What Is Timeshare (Devremülk), and How Does It Differ from Condominium Ownership?

The concept of "timeshare" (devremülk), often encountered in holiday resorts, is confused by many with normal apartment ownership. Questions such as "is timeshare real ownership", "can I use it whenever I want" and "do I pay dues" are common. Timeshare is a distinct type of right, different from condominium ownership. In this article we explain the legal nature of timeshare and how it differs from normal ownership.

What is timeshare (devremülk)?

Timeshare is an easement right based on the use, on a rotating basis and in specific periods, of an immovable (usually a holiday residence). That is, a structure or an independent unit is divided into specific weeks of the year and each right holder uses the immovable during their own period. For example, a person may have the right to use the first two weeks of July each year.

The timeshare right is registered in the land registry and can be transferred and pass by inheritance. It is therefore secure, but its nature differs from ordinary apartment ownership.

Main differences from condominium ownership

• Duration of use: Under condominium ownership, the owner uses the unit as they wish all year round. Under timeshare, the right to use exists only during the holder's own period (specific weeks).
• Nature of the right: Condominium ownership is a full ownership right; timeshare is an easement right based on periodic use.
• Sharing: In timeshare, several right holders use the same immovable during different periods.
• Purpose: Timeshare is usually created for holiday and periodic accommodation purposes.

Dues and common expenses in timeshare

Timeshare holders, just like unit owners, participate in the common expenses of the facility. Expenses for common services such as maintenance, cleaning, security and pool are shared among the right holders. Even if the timeshare holder uses the immovable only during a specific period of the year, they are liable for their share of common expenses. The claim "I use it only for two weeks" does not remove the common expense obligation.

Points to consider when buying a timeshare

The most important point in buying a timeshare is whether the right is registered in the land registry. Sales of a mere contractual "holiday right" without registration carry serious risks. In addition, the period of use must be clearly determined, the common expense obligation must be known in advance and the facility must actually exist and be operating. Under the right conditions, timeshare is a safe right; but unclear contracts can cause grievances.

Summary: Timeshare is an easement right registered in the land registry, based on the rotating use of an immovable during specific periods. Its differences from condominium ownership are: periodic rather than year-round use, and a periodic right rather than full ownership. Timeshare holders also participate in common expenses. Registration of the right in the land registry is critical at purchase. For condominium ownership and types of ownership, see our blog guides, and keep your dues tracking in order with our digital tools.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is timeshare real ownership?
Timeshare is not full ownership but an easement right registered in the land registry and based on the use of the immovable during specific periods. It can be transferred and passes by inheritance.

I only use my own period — do I pay dues?
Yes. Even though the timeshare holder uses the immovable only during a specific period of the year, they are liable for the common expense share.

What should I look out for when buying a timeshare?
Most importantly, the right must be registered in the land registry. Purely contractual sales without registration are risky; the period of use and the common expense obligation must be clear.

Related content

In connection with this topic, our articles on how a management plan is amended and how many votes are required, voting rights in the assembly of unit owners and the common expense action and collection methods cover the subject in more detail.

This content is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For your specific situation, please consult a lawyer.