Perhaps you've been to one of those horrible time-share sales events, only to discover that you've invested thousands of dollars into a vacation home you only get to use once a year. Your feeling jipped, poor, and in need of good nap. Timeshares don't have to be this way. They can be fun, even profitable. Don't believe us? Check out Guest Invest.

Guest Invest is a cool company in the UK who sells luxury hotel rooms to people who the retain 50% of the rooms annual revenue, in addition to the perk of being able to stay for free up to 52 nights a year. When you buy a luxury hotel room with Guest Invest, you receive half of that revenue for yourself, earning you money while others sleep. You can also stay in your room free of charge for up to 52 nights a year or put it into your SIPP.

Founded by entrepreneur Johnny Sandelson, Guest Invest's new concept in commercial property investment was successfully launched at Guesthouse West in London's Notting Hill in March 2004. Over 10,000 inquiries were generated and rooms were sold out within eight weeks. Investors in Guesthouse West are currently enjoying returns in excess of 6%. Following the success of the Notting Hill's Guesthouse West, Guest Invest has recently added a new Central London Hotel - called Nest - to its portfolio. The hotel is minutes walk from Paddington and rooms are now available for sale from 175,000 Euros (about $212,000) on a 999-year lease. Room owners also have access to London's most glamorous private members' club, Home House.

The Times (UK) appreciates the idea behind Guest Invest offering that, "This new concept offers people an innovative buy-to-let property product with no management hassles, no worries about tenants, more capital growth opportunities and better tax breaks." And the Sunday Times (UK) likes the idea because "Investors in Guesthouse West have earned an income of 6.5% a year after charges. That compares favorably with yields from typical buy-to-let properties in London and comes without the hassle of managing your own property." So while Guest Invest seems to be a worthwhile investment, it appears that only rich people can get on board. The Guest Invest website lists strict guidelines about annual income and other assets potential buyers must have before being considered for a membership with the Guest Invest family. Even if this opportunity is out of reach for most of us, it's comforting to know that the played out time share idea has been disrupted by a hip, luxurious business model that people can't wait to be a part of.