Kingdom Tower is FINALLY (almost) a reality..please help!

[thelionqueen]

Ok, so it's been 2 years of speculating, hoping and wondering if Kingdom Tower was really going to happen...FINALLY...my ULTIMATE Disney Dream is going to come true. So here's my question.

We are planning on buying 2 150 point contracts right off the bat (1 for each son to inherit). How much do we need to have ready when the "Official" announcement is made? Are we going to have to pay 2 closing costs? If I remember correctly, isn't it like 10% down for Disney financing?

I know many will discourage financing this purchase, but it is the only way we can get the amount of points we want. I honestly don't think adding on "down the road" is going to happen; so I want to get it out of the box.

We have been saving for awhile now, and I'm estimating we will need around $4,000 "ish"...you think this is a close estimate?

I can't believe it's FINALLY happening..I am just totally and completely BEYOND happy!!!:banana: :banana: :banana: This is TRULY my ultimate Disney Dream, and it's going to be mine..somebody pinch me..am I dreaming??:lmao: Thanks for the advice!

[Buckeye Fan]

How exciting for you!!! For the record, though I won't add on points there, I think KTV will be AWESOME. We were there a few weeks ago, and it's moving right along. I know most people will want a magic kingdom view, but I bet the view of the lake will be unbelievable!!!:cloud9:

Okay...to your question. Say points are $110, you'll probably need the following:
$3,300 for a downpayment
$100 - $300 for closing (forgot what the exact amount is)
$1,200 for MFs

More than likely, DVC will run some kind of incentive to buy, which may or may not help towards your downpayment. It just depends.

Bottom line, I'd try to have about $4,500 earmarked. Also, if you own a home, check with your mortgage company on loan options. Rates are significantly cheaper than through Dis.

Best of luck and wishing you a VERY early WELCOME HOME!!! party:

[Desnik]

I thought when you buy directly through DVC you don't pay closing costs. Also, you don't have to pay the dues up front for the year. You can pay them monthly.

We are also very excited about KTV and will be adding on there. I would really think about how many points you are buying. I would expect the points to be higher than what they currently are at let's say, BCV. For example, I would imagine a MK view at KTV would cost a lot of points per night, even in the off season. That's just MHO.

We also financed our DVC and I do believe we had to put 10% down.

[the who #3]

i just talked to may guide 3 days ago and she said they don't know anything about sales yet.:confused3

please let me know where you got the almost ready to sale info.

i am on pins and needles!! i can not wait.::yes::

wonder what sort of incentive dvc will offer. when i purchased thru dvc they paid the closing cost. i think it was just cost per pt, tax, and a small fee to have your deed recorded. but then i may be wrong, after all it has been a little while since akv started to sell and sometimes my memory escapes me.

does anyone know if they will have a concierge level?:snooty:

[Judy WI]

I thought when you buy directly through DVC you don't pay closing costs. Also, you don't have to pay the dues up front for the year. You can pay them monthly. .

You pay closing cost to Disney now on the first purchase, I believe it is a set amount no mater how many points. Any add on later are with out closing costs. This was a change in the last couple of years.

[Eeyoreloverforever]

But what is Kingdom Tower?

[Monorail Purple&Gold]

I thought when you buy directly through DVC you don't pay closing costs. Also, you don't have to pay the dues up front for the year. You can pay them monthly.

There are closing costs, I think ours was between $300 and $400 (bought in last month). It was absorbed into our down payment, so to speak.

[louisianatigger]

RUMOR on another site form someone in the KNOW says KT will go own sale JULY 1st. Think this could happen? Said sales were real slow. Lot of old guides left after restructor of pay and if sales stay slow they want meet their goals for this year. So if KT starts to sale by july they should be fine for this year and next. Also claims to have seen documents on DVC for POLY and GF.One more thing said to expect 8 mth. sell out of KT.

[spiceycat]

But what is Kingdom Tower?

the tower that is going up next to the CR.
the full name
is KT @CR

Kingdom Towers at Contemporary Resort

hoping for Disney Towers, or Magic Towers, or WDW towers, or even DVC towers, even CR towers...

but anyway have to live with what they picked.

[spiceycat]

RUMOR on another site form someone in the KNOW says KT will go own sale JULY 1st. Think this could happen?

don't know.

but generally they announce something and sales start in 6 months.

since the building won't be finished inside and outside until 2009 at the earliest - just don't know

I expect the annoucement this May and sales to begin in 2009.

but hey everything is just guess work.

8 months to sell out KT - don't know - that might be one reason to make the annoucement later. more anticipation.

something is going up - now what?:rolleyes1

[DW-Admin]

money in hand...... waiting to buy another 160 on top of my 160 at SSR..... now all we can do is wait and hope :)

[louisianatigger]

the tower that is going up next to the CR.
the full name
is KT @CR

Kingdom Towers at Contemporary Resort

hoping for Disney Towers, or Magic Towers, or WDW towers, or even DVC towers, even CR towers...

but anyway have to live with what they picked.

On other site rumor Say's " NO WAY ON NAME CHANGE"

[louisianatigger]

RUMOR.....expect 8 mth sell out, NO incentives No early sells for DVC members. Will go on sell to everyone at the same time.

[WALTSAGOD]

On other site rumor Say's " NO WAY ON NAME CHANGE"

Whats that mean?

[DVC Mike]

RUMOR on another site form someone in the KNOW says KT will go own sale JULY 1st.

I think the rumor from "Deep Croaker" said KTR would be announced on July 1.

