Someone convince me - is the DVC worth it?

[Guapy]

I may be interested in the DVC but need some convincing. Let's say i purchase the minimum 150 points at VWL. What are annual dues and do you pay these while you are paying off the initial $75 a point? Are you better off just paying for each vacation because you are limited to staying in your home resort in the DVC because it cost more points to stay else where in the resort? These are all just some questions I have. Maybe someone can sell me on the idea.

[Richyams]

It doesn't cost more points to stay at other DVC resorts, OKW, VWL, BCV or BWV.

It costs way more to stay at the poly, GF or any other regular Disney resort.

If you are buying to stay in regular Disney resorts, Poly, GF, AKL etc, don't!! These are great options once in a while, but not an economical use of points. A two bedroom villa at OKW is less points that a standard hotel room at just about any, if not all, regular Disney resorts.

You certainly aren't limited to your home resort by any stretch of the imagination. I would say that for regular use, the stays you will use points on most of the time, will be in DVC resorts. Your home resort SHOULD DEFINITELY BE WHERE YOU INTEND TO STAY MOST.

If you visit WDW at least every two to three years and stay in moderates or above, and fully expect to do that for the foreseeable future, there is no doubt that DVC will save money.

We go every year, we have 430 points, we pay around $1400 annually in dues, we hit our "breakeven" a VERY long time ago. We stay 10-12 nights in the OKW Grand Villa every year(almost, we have cruised and done a couple other small things, two nights at the Plaza in New York City ), the OKW GV cash price is $800-1200 a night, we are paying slightly over $100 a night(dues) for an OKW Grand Villa.



we are paying slightly over $100 a night(dues) for an OKW Grand Villa

I just feel so smart every time I say that.

Dues are slightly over $3 per point at OKW, nearer $4 per point at the other resorts.

[brittsmum1998]

;) OH gosh Rich!! You are quoting YOURSELF now? :D :D :D :D

[Maistre Gracey]

Well here goes:
It is a very complex mathematical formula to figure out costs. Many people don't figure lost interest income into the cost formula. This can be a substantial amount.
If you compare studio to hotel room (apples to apples) you will likely save money at DVC.
My problem is that I have gone completely over the deep end.
I do not want studios, I want to go 2 weeks a year + 3 at VB each trip (beach cottage or 1 BR), and also do a few nights at the Poly every year.
I need a ton of points, and when you couple that with the extra food and travel associated with extra trips, well it's a lot of money.
So in that respect DVC is much more expensive for me, but of course, I am doing much more.
I would not trade DVC for the world! :cool:

[Disney Doll]

I am sure there is probably some mathematical formula to work it out, but essentially the way we justified it is that once you are done paying off your loan, you essentially get a room at least equal to(if not better than) a deluxe for whatever the cost of your yearly fee is. In general, I think the yearly fees will always be cheaper than the cost of a deluxe room at WDW for a week. Make sure you compare apples to apples.Maybe the cost of the yearly fees will be more than a room at the All-Stars, but what you get for you yearly fee blows away the All-Stars. You don't have to come uppwith that big chunk of money to pay for the room...you pay a smaller amount monthly, which to me is always easier. You have the option of staying in several different places within the Disney system(VB,HH,OKW,WLV,BCV.BWV)in addition to trading out to other high-end timeshares. If you will be going to WDW at least every other year, it is worth it.

DH and I have been members since September 1997,and have never regretted our decision for one minute.

[KNWVIKING]

Forget about the math. Bottom line is you'll get addicted just like the rest of us. You won't be able to figure out why you didn't do this years ago. You'll start breaking the year down into 11 and 7 month blocks. The word "use" and "year" will actually have meaning. You'll memorize things like AP, PAP,DW,DD,DH,AKL,IMHO, LOL,etc... You'll learn how to clean an entire 2br with just one paper towel & jog for miles in air conditioned hallways. You'll start to begin your "posts" with such phrases as " I don't want this to start an argument..." or "This isn't intended to offend anyone but...."

DVC investment isn't about money. It's about this BOARD. Look at some of the members posting totals: 6000+ for some. Can you even imagine how many threads they must have read in order to respond 6000 times ?

Seriously, it's the best money I ever spent. After I developed what is now my yearly vacation pattern, I'm amazed at how little a week in WDW actually cost me per trip.

[DeeP]

I copied and pasted the list below from a previous post regarding dues, so that you can get the exact figures. As you can see the dues difference with the $.70 difference between OKW & BWV (the highest dues difference of the DVC resorts on WDW property)comes out to be only an additional $210.00 per year more in dues for a 300 pt contract, of course a smaller contract will be less.

2002 Dues vs. 2001 Dues
OKW = $3.22 vs. $3.13 = +3%
BWV = $3.92 vs. $3.83 = +2%
VWL = $3.80 vs. $3.63 = +5%
HH = $3.49 vs. $3.32 = +5%
Vero= $4.17 vs. $3.97 = +5%

[WDWguru]

Here's how DH and I decided it was for us. We go at least twice a year and always stay in deluxe resorts on property. Putting that money toward our DVC investment - it's just the two of us, staying in one bedroom units and we own 550 points - it will pay for itself in less than 10 years, and that's including taxes, dues, etc. After that we will still have 30 years to enjoy our DVC membership for "free"! The best part is, we'll be paying exactly the same number of points for our BWV one bedroom in 20 years as we are today. I can BET you that you won't pay the same rate at ANY Disney hotel in 20 years that you are paying today.

