Question about DVC

[zeitzeuge]

Ok, so I'm not going to try and use all the acronyms y'all use. I try to read some of the threads and I'm at a total loss and just end up passing them by. :rotfl:The 90 day reservation thread gave me a headache trying to figure it all out.

But one I do know is DVC. All I know is that it's a sort of timeshare for WDW vacation properties. And yes, I do know it stands for Disney Vacation Club. ;) But I'm clueless as to how it all works. A friend tried to explain it to me and he didn't do a good job at explaining.

We go to Disneyland (and hopefully soon to WDW again) at least once a year and possibly twice if we can swing it. I don't know a thing about DVC regarding the average cost total or per month, how it works and the big question, how often do you need to go to one of the parks to make it cost effective? When you go to the website, they don't really give you any specific information and I'm really trying to avoid calling them because I'm not good with sales people. I tend to buy anything they suggest. My previous partner and I had a timeshare and he regretted it.

Can someone give me a quick synopsis? And please, don't use acronyms. :lmao:

[jlewisinsyr]

The first question is what type of resorts do you typically stay at? If they are deluxes you should definately look into DVC.

[zeitzeuge]

The first question is what type of resorts do you typically stay at? If they are deluxes you should definately look into DVC.

We're kind of in between. Not the cheapest, but not the most expensive either. We range kind of in the middle, depending on DL or WDW. We've stayed at 150 a night at the lowest to 300 a night at DLH for our upcoming trip.

[rpmdfw]

Well, the big difference between DVC and a traditional timeshare is that instead of owning a specific week in a specific unit, you own points which can be used toward a variety of vacation options. Some will cost fewer points, some will cost more. So each year you have a point allotment that you can spend however you want to. It's also possible to bank the points from one year so you can "save up" and use two years worth of points for a really "big" vacation.

The points that you own at your "home resort" will typically be the ones you can book the earliest.

Even though we live in Orlando, we've used our DVC points to stay at Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, and last year we used the points to house my family and members of our wedding party as well as booking the hospitality suite we used. We also booked our honeymoon cruise on points.

Next year we're looking at staying at the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco on points as well, so it's not just Disney owned properties that are available to you.

Needless to say, we love it!

[rpmdfw]

It is possible to book Disney moderate and value hotels using points also. It can sometiems be a great way to get more days at Disney out of your points.

[zeitzeuge]

Hmmm ok. How often do you need to go to make it cost effective? Or is that really not a valid question?

Is it best to buy directly from Disney? I've seen sites where you can buy out someones membership.

[soulmates]

It is possible to book Disney moderate and value hotels using points also. It can sometiems be a great way to get more days at Disney out of your points.

Now THAT I did not know...wow! :thumbsup2

[rpmdfw]

Hmmm ok. How often do you need to go to make it cost effective? Or is that really not a valid question?


That's a tough call. Since we already live in Orlando and sometimes use points to stay at WDW, that makes it MUCH more cost effective than for someone who has to fly and buy tickets.

I hate to say it, but you're going to have to contact Disney, figure out how much it'll cost you to buy the amount of points you want and how much the maintenance fees will be. Then compare that to how much you're currently spending on trips and see how it works for you.

Is it best to buy directly from Disney? I've seen sites where you can buy out someones membership.

That's another toughy. Scott bought into DVC before we met (three months before, actually) and he went through Disney. I don't know anyone who went through an outside re-seller so I don't know how they operate, or if it'd be a better deal.

I'd also suggest asking these questions on the DVC board. They're probably a great resource for this kid of thing.

[soulmates]

Hmmm ok. How often do you need to go to make it cost effective? Or is that really not a valid question?

Is it best to buy directly from Disney? I've seen sites where you can buy out someones membership.

We're pretty sure we're going to buy next year. DP has researched the DVC thread and we have friends who are owners. To us, it makes sense. From what I see, the closing cost, out the door right now, is $ 1800 for an average of 160 points, which is the lowest you can purchase. Then you pay your monthly payment. Sounds good to us, great investment for us and our famlily! :hug:

[jenn&nelsonrego]

We typically go once a year and that makes it worthwhile for us. The one bedroom rooms can be very expensive. Someone I know paid just under $500 a night for one. They said it was worth it for their big family to have the full kitchen.

We have used our points to cruise as well, although, that is not the best use of points.

There are other benefits as well. For example, last year we purchased annual passes (almost said AP's :scared:) for the first time. They were $100 off the regular price. You can also get a 10% discount at certain stores, special edition pins (that right there makes it worth it to you -doesn't it?), and really cool things in the mail that make you want to go RIGHT NOW!

[zeitzeuge]

Thanks! All of this helps. I have a feeling that it's probably not the route we would want to take. At least at this time. I've always been curious and want to stop at the DVC counter, but like I said, I'm a sucker for a salesperson. I swear they see me coming.......

Based on how much we go, and from what I've seen of the cost, I don't think it would be cost effective. If we lived nearby, I think I would do it in a heartbeat.

Love the hotel you're staying at in SF next year. One of SF's best. We'll be staying at Hotel Whitcom (http://www.hotelwhitcomb.com/) for Pride in a few weeks and I'm so excited.

It's so fancy schmancy. :)

[rpmdfw]

Love the hotel you're staying at in SF next year. One of SF's best.

I know! I've stayed there before. Back when I worked for the Fairmont Dallas.

[zeitzeuge]

We typically go once a year and that makes it worthwhile for us. The one bedroom rooms can be very expensive. Someone I know paid just under $500 a night for one. They said it was worth it for their big family to have the full kitchen.