[louisianatigger]

296 unites at KT. How many points will they have to sell and how will that compare to other resorts?

[WALTSAGOD]

RUMOR.....expect 8 mth sell out, NO incentives No early sells for DVC members. Will go on sell to everyone at the same time.

They won't have to offer any incentives, but an advance buy in to DVC members would be a nice perk that should be offered; they don't lose anything.


I'd still rather POLY.

[WALTSAGOD]

296 unites at KT. How many points will they have to sell and how will that compare to other resorts?

Anyone?

[Monorail Purple&Gold]

296 unites at KT. How many points will they have to sell and how will that compare to other resorts?

Puts KT in between BCV and BWV for units.

[louisianatigger]

I think the rumor from "Deep Croaker" said KTR would be announced on July 1.

On other site post #75 "DEEP CROAKER" SAY'S HE FEELS THE ANNOUNCEMENT DATE WILL BE THE SALES START DATE, OR WITHIN TWO WEEKS OF JULY 1st. Let me say I give all credit for this information to" DEEP CROAKER " PRETTY GOOD STUFF !!!!!!!

[louisianatigger]

They won't have to offer any incentives, but an advance buy in to DVC members would be a nice perk that should be offered; they don't lose anything.


I'd still rather POLY.

Hope thats true for DVC MEMBERS. I'm on the out side looking in as I am noe a member yet. have been kicking this around for two years. DW says go ahead with the announcement of KT. She always said if there was DVC on the monorail thats the one she would join. So alittle while longer for my soon to be Fellow DVC owners to take first shot at KT is fine with me. Just save me enough point for 1 bedroom MKV.!!!!

[tjkraz]

296 unites at KT. How many points will they have to sell and how will that compare to other resorts?

Unit-wise it's a little smaller than the BoardWalk. However the volume of points they have to sell will depend upon the points chart. Based upon information we already have, most villa sizes at KT will average higher annual points DVC properties.

On other site post #75 "DEEP CROAKER" SAY'S HE FEELS THE ANNOUNCEMENT DATE WILL BE THE SALES START DATE, OR WITHIN TWO WEEKS OF JULY 1st. Let me say I give all credit for this information to" DEEP CROAKER " PRETTY GOOD STUFF !!!!!!!

Well, we all know it's coming. This particular "source" has been right on some occasions and wrong on others. ;) When it comes to decisions that would be made at very high corporate levels, I wouldn't put too much value in the rumor mill...particularly without corroboration from multiple sources.

And if it isn't July, I will be August or September or....sometime soon, regardless.

[Pirate at Heart]

Could someone tell me what the "other site" is?

I would like to compare information.

Thnkx

pirate:

[louisianatigger]

DC also said "KT models at SSR have been signed off on, no more changes from imangineering are expected, they are in there final form. So my question is can they build models by JULY 1st, or are they already there and just doing a few changes here and there? ANYONE?

[dvc at last !]

thanks

[podsnel]

Is Deep Croaker our Deep Throat of DVC??!!!:laughing:

[salmoneous]

296 unites at KT. How many points will they have to sell and how will that compare to other resorts? Here's one way to look at it. From public filings, we know Disney plans to sell 1.5 million points in 75 units for 2009. That gives us about 6 million points for the full 296 units. In 2007, Disney sold about 3.5 million points.

[louisianatigger]

Here's one way to look at it. From public filings, we know Disney plans to sell 1.5 million points in 75 units for 2009. That gives us about 6 million points for the full 296 units. In 2007, Disney sold about 3.5 million points.

Might be a good idea to wait for phase II, If they don't offer incentive see how points are selling. Might luck up on some type of incentive once the BIG RUSH is over !!! Thats if they don't offer one right away.

[dianeschlicht]

Ok, so it's been 2 years of speculating, hoping and wondering if Kingdom Tower was really going to happen...FINALLY...my ULTIMATE Disney Dream is going to come true. So here's my question.

We are planning on buying 2 150 point contracts right off the bat (1 for each son to inherit). How much do we need to have ready when the "Official" announcement is made? Are we going to have to pay 2 closing costs? If I remember correctly, isn't it like 10% down for Disney financing?

I know many will discourage financing this purchase, but it is the only way we can get the amount of points we want. I honestly don't think adding on "down the road" is going to happen; so I want to get it out of the box.

We have been saving for awhile now, and I'm estimating we will need around $4,000 "ish"...you think this is a close estimate?

I can't believe it's FINALLY happening..I am just totally and completely BEYOND happy!!!:banana: :banana: :banana: This is TRULY my ultimate Disney Dream, and it's going to be mine..somebody pinch me..am I dreaming??:lmao: Thanks for the advice!

Better change those to two 160 point contracts, because that is the minimum now. No 150 point contracts available direct from Disney anymore.

[ebenmax]

Also claims to have seen documents on DVC for POLY and GF.


Now these are the two we are waiting for!! Here's hoping this is a TRUE rumor!!

[thelionqueen]

OK, so I'm saving $5k just to be safe! I'm not planning on any type of incentive from Disney on KT and I am estimating that points will be around $125.

I am a cast member, and I'm not waiting for any type of CM incentive or public incentive either. The second (and I do mean second people:lmao: ) it is announced, Disney will have my money and I will be on my way to owning the one true thing I've always wanted.

I feel like a kid at Christmas, knowing I'm going to get the best most expensive present I've ever gotten. Except of course, I have to pay for it..but oh well:rotfl2:

Thanks for the great replies! Hey Mississippian...IT'S FINALLY COMING!!!:thumbsup2

[CarolA]

Well at least this time I just get to sit back and watch. I played for AKV. LOL!