Bottom line is, if you go at least every other year and stay in moderate or deluxe rooms, it is absolutely worth every penny. I'll join in and say what everyone else on this board has said - my only regret is that I didn't buy sooner!

[Maistre Gracey]

Originally posted by KNWVIKING
Forget about the math. Bottom line is you'll get addicted just like the rest of us...
VERY TRUE!!! :cool:
Originally posted by KNWVIKING
DVC investment isn't about money. It's about this BOARD...
HA HA!!! ROTFL!!! :D :D :D

[alsipd]

For me it is an escape from the reality that encircles me every day.

I own 150 points and I am able to get two to three trips to Disney World Old Key West at 6 days each (arrive Sun AM leave Fri PM) with a little planning and some luck with airfares.

I find that I am planning my "vacations" a year plus ahead of time. I am constantly talking about my next "trips" and all of my friends won't get involved with a "Timeshare". I have tried to explain to them it isn't like that, but they all have that timeshare mentality.

They want an investment, but what they cannot see is that an investment in money is just money; but an investment in life is an investment in yourself. I want to live as much as possible while I am here and I see the DVC as an investment in "MY LIFE", not just a property investment. I'm not a money rich man by any means or measurement, but I am rich beyond your wildest dreams in "life".

That is why I am a proud member of the Disney Vacation Club.

Sorry for the long ramblings, I think I need a "vacation".

Dennis Alsip, DVC member since September of 2000

[joepoe]

Originally posted by alsipd
For me it is an escape from the reality that encircles me every day.

investment in "MY LIFE", not just a property investment. I'm not a money rich man by any means or measurement, but I am rich beyond your wildest dreams in "life".

Dennis Alsip, DVC member since September of 2000

Dennis, I could not say it better myself. We have made a "lifestyle" decision to enjoy our home away from home with our children as much as possible. We enjoy planning, counting down to the trips, and GOING! We always have a fun trip to look forward to. It's what we do. We have never regretted buying in.

[DISNEYDEVOTEE]

To me it is all about the Quality of the accomodations. Our 220 pt contract will reach break even in year #4. During the 25th anniversary we stayed at Beach Club 2x, each time accomodations etc cost in excess of $6000, our DVC cost $13,200.

I hate it when outsiders say, "How much time do you spend in your room anyway". Well, plenty if your child is sick, or it's raining, or it's 115 out!! And my room (1 or 2 bedroom) is extremely inviting, allows a level of privacy not seen in any other Disney property (non DVC)

Going into our 4th year and we still have not seen everything. Rumor has it that there are 2 more parks planned in the next 10 years, and 15 more hotels.

Knowing that we will be visiting at least once a year there is a much more relaxed attitude.

Bob

[caverill]

Well, there are several ways to look at DVC...

- Will it save money...Depends on where you stay now and were you expect to stay in the future. If you are happy staying off-site or in the value resorts then DVC might not work for you. If you always stay on-site and either in a moderate or deluxe, then it should be a "good deal".

- How often do you expect to go...This has been stated before, but DVC really only is a "good deal" if you intend to use it at least every other year and stay in a DVC resort. DVC has a lot of flexiablity, but it really is intended to be used at DVC resort (which are some of the best on-site IMHO).

When my DW and I made the decision there were several factors that made it appeal to us...

- Vacation time - Having DVC almost ensures that we take vacations on a regular basis (this is a good thing!).

- Disney - Our past history told us we enjoyed visiting WDW very frequently and we both decided that we would continue to do so. Since we live in Minnesota and usually schedule our vacations in February, it didn't seem like we would get tired of going to Florida:).

Value - DVC is not an investment that you will make money with, but is very much an investment in yourself. Dennis made a great point...life is short, live it now! With DVC, I feel we are getting deluxe rooms for moderate prices. I calculated it out once and I figured we would be averaging $ 119 per night for the next 40 years.

Everyone has a different reason for joining, but I think it says alot about DVC that almost all members are happy with their purchase. The biggest debate isn't whether to join or not, it tends to be which home resort is the "best".

[OKWKirt]

We bought 220 points in May 1997. At that time we were going to WDW everyother year, but starting to go more often, and staying in the moderate resorts. The way I justified this was preparing a cost over a few years to see how it would pay off using two methods. The first was taking the purchase price and yearly maintenance dues and using the room rates at OKW. This gave me a break even in 5 years. I then said what if I just use the moderate rates, where we had been staying, and the break even was in 8 years. Both looked good to me. Now after 7 trips to OKW I wouldn't want to stay in anything less.

As for how did my break even turn out - well we bought 100 more points in 1999 and with my two trips this year and one more trip next year I will reach my break even point, using OKW rates. If we hadn't bought the extra points I would have broken even in 2001 - 4 years.

