore I have to use my own senses on which issues Mr Garcia is permitted to investigate. This being a reality when an interested party is funding your operation I have to ask who has editorial control and who edits the release of this information; as if that is controlled then I would have an issue. That is the old age primmer (adage) of ‘you can beat up on my enemy but not my friend’. I do believe if Mr Garcia was funded by the RDO yet retained full control, the benefit would be much more wholesome.
Is therefore Mindshare worth having, knowing that RDO have an influence in Mindtimeshare. That has to be a very big yes in my book!
For more information regarding this article or assistance in any other timeshare related issues please contact the TCA on 01908 881058 or email: info@TimeshareConsumerAssociation.org.uk