[ZekeKelso]

Who knows what will happen. But I have a hard time picturing Disney getting $125/point when resale SSR points go for around $80. And you better believe that if folks do pay $125/point, they are going to use those points at CRV in the 11-month window.

My guess is Disney will come out of the gate asking for closer to $110/point. And even then I see them having trouble selling out without rebates and incentives off that price. But they might get it the first few waves of pre-buys.

We'll see what happens. But if I wanted in and this wasn't a life-long dream, I'd wait for the better deal down the line. Then again, maybe there are enough folks for whom this is a life-long dream that there won't be better deals.

[Off-The-Deep-End]

DC also said "KT models at SSR have been signed off on, no more changes from imangineering are expected, they are in there final form. So my question is can they build models by JULY 1st, or are they already there and just doing a few changes here and there? ANYONE?

The models have been there for sometime, and now they are finalized, so if the doors weren't locked at the SSR sales center you could see them now, as others accidentally did before, as reported in the past here on the DIS. I can't find the threads to link to, sorry.

[Troop o' Goofs]

Who knows what will happen. But I have a hard time picturing Disney getting $125/point when resale SSR points go for around $80. And you better believe that if folks do pay $125/point, they are going to use those points at CRV in the 11-month window.

My guess is Disney will come out of the gate asking for closer to $110/point. And even then I see them having trouble selling out without rebates and incentives off that price. But they might get it the first few waves of pre-buys.

We'll see what happens. But if I wanted in and this wasn't a life-long dream, I'd wait for the better deal down the line. Then again, maybe there are enough folks for whom this is a life-long dream that there won't be better deals.

I think the reason SSR is at $80/pt is because of it's location. CR, being so close to MK and monorail access will demand higher $/pt. Just my opinion though. :confused3

[DisFlan]

Looks like we'll be sticking with BWV - which we love. We may go to KT for a visit or a night here and there. KT looks nice and all, but one of the reasons we liked and joined DVC was to get away from the ubiquitous "high rise" timeshare resort. None of the DVCs, until now, were more than a few stories. KT has a great location, but basically, it's a high rise resort.

And to be honest, I understand the space constraints, but I still don't understand why they chose a "round/U-shaped" tower - ignoring the iconic shape of the Contemporary right next to it. It seems like they could have come up with something that would have complemented the Contemporary a little more.


DisFlan

[byoung]

Want enought points for a weeks stay.

[thelionqueen]

Another couple cents from me on previous posts; again, just my opinion.

SSR resale is going around $80 a point, and some OKW contracts are even cheaper than that. SSR (which I think is an AMAZING resort btw) is HUGE and has a lot of points. It's location (which I also LOVE) is not as appealing to some buyers as other locations. You may also notice that BCV points are going for upwards of $92+ per point. My point? KTR is going to be highly sought after for many reasons. Primarily of it's location and being the only DVC with monorail access. That said, I am only estimating $125 per point so that I can be ready for whatever the cost is; I am estimating high for this reason. I am also anticipating around $110 per point.

As far as the design; I think it's very well thought out and a great architectural layout. My personal liking of it's layout is that many of the rooms will have some sort of a decent view. If it were more of a "two-sided" building, the majority of guests would probably want the side facing MK (although I personally prefer the bay view). Also, there is not a whole heck of a lot of room on that side of CR, so have a semi-circular design seems like the best possible decision for view and space restraints.

I also think that getting into KT at the 7 month window will be extremely hard. Look at BCV now. There is always the lucky few who can get in seemingly almost whenever they travel, but, in general, I think planning on using other resorts points at KT will be hard to get. Think of all the resorts currently, and forthcoming (GCV & Hawaii) and others not even announced yet. I think (again, just my opinion people) counting on getting into KT at the 7 month window will be a crap shoot at best. I believe this about GCV as well.

Anyway, just my thoughts. Thanks for the thoughtful insight and replies, you all ROCK!!:thumbsup2

[tjkraz]

I also think that getting into KT at the 11 month window will be extremely hard. Look at BCV now. There is always the lucky few who can get in seemingly almost whenever they travel, but, in general, I think planning on using other resorts points at KT will be hard to get. Think of all the resorts currently, and forthcoming (GCV & Hawaii) and others not even announced yet. I think (again, just my opinion people) counting on getting into KT at the 11 month window will be a crap shoot at best. I believe this about GCV as well.

Only owners at a resort have access at 11 months. Given that limited audience, it won't be terribly hard for owners to get in most times of the year. Certainly December will be hard (as it is everywhere), and there will be a smattering of other sought-after dates. But given the inability to oversell a resort, it's pretty much impossible for 11-month reservations to be difficult year-round.

At 7 months, it's a different story. But not too much different than the story we've heard before.

There WILL be availability at 7 months--there's no question of that. As is the case at all other resorts, owners of KTV will not be consistently booking at their Home resort more than 8 months out year-round.

Some won't book all of their points that early. Some will book other resorts. Some will bank points. Some will allow points to expire unused.

So there will be rooms available at 7 months. But a likely high demand for KTV among non-owners means that those rooms will be booked quickly by non-owners.

The byproduct of a resort with high demand is that it will reduce demand elsewhere. Most seem to be arguing that all of the resorts currently under development (Contemporary, Grand Californian, AKV Kidani and even Hawaii) will be highly sought-after by members. If that's true, it should lighten the load on other resorts like the BoardWalk and Beach Club.