[jmminarik]

Originally posted by DISNEYDEVOTEE
I hate it when outsiders say, "How much time do you spend in your room anyway". Well, plenty if your child is sick, or it's raining, or it's 115 out!! And my room (1 or 2 bedroom) is extremely inviting, allows a level of privacy not seen in any other Disney property (non DVC)
Bob

Add to this the fact that those of us who go to Disney all the time know better than to do Disney Commando style. It's nice having a great room(s) to go back to during the middle of the day to relax and nap before the evening's adventures. It's also great to have nice rooms on your day(s) off from the parks in Orlando.

This 'relaxed' attitude toward doing the parks sometimes means not doing everything on a particular trip. That's OK, we'll all be back again...we own part of the magic. :)

Joe,
Who finally rode the train around the MK after 8 days in the MK over the last 5 years.

[erikthewise]

Guapy,

I very recently decided to join and would be glad to share my thoughts.
While I agree that there are many intangible benefits, most of them are also available when staying in other on-site resorts. And those of us for whom $12K is a major investment *do* need to justify it to ourselves on a financial basis as well.

I have no interest in financial models which take into account the full 40 year term of the investment. Such models are extremely sensitive to predicted interest rates, and IMO for this reason are not to be taken too seriously.

The analysis I did for myself indicates that it is reasonably likely to be a good investment over a 10-15 year span. My model was based on comparing annual dues to what you would ordinarily spend on lodging, and included historical rates of increase for annual dues and resort rates.

In brief, if you save enough on lodging each year to pay off the interest on your $12K debt, you're coming out even (actually a little better -- see below). If you save even more, you will eventually pay off the debt. If you save less than the interest, then DVC is not going to save you money in the long run.

My model showed that if you use your points wisely, you will typically pay off the debt within 10-15 years. This was based on an interest rate of 6% (my equity line is currently at 4.75% even without tax benefit) and a current lodging allowance of $200/night, a very modest amount to pay at a deluxe resort. Very likely you would end up paying more in reality, but then also you will probably not always use your points so wisely, either!

Actually even if you only break even, i.e. just pay off your interest, you would still likely come out somewhat ahead, because
-- inflation will likely diminish the value of the $12K loan over time
-- the value of your points is very likely to increase over time as the price of DVC membership increases

As to using your points wisely,
-- staying weekdays in a DVC resort is very good.
-- staying a full week in a DVC resort is good.
-- staying weekends only in a DVC resort or weekdays in a non-DVC Deluxe resort is very roughly breaking even, but you should not be using most of your points in these ways.
-- staying weekends in non-DVC Deluxe resort or any day in a Moderate resort are Death -- you are being eaten alive if you use points in this way.

Best wishes whatever you decide!

[Carl]

Take this into consideration. I didn't. Are you willing to plan your vacations a year ahead? From my initial experience after recently purchasing a resale, it appears that if you are not willing and able to plan and then actively pursue getting a booking 11 months in advance, you will find yourself out in the cold. I mean you will have paid for the initial investment plus the yearly dues and find yourself holding a fist full of points which you can not use, because there is nothing available at the time you choose to book.
Evidently there are a lot of people who are finding DVC to be valuable to them. The points they make about getting a well located and luxury resort at a reasonable price are indeed valid. However, availability is a completely different matter. If things don't work out better for me in the future, you will see MY membership for sale within a year.

[betterlatethannever]

However, availability is a completely different matter.

That's what has stopped me from buying DVC (among other things). Reading these posts where you need to call every day for each day of a vacation hoping that you can get it, link them together, and if not, get wait listed worrying about a backup plan if it falls through.

Yes, we go during the wine and food festival (very high demand time for DVC members), and also, due to work schedules, need to do weekeneds - so not the best use of points.

We made our reservations for this year's W&F festival last November.No problem. I guess I put a value on my time and mental health.

I worry about everything anyway. I know if a was a DVC member, I would be a basket case worrying about 11 month, banking, borrowing, etc. etc. etc.

One last very small thing. I don't think I would like being welcomed "Home". I'm going on vacation. Home is the last place I wnat to be reminded of.

Ed

[WDWguru]

We had the same concern re: planning. With just DH and I, we tend to do a lot of spur-of-the-moment trips. Even though we always go at off-peak times, we were worried about availability as well.

Our first trip was booked just 2 1/2 months out - for the last week in April - and we got a two bedroom and a studio at OKW with no problem at all. We also booked late October at BWV at about 8 months out - one bedroom preferred - no problem.

However, we are finding that we're having so much fun managing our points, we've got our trips planned out through the next several use years! It started out as just a way to manage the points, figure out when we needed to bank, etc. Now it's become a hobby - any time we're sitting around just chatting, we'll fire up the planning program and the points spreadsheet and start planning or re-planning trips! It's insane!

So I guess our experience has been that if you are flexible, you should have no problem getting in somewhere at some size unit when you'd like to go - with the possible exception of Easter, Christmas/NYE and July 4th. We've also found that BECAUSE of DVC, we've become planners and really enjoy dreaming about our trips and deciding when/where, etc far in advance. We NEVER thought that would happen!

