Timeshare ownership can be structured in a number of ways. The old way of doing it was to purchase a fixed week at a fixed location. But today's timeshares are often much more flexible. With points- or credits-based programs, you buy points or credits that can be used at various resort destinations. You also choose the unit size, time of year and length of stay based on your vacation needs.

Every year you receive your points or credits on your anniversary date. If some year you can't use all your points, credits, check with your timeshare company to see if you can roll them over into the next year. And if, in the future, you want to vacation longer or in a larger unit, you can upgrade your ownership by purchasing more points, credits or intervals. Today's timeshares can offer the flexibility to adapt to changes in your vacation needs.

A timeshare can be deeded or non-deeded. Most timeshare companies offer timeshares that can last in perpetuity, so you can pass them on to your kids. Some timeshares may only last for a certain number of years.

You buy your timeshare the way you buy a home, with a one-time purchase price. And many timeshare companies offer financing, so you can opt to pay over time. There is also a much smaller sum, payable annually, quarterly or monthly, depending on the timeshare, for maintenance fees. Maintenance fees are shared among all the owners and pay for things such as the upkeep of the buildings and grounds, as well as taxes and insurance.

To sum it up, many of today's timeshares are designed to give you the flexibility to vacation your way. One year you may want to have a family reunion at the beach in a large three-bedroom unit. The next year you may want to take several shorter getaways to different places. Perhaps you will go skiing in the mountains, gaming in Vegas or golfing in Florida. Remember, it's your timeshare - the choice is yours.