[FLYNZ4]

The byproduct of a resort with high demand is that it will reduce demand elsewhere. Most seem to be arguing that all of the resorts currently under development (Contemporary, Grand Californian, AKV Kidani and even Hawaii) will be highly sought-after by members. If that's true, it should lighten the load on other resorts like the BoardWalk and Beach Club.
I believe that is true.

My initial thoughts are that the WDW resorts will drive different availability changes than the GC/Hawaii resorts.

New WDW resorts: I think that AKL and Contemporary will make it somewhat easier to find properties in various resorts at the 7 month mark. Both are considered highly desireable... so I think there will be more people booking different places at the 7 month mark... which in turn means that there will be a higher level of inventory turns at 7 months... which in turn results in more resort exchanges possible at 7 months. Hence... more competition and more availability at 7 months... which should work to the advantage of those WDW DVC members who are aggressively booking other WDW DVC locations.

Non-WDW resorts: I think that GC... and especially Hawaii will make it easier for people to get home resort reservations close to the 11 month mark. I think as people choose to use their points away from WDW (ex: at Hawaii)... those points will of course not be used on WDW... which should open up some availability at the 11 month mark. At the 7 month mark... the people who own Hawaii will be competing for WDW resorts... so that will balance out the people competing for Hawaii.

Bottom line: I think the non-WDW properties will drive points away from WDW during the 11-7 month window. By contrast... the new WDW properties will drive more "inside of WDW" exchanges within the 7 month window. Hence... the affect on WDW DVC availability will be different.

/Jim

[CarolMN]

......(snip).......As far as the design; I think it's very well thought out and a great architectural layout. My personal liking of it's layout is that many of the rooms will have some sort of a decent view. If it were more of a "two-sided" building, the majority of guests would probably want the side facing MK (although I personally prefer the bay view). Also, there is not a whole heck of a lot of room on that side of CR, so have a semi-circular design seems like the best possible decision for view and space restraints. ......I think we will prefer the bay view as well. Given the height of the building, I wonder how desirable the MK view will really be - I personally don't care to see the roof tops and "backstage" areas of the MK. It spoils some of the "magic" for me. When we ate at the CG, I was disappointed in the view - until the darkness "erased" most of the backstage areas. :) It was definitely magical at night, though!

[Twingle]

Would love an "official" announcement soon! Question for those of you that have been around for awhile, but if there was DVC at GF and Poly, where do you think they would put them?

And, thanks to the pp regarding point contract size - I thought we could still do 150 points also.

[culli]

I hope KT goes well and a possible advantage to people looking to add additional points could be lower prices of other resorts resale :idea: :cool1:

I know Disney still has ROFR but...........SSR and OKW seem to get lower and lower every month on the resale boards. I would love to own at KT but I have said before every resort has its pluses and minuses while none of them have everything. I don't see myself paying $125 a point when I could buy OKW, SSR or any others for $55-$40 per pt cheaper. Already seeing the prices of BWC and VWL dropping to the sub $85 range and could drop more with people selling to get KT and the exper dates:teacher:

Could be a win/win situation for many of us:dance3:

[thelionqueen]

Only owners at a resort have access at 11 months. Given that limited audience, it won't be terribly hard for owners to get in most times of the year. Certainly December will be hard (as it is everywhere), and there will be a smattering of other sought-after dates. But given the inability to oversell a resort, it's pretty much impossible for 11-month reservations to be difficult year-round.

At 7 months, it's a different story. But not too much different than the story we've heard before.

There WILL be availability at 7 months--there's no question of that. As is the case at all other resorts, owners of KTV will not be consistently booking at their Home resort more than 8 months out year-round.

Some won't book all of their points that early. Some will book other resorts. Some will bank points. Some will allow points to expire unused.

So there will be rooms available at 7 months. But a likely high demand for KTV among non-owners means that those rooms will be booked quickly by non-owners.

The byproduct of a resort with high demand is that it will reduce demand elsewhere. Most seem to be arguing that all of the resorts currently under development (Contemporary, Grand Californian, AKV Kidani and even Hawaii) will be highly sought-after by members. If that's true, it should lighten the load on other resorts like the BoardWalk and Beach Club.


I meant 7 month, not 11 month:rolleyes1

I believe there will also be availability at the 7 month window, but counting on getting the dates you want at KTV with points at other DVC's will be a challenge. I hope it will "lighten the load" on the currently hard to get in BCV & Boardwalk as well.

Just personally for me, KTV is the one I want, so I am going to buy there. I will likely use my points exclusively for stays there. In the future, when I want to venture back to OKW & BCV, I'm sure I'll have a much easier time booking there with KTV points than booking KTV vice versa.

I just LOVE speculating about all the details and hearing everyone's opinions; the DIS is the most knowledgeable Disney resource I use. YOU ROCK!! Keep em' coming.

This thread keeps my spirits up while I'm working 70+ hours a week saving money for my KTV points. Last week I worked 86 hours and this week only 74:scared1: Two more weeks and I'll have it ready to go!:cool1: BUT, until then....:surfweb:

[culli]

This thread keeps my spirits up while I'm working 70+ hours a week saving money for my KTV points. Last week I worked 86 hours and this week only 74:scared1: Two more weeks and I'll have it ready to go!:cool1: BUT, until then....:surfweb:

:scared: 74 and 86 hours :scared1:

Good luck to you, when do you have time or energy for the dis boards :confused:

[thelionqueen]

:scared: 74 and 86 hours :scared1:

Good luck to you, when do you have time or energy for the dis boards :confused:

Sundays at 2:00:rotfl:

[louisianatigger]

Great Thread...