[mle]

I, like most of the posters here, of course, find DVC "worth" it. However, "worth" is defined as different things by different people. Considering a "financial" analysis of DVC, IMO, is not really a reasonable way to look at it, given the reality that any factors of the analysis that are not set in stone (i.e. future WDW rack room rates, room discounts, return on investments, etc.) can be manipulated to work for or against any argument. I look at my DVC purchase as any other major ticket item "luxury" purchase. When I bought my premium grade leather sofa and recliner after years of hand-me-down furniture, I didn't do a cost analysis against other furniture offerings! I work hard for the money that I earn. My DVC purchase was an investment in myself and my family. I look forward the the enjoyment and precious memories that our DVC membership will provide us. I know that the money I spend on DVC now (equivalent to the two cruises and three "real" vacations that we have taken in the past two and a half years) will not only guarantee me quality Disney accomodations for the next 39 years, but will guarantee that I take a vacation (as, formerly, one of the many who never seem to have the "time" to use their vacation time!).

In response to Carl's post about being willing to plan your vacation a year in advance. I have first hand experience in booking a two bedroom for mid-August just about three months in advance and getting Thanksgiving weekend and NYE accomodations (high demand) just this week. I think the flexibility of DVC (as compared to other timeshares) requires some flexibility and planing on your part, as well as being aware vacancy patterns of DVC. I generally do not plan too far in advance, but I love going to WDW (I would assume that is a MUST for anyone who buys DVC!) and let me tell you, DVC/Disney gets you hooked and thinking up ways you could squeeze in another trip! I think if I were ever faced with not having all my ducks in a row, then I would be flexible to consider my other options -- change my dates, get a WDW resort room, stay in a larger/smaller room, stay at USF for the night, etc.

Obviously, I'm sold! I, like everyone else with positive feedback, am just trying to share the magic.

HTH

-emily

[DeeP]

I also would like to comment about Carl's post regarding booking at the 11 mo window or being left out in the cold. I go to WDW at least 4 times per year and very rarely book at 11 months. I go too often to plan each vacation at the 11 mo window--I would constantly be looking at a calendar and on the phone with MS, LOL! But as others have said if you can be flexible you can usually get a reservation at a DVC resort. Some DVC resorts are harder to get into at less than 11 months than others; with BWV, VWL and I am sure soon to be BCV the hardest resorts to get a reservation at less than 11 months. My home resort is BWV and yet I have been able to get a reservation there almost everytime at less then 11 months and this includes Spring break, 4th of July, Food & Wine festival and Christmas. However, I must be very, very flexible with the dates, standard vs preferred views and the size of the villa. It has been necessary for me to stay in another DVC resort that was not my 1, 2 or even 3 choice on several occasions but I still got a villa and I was still able to go to WDW! I have found what works for me is when I call MS I give dates within a range and ask MS what they have available and where. MS is great and the vast majority of times I have been very successful. I always book my DVC resort first, then submit my vacation time at work and then book the airlines. It might seem like a backwards approach to some but it works great for me and has so for quite a few years! I am lucky in that I have no restrictions when I can take my vacations from work and my family consists of 3 people so we fit in any size unit. For those that have more restrictions this method will not be as efficient. BTW, I have never gotten lucky on a BWV waitlist and I think this is because I have gotten on the waitlist with too little time before the trip and I also have never gotten a GV using my backwards DVC booking method.

[mle]

DeeP,
I kind of have the same vacation planning method that you have because I too have no real restrictions at work regarding vacation time (besides sometimes having to transmit data or remotely complete some tasks while on "vacation"! cursed technology... LOL. Like I said earliler, I work hard, above and beyondthe normal call of duty at my office. Though lately I've been really preoccupied with DVC/WDW...). I, however, usually scope out the best airfares, then check accomodations. If the accomodations suit my needs, I book them, then the airfare and then tell my office. Sometimes, DH may have a conflict with what I had scheduled, so he might end up joining us at a later date or leave earlier than the rest of us (he usually finds a way to not miss out on anything, though!). I'm happy to hear that you have been successful with this method with DVC for a few years. It just makes me that more excited about my DVC ownership. Thanks!

[TheWho]

Join DVC if you're the following person:

- likes to plan fun things like vacations
- realize that a little work upfront can get you "more than deluxe" vacation stay for 40 yrs
- want a piece of the greatest resort or family resort on the planet
- realize you get what you pay for
- like a nice tax deduction from simple vacation costs
- eliminate the "commando" WDW techique, because you're coming back
- who wants a well deserved break from the rat race every year
- want to vacation at a place that will evolve with your family, Dumbo ride today, House of Blues tomorrow
- And finally, believes in Walt's vision

Good Luck, see you on the BW!!

[Anne34]

Our reason for not joinging the DVC was due to the size of our family. We have 5 and would only be able to get the 2 bedroom vilas. When we inquired about these, it seemed they were often sold out. We are willing to go during down times, but it has never worked out forus.

[llp479]

Anne 34, we are also a family of 5, usually traveling with 6, and have never had a problem booking a 2bdrm. Our 8/14 - 8/24/02 trip to OKW was booked at the five month window without a problem. We've been members since '98 and have never had any problem with availability, and have booked trips with as little as a four month notice and gotten a 2bdr at BWV.

If that's your only reason for not joining DVC, I guess I would question who told you a 2bdr was hard to book. If you were trying to book a cash reservation, remember the inventory Disney has to book is very small.

As to the original question, only you can decide if a DVC purchase is "worth it". As for me, hands down best purchases we ever made!

[legalsea]

This has been a very interesting thread.

