KJZZ Phoenix recently reported that the U.S. Department of Justice indicted a senior cartel member accused of running a massive Mexican timeshare fraud scheme.
According to prosecutors, Julio César Montero Pinzón and his half-sister, Griselda Margarita Arredondo Pinzón, operated call centers in Mexico under the Jalisco Nueva Generación cartel. These call centers targeted Americans who wanted to sell timeshare properties. Victims were told they needed to pay fake fees or taxes before their sale could go through.
How the Timeshare Resale Scam Worked
Here’s the trick: criminals posed as brokers, escrow agents, or even Mexican tax officials. They created fake documents and pressured owners to wire money. Many timeshare owners believed this was part of the timeshare resale market process, especially if they were unfamiliar with Mexican laws.
International real estate lawyer Carlos Sugich, based in Phoenix and Mexico, explained it simply:
“If you’re selling a timeshare, you’re the seller. Sellers do not wire funds. Buyers wire funds.”
Unfortunately, some victims only realized they’d been scammed after sending thousands of dollars overseas. By then, recovering the money was nearly impossible.
Why Mexican Timeshare Resale Scams Are Increasing
Sugich also warned that cartels are becoming more sophisticated. With AI tools, fraudsters can now create convincing emails, documents, and even impersonations of legitimate firms. These schemes are harder to detect, making timeshare owners more vulnerable than ever.
He emphasized that anyone trying to sell timeshare property—especially a Mexican timeshare—should never send upfront money. Instead, consult legal counsel or a trusted professional before transferring funds.
Key Takeaways for Timeshare Owners
Never wire money upfront. In the timeshare resale market, legitimate buyers pay the seller—not the other way around.
Verify companies. Scammers often use the names of real brokers or escrow firms. Always confirm directly with the company.
Understand Mexican law. Fraudsters exploit confusion about taxes and fees tied to mexican timeshare contracts.
Get documents reviewed. Before signing or paying anything, have a lawyer or reputable timeshare professional check the paperwork.
Know the risks. The majority of timeshares have little or no resale value. If someone promises a big payday, be cautious.
What This Means for the Timeshare Resale Market
The timeshare resale market is flooded with scams because criminals know many owners are desperate to unload their property. Rising maintenance fees, limited booking availability, and financial strain push people to look for ways out.
Scammers exploit this frustration by offering what looks like an easy solution: “We have a buyer ready for your property, just pay these fees.” But in reality, they’re taking advantage of vulnerable owners.
Legitimate resale opportunities are rare, especially for mexican timeshare properties. Many owners find that the fastest, safest route is consulting with a reputable timeshare exit company rather than chasing a buyer who may never exist.
Stay Safe in the Timeshare Resale Market: Get Trusted Help for Your Mexican Timeshare
The indictment shows how dangerous the timeshare resale market can be when criminal groups get involved. If you’re exploring how to sell timeshare property, stay alert. Do not trust unsolicited calls or emails, and never send money upfront for timeshare resale services.
At Vacation Ownership Consultants, we understand how stressful this process can feel. If you own an unwanted timeshare and want honest guidance, we provide a no-cost consultation. Our team reviews your documents, explains your options, and helps you avoid scams while providing a reliable solution.
