Live, Don't Own

	This Could Be Yours
Photo: ecurie25.co.uk

There's a new saying that goes, "He who dies with the most toys still dies."

In tune with a new lifestyle trend, today's elite forego million-dollar entertainment systems or down payments on the Rolls Royce because they know that today, all that matters is that you're living the life, not necessarily owning it.

Piers Brown, founder of the asset-sharing Web portal FractionalLife.com, helps people sort through what he calls an expanding fractional-ownership marketplace by listing companies by category.

How society defines luxury is changing, particularly in the middle market, toward a focus on experiences, not possessions. "It's not necessarily all about what you own, but perhaps more about the luxury experiences you're having," Brown says.

On the site, which serves as a club for fractional lifers, you can browse by categories like Arts and Property and subscribe for free to receive email updates and online brochures for various participating companies.

"There are some notable early adopters and established standard business models in each category. However, these are constantly evolving based on the changing consumer needs and market dynamics," says Brown, who helps consumers to fit fractional ownership to their lifestyles.

Smart Sharing

But why are so many people sharing to get their kicks?

In the U.K. and U.S., the super-rich don't know fractional ownership exists, explains Brown. It's the "symbols of success" demographic group, which includes moderately wealthy individuals "who have rewarding careers rather than jobs ... and indulge in the most exotic pursuits," that is driving this lifestyle.

Brown credits increases in disposable income, credit availability and low interest rates to a demographic that is trading up. "As a result, the boom in consumer self-actualization, self-improvement and self-gratification has made people reappraise how they spend their money," he says.

Another issue is the rapidly diminishing value on luxury goods, from handbags to cars. "How much is that Chloe ... or sports car you purchased last year now worth on eBay?" asks Brown. "Go on, take a look -- but be prepared for quite a shock."

Surprisingly, though, the biggest driving force behind this new marketplace is the lack of time people have in the face of demanding careers and fast-paced living standards, says Brown.

"Fractional owners don't pretend that they are owners," says Michael Silverstein, author of Trading Up. "They are pleased that they don't have to deal with the hassles of maintenance, improvement and fluctuating value. They like to use the house or the boat as if it were a costume that they have rented for a special event."

Since no two fractional lives are the same, here's a broad selection of my favorite picks.

Pass the Velvet Rope

	Photo: bagborroworsteal.com

M1NT bills itself as the world's first shareholder nightclub. If you live in London, Hong Kong or Cannes, becoming a member puts you on the waiting list for club shares when they become available and immediately gives you the chance to organize and attend events and enjoy free club entrance and a personal in-club concierge service.

The club's current shareholders include billionaires and A-listers, according to its site. If anything, you'll never be pleading to get your name on the guest list.

It's in the Bag

Are last season's handbags piling up in your closet as you cringe at how much you paid for them? Fashion-savvy ladies, your financial salvation is here.