My two cents: I considered DVC but decided against it. My main reason: I enjoy traveling to different places (I leave for a Baltic Sea cruise in two weeks). During the past few months that I've read these boards I noticed that many of those who are DVC members literally never go anywhere but DW. Their children are never exposed to different cultures, or apparently ever go to those other parts of the USA that should be seen. Instead, every vacation is to the same place: Disneyworld. I enjoy DW for a three night weekend, and have even been there twice in the past three years, but I finally decided that I did not want to go there repeatedly and to the exclusion of other vacations for the next 40 years.

I know I'll get flamed for this, but there is a whole wonderful world outside of DW. If you want nothing but DW vacations, then DVC may well be a good option for you, if you can readily afford it. If, however, you think you might want to eventually travel elsewhere, then I would decide against it.

[Granny]

legalsea...you may indeed get flamed for your comments, but I hope not. I'm sure there are some who will take your comments to insinuate that DVCers are narrow-minded with no sense of adventure and new experiences. Like I said, I hate anyone getting flamed for honest opinions so I hope you are not.

We have taken our children to several other vacations besides Disney and after years of that, I finally asked them where they wanted to go this year? Orlando.

Where do you want to go the year after that? Orlando.

How about in five years when you are both in high school? Orlando.

We still make other small trips but for us vacation is more about being together in a relaxed atmosphere than it is about broadening our horizons. We will surely do other trips in the future, but will always look forward to a quality vacation each year in Orlando. I say Orlando, because the kids enjoy Sea World, Busch Gardens, the beach, Discovery Cove, etc. It's just a good location for us.

But to each his/her own. DVC certainly isn't for everyone. We are very pleased with our decision, however.

[Richyams]

According to MS, the two bedroom units are the last to go.

They told me that the order was

GV gone first
Studio next
one bedroom close third
two bedroom last



If I want Italy, I go to the World Showcase, I want the rivers in the midwest, I go to River Country, I want winter, Blizzard Beach, I can see animals, nostalgic America, Tomorrow, the old West....I want the Baltic Sea, I just figure out what country its near, go to that World Showcase country, turn to the lake and I am there!!!!!

[TheWho]

I don't think people that join DVC only go to WDW. IMHO, these folks aren't particulary rich, they just tasted a great resort at a favorite vacation destination of millions (I think some 40 million visit WDW every year).

In my case, when the kids get older, I plan to go to the BW every other year. On the non WDW years, I can't wait to show the kids the Grand Canyon, West Coast of the USA , Hawaii and Europe. By then, my lodging at WDW will be free (except for the dues) and maybe the kids will be old enough to let old Mom and Dad play some golf or have a slowly eaten dinner.

I'm not flamming either, I'm just making the point that DVC members are proactive people who are passionate about traveling and creating family memories. It's this same passion that will probably nudge us to explore the rest of the world someday.

[mle]

Legalsea, just my two cents, but I would imagine that most posts are about trips to WDW because this is a Disney forum!:D

However, I have read many posts about other member trading out for other locations or utilizing their points for the concierge collection (five star hotels in various cities, both in the US and abroad), and of course, for DCL. Many posters even own other timeshares, for the sake of diversity. I mainly bought into DVC because my parents are in FL, but they are about an hour+ drive from the Orlando area. To go Central FL for multiple days, while trying to economize by staying at their house, just took some of the fun out of it. So now I figure my trips to FL will begin with visiting my parents and end with staying at DVC. My family and I, of course, love going to WDW, but we also love to travel elsewhere. My daughter has a goal of visiting every state; she's about a third of the way there and she's only 11! We also hope to travel to Europe and Asia. We've also been bitten by the cruise bug (RCC Voyager class ship) and expect to do that occasionally. Whether or not we will make the trips with the aid of DVC remains to be seen. We also bought knowing that WDW and the surrounding area is a good place for East Coast families to plan large family reunion-type gatherings, as there is something for everyone and the airfare is reasonable. My abundance of upcoming trips reflect me using my ten nights complimentary stay that I received as a purchase incentive. Most of my points this year are going towards a two bedroom to take my MIL to WDW in August, after I pick up my kids from their summer with my parents. Then I squeezed in a two night trip to follow after Thanksgiving with my parents (it's those damned PAP's talking!). I agree that there is a whole world, outside of the World, just waiting to be explored (but there is also still so much in WDW and Central FL that we have yet to explore!). DVC is just one facet of my family's vacation plans.

[HookdonWDW]

Originally posted by legalsea
This has been a very interesting thread.

My two cents: I considered DVC but decided against it. My main reason: I enjoy traveling to different places (I leave for a Baltic Sea cruise in two weeks). During the past few months that I've read these boards I noticed that many of those who are DVC members literally never go anywhere but DW. Their children are never exposed to different cultures, or apparently ever go to those other parts of the USA that should be seen. Instead, every vacation is to the same place: Disneyworld. I enjoy DW for a three night weekend, and have even been there twice in the past three years, but I finally decided that I did not want to go there repeatedly and to the exclusion of other vacations for the next 40 years.

I know I'll get flamed for this, but there is a whole wonderful world outside of DW. If you want nothing but DW vacations, then DVC may well be a good option for you, if you can readily afford it. If, however, you think you might want to eventually travel elsewhere, then I would decide against it.