[the who #3]

let me know if anyone finds out about concierges at kt (yes or no). i would like to purchase enough pts to stay on that level once in a while. also incentive will make a lot of difference. wonder what it will be.pixiedust:

the closer i get to retirement the more time i will spend either relaxing at my dvc or killing myself at the wdw parks with the kids. just a few more years to go.:goodvibes

[dugski]

I am new to the threads and all a new member- making our first trip home(AKV) next week.I want to thank you all for all the useful info.

Question: where do I go to found out the point value for the home resorts? I am thinking of adding on but like you say I would like to get a bargain if one arises. I would love to know what goes on sale.:)

[spiceycat]

let me know if anyone finds out about concierges at kt (yes or no). i would like to purchase enough pts to stay on that level once in a while.


don't know for sure but won't count on it.

we got concierge at AKL - because the concierge units were already part of the AKL concierge.

since KT is a new building - won't count on it.

[spiceycat]

And to be honest, I understand the space constraints, but I still don't understand why they chose a "round/U-shaped" tower - ignoring the iconic shape of the Contemporary right next to it. It seems like they could have come up with something that would have complemented the Contemporary a little more.


DisFlan

well I though A - tower, B - south wing when converted, C - the north wing

so a, b c's

well I got corrected and he is probably correct.

not B - but D

then D (upside A) V C.....

good advertisement.

[the who #3]

some of the wdw structures seem to have a hidden shape and its not always mickey. may kt also has a hidden shape that is not evident at this point or may be in the plans years down the road. they usually do think and plan way ahead.:)

[brack]

We're going to add points but where is still the question. :confused3 "The Tower" sounds cool but who knows? Maybe some OKW points would be just as good. :thumbsup2

[the who #3]

i am planning to add on at kt.

i did stay at okw once and loved it, that whole place (and it is big) is just beautiful and you can even catch the boat to dtd. it is a really good buy.:goodvibes

[keishashadow]

:eek: We'll be @ the DLH July 1st...save some points for us;) , my guide still disavows any knowledge of said building's purpose:rolleyes1

I thought that DVC typically announced their project (allowing peeps to dig up the dough); then sales commenced within a reasonable time frame (few months):confused: ?

Any thoughts on whether they'll still allow small, multiple cash add-ons...as in easier to dispose of if need be?popcorn::

[spiceycat]

Would love an "official" announcement soon! Question for those of you that have been around for awhile, but if there was DVC at GF and Poly, where do you think they would put them?

And, thanks to the pp regarding point contract size - I thought we could still do 150 points also.

no 160 points.

well they have yet to put a DVC resort where they say - expect for BC.

so don't know.

the polyn was supose to be over near the luva - but that was before the wedding chappel. It might be in the valet parking lot - with the race track so close - unless they have excellent and I mean the best sound proofing - would not be interested. those race cars are LOUD.

now where I would love a DVC is where Tahiti is now at the polyn.


akv was surpose to be a small addition near the buses - well it isn't. It is a heck of lot bigger.

if the KT sell outs fast - they might consider one at the Polyn or GF - but hey I waited 15 years for one on the monrail at all. be happy with what you get.

dvc was only promised one on the monrail. So the Polyn and GF might just be DVC dream - not reality.

if you want a DVC on the monrail then buy KT - don't wait for the Poly or GF - you might be waiting for years.

though when the Polyn had that big problem with mold. that those building would be torn down and DVC would be there. that didn't happen. Disney spend a fortune on this hotel - so don't expect any DVC units here for at least 10 years if not 15 years.

GF - different story. the seven seasons resort that is going up over near FW will be a real 5 star resort. GF has never gone head to head with a 5 star resort. So it might be hurt. So there is a possiblity that DVC could move in here in 5 years might be less. depending upon the competition.

polyn has people who will stay there regardless of the price or anything.
the GF doesn't seem to have that kind of following.

[spiceycat]

I thought that DVC typically announced their project (allowing peeps to dig up the dough); then sales commenced within a reasonable time frame (few months):confused: ?

Any thoughts on whether they'll still allow small, multiple cash add-ons...as in easier to dispose of if need be?popcorn::

25 points will be the smallest add on

50 points if you need financing.

but don't expect any of the discounts or bonus points - those go with 120 points or more. probably more for the KT

DVC use to announce before hand. So just don't know. Hope they do - just not ready to buy until fall, 2009. If they start selling in July, 2008 - really doubt there will be any in fall, 2009. can definitely count on a raise in prices by then.

[Disney Spaz]

DH and I are thinking that KT won't be released until SSR is sold out. They way I figure it AKV can compete with KT because of the savanna but SSR doesn't offer a unique catch like the monorail or savanna. I know it has DTD but I don't put that on equal par to AK or MK like ALV & KT.

[keishashadow]

25 points will be the smallest add on

50 points if you need financing.

but don't expect any of the discounts or bonus points - those go with 120 points or more. probably more for the KT

DVC use to announce before hand. So just don't know. Hope they do - just not ready to buy until fall, 2009. If they start selling in July, 2008 - really doubt there will be any in fall, 2009. can definitely count on a raise in prices by then.

thanks, i hope they don't tinker with the current 25/50 status:wizard: , would like to keep paying cash for smaller contracts so as not to go 'into hock';)

Diane (or anybody else who has a good memory lol)- know you bought AKV, do you recall whether they announced AKV in advance of actual sales/time frame?, can't say i really followed it when it came out.

