Quote:
Originally Posted by RedMan
I guess this would be true if the increases to Sunterra owners were used to bring those resorts up to par.
Although BG may do a fairly good job at maintaining their resorts, I would have to say that a couple of the units I've stayed in needed some facelifts. This however does not mean that I would expect to be vaulted to the level of Mariott ownership. I really wouldn't want that. I like "clean, dry, and servicable" but I don't require 5 star quality. This is what is attractive to me about Bluegreen. We spend most of our time outside of the unit so as long as it is roomy and comfortable we are happy. I'm content with maintaining rather than being forced to upgrade.
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The last posts I've seen have indicated that some resorts are being brought up to par. There is one in Arizona (sedona I believe) where the pool had not been put in correctly and was beyond repair. DRI has torn it out and replaced it correctly. The pools/hot tubs at Powhatan and Greensprings have been repaired and are working correctly if I understand right. All bedding and linen is being replaced. The last report I read about refurbishing of units at Powhatan had a definate WOW factor. Curtains are being added replacing the elcheapo blinds that Sunterra loved.
There are changes taking place but, one has to put a log in the fireplace before it puts out heat. In this case I believe DRI started the process before owners had to toss in the logs (increased fee's) but, DRI had probably already done the calculations and was reasonably assured they'd be recieving that $$.
Now the trick will be in maintaining what they've started. Through last year Polo Towers was still only collecting $48 or so for the reserve fund on a 2 bedroom unit. IMO that is far to low and was reflected in that big SA owners had to pay a couple of years ago. I would like to see better future planning from DRI. Planning that includes unit refurbishment on a 10 year cycle. Plan now, save now so we don't have to pay big bucks laters is what I hope to see started with next years MF's. Unfortunately, that would mean a 10% increase in MF's just for the reserve alone with Polo Towers. If they start putting serious money into the reserve AND maintain the property on a schedule without allowing it to decline and then hitting owners with another SA, I can live with the increase. If they don't start collecting a reasonable amount for the SA, then I'll remain somewhat doubtful about the future.