Not flaming, but a different perspective:

We have joined DVC, and we take multiple trips to WDW each year (we live within a half-day commute). Our entire family cherishes the many "Disney Memories" we have created over the years. This doesn't mean, however, that we deprive our children of cultural and travel experiences outside of Disney. Our children have travelled throughout North America, Hawaii, and many European countries. We are currently planning a trip to England for next summer, after our oldest graduates from high school.

We don't look at Disney as our only vacation experience, just as a STABLE vacation experience. When I was a child, our parents took us to Cape Cod for 2-4 weeks every summer. I look at this as our "Week at the Beach". It's time for our family to share something that has become a tradition to us. We hope that they will look back on these trips as fondly as we look back on our trips to the ocean.

[joepoe]

Originally posted by HookdonWDW


Not flaming, but a different perspective:

We have joined DVC, and we take multiple trips to WDW each year

We don't look at Disney as our only vacation experience, just as a STABLE vacation experience. When I was a child, our parents took us to Cape Cod for 2-4 weeks every summer. I look at this as our "Week at the Beach". It's time for our family to share s
something that has become a tradition to us.

Our kids are 8,8 and 5. We have been taking them to Disney since they were 2. Right now, it is perfect for us. As they get older we will want to explore America with them when they are old enough to appreciate and remember it, and we will still be able to go back to Disney!

[legalsea]

Valid points, all!

To clarify: My main point, to the original poster (Guapy) who asked for someone to convince him to buy into the DVC, is this: if you need convincing, don't do it. Those who bought into this timeshare have varied reasons for doing so, as we have seen.

Let me say this: in my twenty year legal career I have consistently advised clients to avoid timeshares. Timeshares far too often turn into a money pit, and never seem to work out the way the salesmen portray them.

However, I looked into DVC because I am convinced that Disney is totally legitimate. That is how I happened upon this board several months ago, doing research. For whatever reason I decided against participation. That, of course, does not mean that it is not right for others.

Yet I say again: anyone who says "convince me" has already made up their mind, at some subconscience level, against doing it; yet they are still torn, perhaps because they don't trust their judgment, or because they have become emotionally tied to the thought of belonging, of having people (all strangers) say "welcome home" upon their announcement of having bought in.

"Buyer's remorse" is bad enough when you, at a whim, purchase some trinket costing a few dollars. It is devastating when you have spent at least $15,000.00 (including costs) and, in addition to paying off said loan, are legally bound to pay additional money each and every year (in the form of assessments) until such time as you finally sell your timeshare (always at a loss; I have never seen anyone make money).

The only ones who should jump into this pond are those who are truly committed to swimming.

[wdwcrazy]

Legalsea,

I recently bought in to DVC and have waited 5 years to do so. Not because I was unsure but because I waited for the location of the perfect home resort. I am very happy with our purchase of our "timeshare". As for the assumption that people who are DVC members only go to WDW is very close minded. My husband and I travel at least 5-8 weeks per year, with at least 3 trips to WDW. We have travelled all over the world and plan to continue to do the same even now that we have purchased our DVC membership.

Looking at the DVC concierge collection and the interval exchange program promises some great resort hotels and condos in various places around the world using our DVC points. This in itself is actually a bonus to us. After paying $250-$350 a night at luxury hotels at both WDW and other places we can now use our DVC points to pay or defray the cost for these trips. Our last week away cost us almost $4000 in accomodations and could have been traded for with 18 months worth of DVC points. So just because people on this board post more info about trips to WDW don't assume that they are only travelling there.

My 2 sisters are members of DVC and both have travelled in Europe, Canada, cruises, and adventure vacations using their DVC points. Knowing them the way I do - these trips would not have been taken without the use of the DVC memberships.

While DVC may not be for you it can and will open the door to new cultures, sights, journeys and adventures both in and outside the gates of Walt Disney World.

I wish you well on your Baltic Cruise and hope you enjoy your adventure as much as my husband and I do each and every time we travel.

[Granny]

Originally posted by legalsea
Yet I say again: anyone who says "convince me" has already made up their mind, at some subconscience level, against doing it; yet they are still torn, perhaps because they don't trust their judgment, or because they have become emotionally tied to the thought of belonging, of having people (all strangers) say "welcome home" upon their announcement of having bought in.
I guess I have to disagree that anyone who posts "convince me" or "give me reasons to join" threads necessarily has consciously or subconsciously decided DVC is not a good idea.

I think I posted a similar thread almost a year ago. It's a typical fact gathering tactic that we've seen often on this board. "Tell me why I should or should not join" opens the information flow and encourages ideas that might not have come to me while making my decision. I knew the posters here were biased but it isn't hard to separate facts from opinions.

I think everyone here agrees that DVC is not for everyone. But just because someone says "give me reasons to join" doesn't mean that person is leaning away from DVC.

And I'm glad the responses to your comments have been as even tempered as your comments were.

:)

[SamSam]

I think you are assuming a great deal when you state that people on this board never go anywhere else. We've been to Mexico, England, France; we also have been to many other areas in the states. Among them; Yellowstone, Colorado (many times), New York City, San Francisco, Sacramento. and on and on and on. The being a Disney board, it is only natural that what is being discussed are Disney Vacations. That does not mean that the people on this board go no where else.
With our kids grown, we go to WDW at least twice a year, but we only go for 3 - 5 day trips. We then also take many other short trips to other locations and at least one long vacation.