[Starr W.]

DH and I are thinking that KT won't be released until SSR is sold out. They way I figure it AKV can compete with KT because of the savanna but SSR doesn't offer a unique catch like the monorail or savanna. I know it has DTD but I don't put that on equal par to AK or MK like ALV & KT.

SSR is supposed to be sold out shortly(ie this summer according to some of the feedback members are gettting from their guides).

[spiceycat]

SSR doesn't offer a unique catch like the monorail or savanna. I know it has DTD but I don't put that on equal par to AK or MK like ALV & KT.

you are not in your 20's and only recently started to drink.... then SSR is great you can actually walk back to your room from PI or take the bus (if you remember).

of course even more of a reason to go with BWV or BCV - not only the BW but the food/wine festavial. but that is once year. PI is open every night

[CarolA]

.

GF - different story. the seven seasons resort that is going up over near FW will be a real 5 star resort. GF has never gone head to head with a 5 star resort. So it might be hurt. So there is a possiblity that DVC could move in here in 5 years might be less. depending upon the competition.

.

Might hurt:lmao: The GF is SO far below a top tier five star resort it's not even FUNNY! I know you are from Alabama. I have stayed at both the GF and the Marriott Birmingham. Guess which was better?? ?THE MARRIOTT!!:rotfl2:

Hopefully actually having some closer competetion will get Disney to figure out HOW to run a hotel that costs that much per night, but I am doubtful. These boards are FULL of folks who have no problem paying top dollar for moderate value becuase "it's Disney and it's ok to accept less":scared1:

[CarolA]

DH and I are thinking that KT won't be released until SSR is sold out. They way I figure it AKV can compete with KT because of the savanna but SSR doesn't offer a unique catch like the monorail or savanna. I know it has DTD but I don't put that on equal par to AK or MK like ALV & KT.

Given a choice... KT or SSR. I am staying SSR.

For some of us the MK is the LAST draw on Disney so having a resort next to it is no big deal.

And I find the monorail to be the most frustrating transportation experience on Disney property. Give me a bus or boat ANY day!

[jbrowna]

Might hurt:lmao: The GF is SO far below a top tier five star resort it's not even FUNNY! I know you are from Alabama. I have stayed at both the GF and the Marriott Birmingham. Guess which was better?? ?THE MARRIOTT!!:rotfl2:

Hopefully actually having some closer competetion will get Disney to figure out HOW to run a hotel that costs that much per night, but I am doubtful. These boards are FULL of folks who have no problem paying top dollar for moderate value becuase "it's Disney and it's ok to accept less":scared1:

Never having stayed at a "top tier five star resort" I am curious: what makes it so? I have stayed at the GF and, to tell you the truth, it is probably my least favorite resort. I felt like I had to always be on my best behavior, as if I was always being watched to make sure I didn't do anything "low class." Is a five star resort just more of the same, people hovering over you -- yes, I suppose to look out for your every need -- but making me feel uncomfortable? Since you obviously have stayed at a five star resort, and enjoyed it, can you describe what makes it so? Is it little things or some big thing that makes a true five star resort so much above GF?

I suppose I'm not enough of a snob to think I deserve star treatment. I'd rather carry my own bags and turn down my own covers -- if those are the things that make for five stars I'm not sure I really think they're all that significant or all that worth it. Or am I missing something? What makes a five star experience a five star experience? And how much is it really worth? And how is it such a qualitative difference from what Disney does? :confused3

[CarolA]

Never having stayed at a "top tier five star resort" I am curious: what makes it so? I have stayed at the GF and, to tell you the truth, it is probably my least favorite resort. I felt like I had to always be on my best behavior, as if I was always being watched to make sure I didn't do anything "low class." Is a five star resort just more of the same, people hovering over you -- yes, I suppose to look out for your every need -- but making me feel uncomfortable? Since you obviously have stayed at a five star resort, and enjoyed it, can you describe what makes it so? Is it little things or some big thing that makes a true five star resort so much above GF?

I suppose I'm not enough of a snob to think I deserve star treatment. I'd rather carry my own bags and turn down my own covers -- if those are the things that make for five stars I'm not sure I really think they're all that significant or all that worth it. Or am I missing something? What makes a five star experience a five star experience? And how much is it really worth? And how is it such a qualitative difference from what Disney does? :confused3

I have been lucky enought to get to stay at some top tier resorts.

I posted a detail comparison of a four star to a Disney Deluxe last year after my stay in the Hermitage in Nashville.

It's the LITTLE things.

1. The valet service was quick, efficent and smiling. (At the GF it took them an hour to get my car, I had to HUNT someone down to take my car and the only offer of luggage assistance came AFTER I got the front desk. If I got it that far without your help, you don't get the tip LOL!) I rarely allow them to take my luggage at any hotel as I generally have carry on only. But the GF bellman was incredibly PUSHY... He wanted that tip LOL!

2. I was introduced to the concerige at the Hermitage who offered to do anything he could to assist me. I was NOT on a special floor this was a service for ALL guests! I was not pointed in the general direction of a long line.

3. The quality of the room is just DRAMATICALLY better. Things like little flat screen TV's in the bath, seperate shower/tub. Bathrobes.

4. The linens. There is NO comparison... Just trust me, these beds were SO wonderful I just wanted to stay in them forever.