[OKWKirt]

Legalsea, I think everyone has discussed the fact that we do other things besides WDW but as has been said many times on this board if you don't go to WDW at least everyother year DVC is not for you. Therefore, the posters here do go to WDW very often, along with other places, and this makes DVC a good way to do this. My reason for posting to you is the point you made about 20 years of advising people against timeshares. This may be taking this thread off the subject but maybe not if the original poster, and others, are looking for info. If DVC tried to sell me a fixed week every year for a specified unit I would never have talked with them. Timeshares have evolved into a very flexible way of prepaying great vacations, allowing you to pick the number of nights you want, the type of accomodations, and the location. I now have three timeshares, all on a point system, all top notch accomodations (which is what I am looking for), and all able to trade to great locations throughout the world in the best accomodations.

[crisi]

We decided to join DVC when we decided to become every-other-year WDW travelers....

Our kids are 2 and 3. We won't be back until they are 4 and 5 (a little over a year from now) and plan on going every other year. In our off years, we intend to travel other places. We have relatives in Colorado and Utah to visit. A trip to Cooperstown on the list. Washington DC and San Francisco. My husband was born in Amsterdam and would like to get back. One child is from South Korea - we have at least two trips planned there to make sure he is exposed to his birth country. A trip to Ireland and the UK, and one to Italy. A good chance of me hauling the family along on a business trip to Thailand. So basically, once the kids are old enough, one year it will be Disney, the next - some international destination.

Will we save money with DVC? - well, if we didn't have it, we probably wouldn't go to Disney every other year - and we wouldn't buy park tickets and airfare and souveniers. But once we decided to go every other year, it became a fairly good value. And it will get us on vacation every other year with a "low fuss" vacation (Korea not being a low fuss kind of destination).

I have the opposite take of Legalsea. If people come here saying "convince me" they've pretty much already decided to do it. This ain't the place to hang out if you want to be talked out of it.

I don't think its a good idea for everyone - even those who go every year or every other year and intend to stay in deluxe or moderate hotels. I think there is a side to the equation that says "should you even be going every year or every other year -- or maybe you should get those credit cards paid down first - maybe stick some money in the bank?" We have friends who I'm sure are going to take the DVC leap - they fit the "every year, deluxe" criteria....but since every WDW vacation is put on their ever expanding credit card balance, I don't think DVC is the wisest choice for them right now.

[Guapy]

Wow! I got a lot of replies. Thank you all for all the information! I was already pretty convinced about becoming part of the DVC. It was more about convincing someone else. I make trips to DW pretty regularly, 3 trips in the last 3 and a half years. It sounds like it makes a lot of sense. After taking a look at what I just spent staying at the Wilderness Lodge for five nights and what annual dues would be, it really seems like a good deal. And it is also a guarantee that my family and I can stay in great accomodations for a long time to come. Anyway, thanks again for all your help. And you have got to love lawyers, thanks for the input from legalsea as well, as we share a career.

[PamOKW]

Let me say this: in my twenty year legal career I have consistently advised clients to avoid timeshares. Timeshares far too often turn into a money pit, and never seem to work out the way the salesmen portray them.

Legalsea -- While this was true at the start of your career, you must realize that there are many more options in the timeshare industry with a variety of price points. There is an article in today's New York Times about the growth of the business. It mentions that five years ago the "point" system timeshare was 10% of sales -- today it is 60%. Also, companies like Disney, Hilton, Marriott, etc. being involved has reduced the risk of finding your condo going to ruin or being hit with large assessments.

There are all kinds of people in the world. Some like to travel abroad and take on new adventures. Some never leave home. Some go to the same cabin in the woods every year for generations. And, some of us return again and again to WDW. There are also those with enough time to spend regularly at WDW and to travel the world as well. DVC owners really can't be pigeon-holed as non-adventurers.

[erikthewise]

If I thought that DVC was a "timeshare", I would have absolutely no interest in it. There are so many differences between DVC and a traditional timeshare that I don't think using that word is helpful. Actually, "vacation club" describes it nicely!

It also seems that the proportion of members who bought DVC on the basis of a sales pitch is much smaller than with traditional timeshares. In fact a significant percentage seem to have bought without hearing a sales pitch at all.

[Doc and Family]

Hello Guapy,

I faced a similar decision as yours. Last year my wife wanted to join. I put her off. This year, we looked at it again, and this time I did some math. For us, it made good sense. First, it will cost you some money, but, hey, a vacation to Disneyworld is not free.
If you are happy staying in the All-Stars or Port-Orleans, then it might not be worth it, if that is all you are joining for. But, if you want bigger, nicer rooms and tons of flexibility, it will be worth it. We will break even in only 3 years (dpepending on what you compare the cost to), after that, we can stay for the cost of our annual dues, and go twice a year. Our dues cost less than we typically spend on one trip's accomodations. Anyway, for us it is a good deal, but it may not be for everybody.
P.S. also from New Orleans (at least close to it)
Good Luck with your decision,
Glenn

[Carl]

1. I think that people who ask to be "convinced" are already almost sure they want to purchase, not, as someone wrote "already made up their minds they don't want to purchase." I asked a bunch of questions before I bought, and until I had almost already decided to buy, had not asked much about DVC.
2. As I already posted here, so far I have NOT been happy, because I have found that the times I want to go to WDW (value season - Nov. Dec.) are the MOST difficult to get for DVC. I was NOT aware of this before I purchased.
3. For what you get - deluxe resorts and for VWL, BCV, and BWV, good locations - it is worth what you pay in dues per year. I am figuring on getting back most of what I paid for the initial purchase. (I may have an unpleasant surprise waiting for me there, too.)
4. DVC is NOT as limited as a regular time share. At least, when I could not get the dates I wanted for my points, I was able to trade the points for a regular Disney resort, all be it at a high penalty.

[jimmytammy]

I have read some of the replies and cant give you an honest answer on the money deal because we have been members for less than 6 mos still havent used it yet going in dec. what I can say is I could kick myself for not joining 1 yr. ago when we first considered it we could have joined for $65 pt. instead of $75 we even added more pts. before they increased I am able to put in extra time to help offset the costs so we arent dipping into living expenses if you have been bitten by the disney bug go ahead and take the plunge just think of the wonderful vacations years down the road plus if you have any questions the veterans on here can give you educated answers believe me I have come up with a few myself good luck in your decision

[Lisa P.]

If I thought that DVC was a "timeshare", I would have absolutely no interest in it.

I think you do yourself a disservice by denying the fact that DVC is indeed a timeshare. The industry has changed. There are now many points-based timeshare companies, which offer flexibility in the use of timeshare, varying length of stay, size of villa and time of year - Hilton (HGVC), Fairfield, WorldMark, BlueGreen, Peppertree/Equivest and others. These are timeshares and so is DVC. Some of them preceeded DVC. I'll post a separate thread with this info - it's interesting to those who like points-based timeshare.

In recent years, some "vacation clubs" have sprung up which are points-based or weeks-based programs offering NO home resort, NO recourse if you cannot book your desired stay, NO actual ownership in a real estate property or deed and only a vague contract of possible privileges over a period of years. Some of them have turned out to be terrible scams. They take advantage of Disney's (and other programs') use of this term (vacation club) to avoid the stigma associated with timeshare.

A rose by any other name... ;)

[dianeschlicht]

We first looked at DVC in 1993, but didn't purchase until 1997. We bought 230 points and then added on another 150 in 1999. I think we figured out we broke even on the first points by the 4th year, but didn't bother to figure it out for the add on, since we were so grateful that we finnally saw the light and purchased!! Our only regret was not purchasing when we first heard about DVC in 1992!!! We feel like we wasted a lot of money between 1992 and 1997!!

BTW, we do go other places with our DVC too!!! Just returned in May from a 3 week trip to Hawaii that included one week on a DVC exchange!:bounce:

[trishy]

When we were trying to decide on DVC, we had to think hard about whether Orlando was going to be our *permanent* vacation. We've traveled to many places around the U.S. and Canada and with 3 kids felt WDW was a great place to visit every year. We are AVID Disney fans, though. We have always had Disneyland AP's and have gone so many times throughout the years, I can't even give a number - certainly in the 3 digits at least. We look at the value for our family of 5; the comfort with the size of the rooms; the numerous options to entertain our family; the availability to go elsewhere if desired (We cruise on DCL also); mostly the commitment to vacations that we have made. We know we HAVE to vacation - don't laugh at me :p - I mean it. Too many people let time slip by and don't realize until it's too late that the kids have grown, the clock ticked away, and they didn't spend that much needed family time. It's just not the same at home - playing ball in the yard, flying a kite, riding a bike - all nice, but not the same as the magic you feel at the *World*. How many times have people said "$5,000 for a vacation or we could use that money to fix up the paint, get a new fridge, get that carpet replaced...." We are committed and are thankful at the end of each vacation that we have the DVC to take this time while we are all able to.

[erikthewise]

[If I thought that DVC was a "timeshare", I would have absolutely no interest in it.]

I should have said a "traditional timeshare", with all the associated negative stereotypes. Including, but not limited to, high-pressure sales tactics, little or no vacation time flexibility, uninspired design, indifferent location, and a tendency to get rundown because members don't want to pay for maintenance.

I learned to avoid timeshares at a young age, and that was a long time ago. Apparently much has changed in recent years. But I will stick with saying I would not be interested if it were not Disney, or if it were operated as a traditional timeshare rather than as a vacation club.

[bongo59]

My answer is quite simple.....I first venture to wdw about 15 yrs ago........i have been there 24 times in 15 yrs......had the oppurtunity to buy DVC 5 times......dating back to 1991........did not do it that time or any other........until June 14, 2002.......I bought 400 points at the BCV.........and why do I think I am dumb.......I did the math via reciepts i had...... 24 trips cost me 78,000 dollars in hotel fees........I could have bought 1500 points with this cash at OKW in 1991.......The people who post here are did not procrastinate like i did.......they have enjoyed the vacations and made a lifestyle choice for their families.......it is the best way to do disney and if you dont believe it stay at the Grand Floridian one week at Disney rack rates like I have and did for ten yrs......you'll get why you need to buy ASAP!!!!!!