4. Service, turn down is automatic not "on request"

Personally the GF is one of the "snobbiest" places I have stayed. My overall impression is that the staff was "letting the riffraff" stay in thier nice hotel. At truly nice hotels, I don't get that feeling. The service is very "low key" but excellent.

Just to give you an example, at the Hermitage I walked down the street to the grocery and bought some stuff for my room. There was no response when I returned with my grocery bags so I didn't think they were "looking down" on me. At the GF I HEARD a valet complain about groceries. AT a DISNEY HOTEL??? Come on now! LOL!

Now I don't have a problem with NOT receiving these things, but for what the GF charges and the way Disney advertises... they need to deliver! It's a pretty hotel. Pretty is not worth thier prices. If they want to pretend to be a four star then they need to live up to the standards. Mobil travel ranks it a three star.

[jbrowna]

Carol -

Thanks for the reply! So I guess it wasn't just DW and I who kind of felt like the GF people were looking at us like the Beverly Hillbillies or something! ;) But from your description, five star service doesn't have to mean five star snootiness!

Also, from what you say, it sounds like it isn't so much the physical quality (but some of that as well), but more the training of the staff that makes most of the difference. How sad, since I understand that Disney used to be considered the template for training in the hospitality industry.

I wonder how much the outsourcing of things like valet parking and maintenance might have to do with it?

[spiceycat]

Hopefully actually having some closer competetion will get Disney to figure out HOW to run a hotel that costs that much per night, but I am doubtful. These boards are FULL of folks who have no problem paying top dollar for moderate value becuase "it's Disney and it's ok to accept less":scared1:

you know better - they will give half of the resort to DVC.:rotfl:

haven't done any 5 stars - but even 4 stars non-disney are better. it is the little thinks - like the sheets. actually getting the service from the conciege staff. It was pretty wonderful.

that say the AAA in Orlando is hard - even the Ritz-Carlton which is much, much better than Disney got 4 stars.

[mykidsintow]

I a glad to know I am not the only one feeling like they have stepped out of the hills when going to GF. I feel like the "wrong class of people".

Maybe its just me, but its definately not my style.... :confused3

[danielle782001]

:goodvibes

[thelionqueen]

I a glad to know I am not the only one feeling like they have stepped out of the hills when going to GF. I feel like the "wrong class of people".

Maybe its just me, but its definately not my style.... :confused3

This is the first time I've heard comments about the GF that are EXCACTLY how I feel!

Honestly, I feel like I'm at a hospital or another "sterile" environment when I'm there. There is no Disney "magic" at all there for me, and the whole general theme is just kinda blah.

Every hotel/resort holds something special for those who stay there, which I think Disney has done impecabbly by offering the vast amounts of resorts they have. But for me, the Contemporary is the "Disneyland Hotel" of Florida, and the DLH is pure Disney magic for me.

[spiceycat]

Honestly, I feel like I'm at a hospital or another "sterile" environment when I'm there. There is no Disney "magic" at all there for me, and the whole general theme is just kinda blah.


exactly - don't like GF and never have. get the chills everything I go in that place - it is just not a warn and friendly place like CR or Polyn.

definitely no magic - just the versus - kept seeing the darn thing on fire and stuck there..... in real life have no wish to be - so avoid if it possible.

since mother no longer goes to WDW with me - really doubt I will go into that place again.

[HayGan]

I a glad to know I am not the only one feeling like they have stepped out of the hills when going to GF. I feel like the "wrong class of people".

Maybe its just me, but its definately not my style.... :confused3

This is the first time I've heard comments about the GF that are EXCACTLY how I feel!

Honestly, I feel like I'm at a hospital or another "sterile" environment when I'm there. There is no Disney "magic" at all there for me, and the whole general theme is just kinda blah.

Every hotel/resort holds something special for those who stay there, which I think Disney has done impecabbly by offering the vast amounts of resorts they have. But for me, the Contemporary is the "Disneyland Hotel" of Florida, and the DLH is pure Disney magic for me.

exactly - don't like GF and never have. get the chills everything I go in that place - it is just not a warn and friendly place like CR or Polyn.

definitely no magic - just the versus - kept seeing the darn thing on fire and stuck there..... in real life have no wish to be - so avoid if it possible.

since mother no longer goes to WDW with me - really doubt I will go into that place again.


:thumbsup2 I completely agree!!! Glad to hear I'm not the only one. All you ever hear is how fabulous it is. I don't get it at all. There is nothing appealing (other than that darn Monorail) to us about the GF. Cold and snotty is how DH describes it. Now we feel right at home at the Polynesian!

[jakenjess]

I have been lucky enought to get to stay at some top tier resorts.

I posted a detail comparison of a four star to a Disney Deluxe last year after my stay in the Hermitage in Nashville.

It's the LITTLE things.

1. The valet service was quick, efficent and smiling. (At the GF it took them an hour to get my car, I had to HUNT someone down to take my car and the only offer of luggage assistance came AFTER I got the front desk. If I got it that far without your help, you don't get the tip LOL!) I rarely allow them to take my luggage at any hotel as I generally have carry on only. But the GF bellman was incredibly PUSHY... He wanted that tip LOL!

2. I was introduced to the concerige at the Hermitage who offered to do anything he could to assist me. I was NOT on a special floor this was a service for ALL guests! I was not pointed in the general direction of a long line.

3. The quality of the room is just DRAMATICALLY better. Things like little flat screen TV's in the bath, seperate shower/tub. Bathrobes.

4. The linens. There is NO comparison... Just trust me, these beds were SO wonderful I just wanted to stay in them forever.

4. Service, turn down is automatic not "on request"

Personally the GF is one of the "snobbiest" places I have stayed. My overall impression is that the staff was "letting the riffraff" stay in thier nice hotel. At truly nice hotels, I don't get that feeling. The service is very "low key" but excellent.

Just to give you an example, at the Hermitage I walked down the street to the grocery and bought some stuff for my room. There was no response when I returned with my grocery bags so I didn't think they were "looking down" on me. At the GF I HEARD a valet complain about groceries. AT a DISNEY HOTEL??? Come on now! LOL!

Now I don't have a problem with NOT receiving these things, but for what the GF charges and the way Disney advertises... they need to deliver! It's a pretty hotel. Pretty is not worth thier prices. If they want to pretend to be a four star then they need to live up to the standards. Mobil travel ranks it a three star.


Carol, it makes me so sad to hear these things!:sad2: We stayed at the GF once, and that was for our honeymoon in '91. It was fantastic! Now, we've never stayed at a five-star hotel, so probably didn't have a good comparison, but the staff was very friendly, professional, and we didn't feel a bit out of place. Turndown service was automatic, valet was prompt and courteous, and we had bathrobes in our room. (We just had a standard room.) It's disheartening to hear how things have gone downhill. We've always said we'd like to spend a couple of nights there for our 25th anniversary, but if that's the kind of service they're offering, forget it! Not at the prices they're charging these days!:scared1:

[CarolA]

Carol, it makes me so sad to hear these things!:sad2: We stayed at the GF once, and that was for our honeymoon in '91. It was fantastic! Now, we've never stayed at a five-star hotel, so probably didn't have a good comparison, but the staff was very friendly, professional, and we didn't feel a bit out of place. Turndown service was automatic, valet was prompt and courteous, and we had bathrobes in our room. (We just had a standard room.) It's disheartening to hear how things have gone downhill. We've always said we'd like to spend a couple of nights there for our 25th anniversary, but if that's the kind of service they're offering, forget it! Not at the prices they're charging these days!:scared1:

My stay was a few years ago. Things may have changed, but for those prices I don't think they have hit the standard:rotfl2: When Mobil gives them a four or five star rating I will assume they have hit the mark.

Now for the expected scream of "you only stayed there once" Yes and why should I give them a second chance? For that much money I should not have to accept "so so"

[jakenjess]

Now for the expected scream of "you only stayed there once" Yes and why should I give them a second chance? For that much money I should not have to accept "so so"

You shouldn't accept "so so"! Not for those prices! Maybe the Four Seasons will be the impetus they need to improve their service. Believe me, if we had had a bad experience there, we would be saying never again too!

[AKV707]

I thought when you buy directly through DVC you don't pay closing costs. Also, you don't have to pay the dues up front for the year. You can pay them monthly.

We are also very excited about KTV and will be adding on there. I would really think about how many points you are buying. I would expect the points to be higher than what they currently are at let's say, BCV. For example, I would imagine a MK view at KTV would cost a lot of points per night, even in the off season. That's just MHO.

We also financed our DVC and I do believe we had to put 10% down.

DVC charges closing costs, around $300, for a new purchase. There are no closing costs on add ons.

To the OP, before you decide how many points, take a look at the point chart, which will have to be available before sales begin, to determine what your vacation point needs will be. I am sure that there will be different views as well as room categories.

I also think that at least one of your contracts needs to be for 160 points. I could be wrong.

By the way, I have read that the name Kingdom Tower is out and the new name is Bay Lake Tower.

Good luck! I do think that your dream will come true. And hopefully, it won't take too long for DVC to announce the start of sales.

[shortypots]

I am going to agree with another poster that they are going to wait for SSR to sell out. According to our rep last week, they only had 3000 pts left to sell. Of course, she lied in many other ways, so this could have been another lie.

Although, I wonder if they will even do that. They will need to offer at least developer points that people can use immediately or people will question whether or not to buy since they will not be able to use their points until May 2009 for AKV and late 2009 for KTV/BLT.

[Maistre Gracey]

We stayed at the GF once, and that was for our honeymoon in '91. It was fantastic! Now, we've never stayed at a five-star hotel, so probably didn't have a good comparison, but the staff was very friendly, professional, and we didn't feel a bit out of place. Turndown service was automatic, valet was prompt and courteous, and we had bathrobes in our room.
I'm glad somebody here agrees with ME!! :teeth:

We stayed at the GF RPC two Decembers ago. We always thought it was a great resort for Christmas, so we figured it was our duty as Disney enthusiasts to give it a try.
We *thought* we were going to be sorry. We *thought* we were going to feel the snobs looking down on us.
After all, that's the impression we got when we visited.

To our surprise, there was no snobish attitude to be had. Every person we came in contact with, whether a CM or guest, was just a regular person. We chatted with many people at the RPC lounge, and they were no different than any other Disney resort... Kids jumping on the furniture and all.

Bell sevices were great, as was one of the managers who helped us with our Christmas tree.
We were impressed enough to book there again for this coming December.

As far as comparing it to the Four Seasons and other quality hotels..
The GF may not have the refinement in many areas, but they DID have the Disney Magic. Again, before we stayed there we would have guessed there was no Magic.

Give me the Grand Floridian ANY DAY over the Four Seasons, or any other non Disney hotel.
I wouldn't have said that two years ago before I stayed.

This comes from a person who spends 160+ nights per year in hotels all over North America and Caribbean. :smokin:

MG