We have used our points to cruise as well, although, that is not the best use of points.

There are other benefits as well. For example, last year we purchased annual passes (almost said AP's :scared:) for the first time. They were $100 off the regular price. You can also get a 10% discount at certain stores, special edition pins (that right there makes it worth it to you -doesn't it?), and really cool things in the mail that make you want to go RIGHT NOW!

PINS!!!??? *sigh*

Now I might have to look closer at it.

[yasuern]

this link has a lot of info

http://allears.net/acc/dvc.htm


also info here but more technical

http://www.mousesavers.com/dvc.html

They have recenlty re allocated the points so that a FRI or SAT stay is less and Sun-thurs are more points per night but FRI and SAT night stays are still more than Sun-Thurs. Also when they list DVC resorts - GCV are also part of DVC and a Hawaii DVC is being finished soon(don't know the date sorry or which island)

I bought our 1st contracts through Disney 300 VWL points at I beleive $74/pt? - then we stayed at OKW and fell in love with it and bought 2 OKW contracts through a resale for $62-64/pt respectfully through The Timeshare Store which sponors the DVC disboards.


If I could do it all again I would have done all resale.

Dues are billed to you every year - I usually receive mine in December - and are due I beleive Jan 15th(no later than Feb15th? so booking and use privilages are not suspended and late fees are not tacked on)


The current dues for each DVC are per point and are in this post below. Also some charts others have made

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2162019&highlight=dvc+yearly+fees




Now if you followed any of my ramble you are an extremely smart person:thumbsup2


I do ramble - Basically DVC is a timeshare with no specific week(s) that you have to vacation - you purchase points ONCE and they are renewed each year on the 1st of your use year(should be month) ie: you have a June use year so each year On June 1st your points renew - you can also bank any or all your current use year points for the 1st 8 months following June 1st - deadline for banking in this case would be Jan 31st each year. You can also (my favorite) borrow points from next years allotment of points - so if you buy 200 pts but a ressie would be 220 you can borrow the needed 20 points from the following years points - but once borrowed points must be used in the use year borrowed into and cannot be banked.


I think if you vacation at WDW or DL at least 2x/year its worth it.

You can also trade out points to go to many world wide destinations - HOWEVER i find it easier to just rent my points out and take the money from the ressie I make for another and book what I want - but this is another can of worms;)

I am sure I have left much out - but many folks here and on the DVC boards can probably answer your ?s clearer than I.

Sue:goodvibes

[jackskellingtonsgirl]

Now THAT I did not know...wow! :thumbsup2

You can NOT use DVC points for Value resorts. :)
You can use them for Mods and Deluxes. The thing is, it costs MORE points for a Mod room than for a DVC studio!

[rpmdfw]

You can NOT use DVC points for Value resorts. :)
You can use them for Mods and Deluxes. The thing is, it costs MORE points for a Mod room than for a DVC studio!

Oops!

Sorry about that! I just know that I can book all the hotels at Disneyland, Dinseyland Paris, Disneyland Hong Kong, and Tokyo Disneyland, so I assumed that all WDW resorts were available.


Can you tell that Scott usually deals with the technical stuff about the DVC points and I just look at the pretty book and plan where we're going next? :laughing:

[soulmates]

I wouldn't think you could use them for Value..but then, we never stay Value...not a snob, its' just TOO many little ones for me. Now that mine are older, I feel I've earned the right to stay somewhere with some luxury ;)

I would use them to stretch a trip longer at a moderate though, that is veryyyy good to hear!

[jenn&nelsonrego]

I wouldn't think you could use them for Value..but then, we never stay Value...not a snob, its' just TOO many little ones for me. Now that mine are older, I feel I've earned the right to stay somewhere with some luxury ;)

I would use them to stretch a trip longer at a moderate though, that is veryyyy good to hear!

Maybe it is b/c Nelson and I are sloth-like and stay in our rooms more than most, but the biggest draw for me with DVC is the rooms. The studio is ok, but I love, love the 1 bedroom. It is nice to have a "home" to come back to, not just a room. I enjoy cooking in the kitchen (probably b/c it is better laid out than mine) and being able to do laundry in the room is awesome (dont have to pack as much - more room in the suitcases for souvenirs).

If you looking for luxury, the bathroom in the 1 bedrooms (and anything higher than that I assume) has a whirlpool tub! I can spend hours being Ariel in there! :goodvibes

[soulmates]

Maybe it is b/c Nelson and I are sloth-like and stay in our rooms more than most, but the biggest draw for me with DVC is the rooms. The studio is ok, but I love, love the 1 bedroom. It is nice to have a "home" to come back to, not just a room. I enjoy cooking in the kitchen (probably b/c it is better laid out than mine) and being able to do laundry in the room is awesome (dont have to pack as much - more room in the suitcases for souvenirs).

If you looking for luxury, the bathroom in the 1 bedrooms (and anything higher than that I assume) has a whirlpool tub! I can spend hours being Ariel in there! :goodvibes

I've poured over all the DVC photos and saw those bathrooms, they ARE big and veryyy nice. We're just doing the studio this time. I decided to spend less on that, so that we could do alot of other things. Next year we are taking my 2 daughters, so we'll def do a 1 room. I can't wait to get there!!:banana:

[zeitzeuge]

My head is swimming. I feel dizzy and must sit down. :laughing:

We're actually the type to show up at the parks at 7am and not leave until midnight, never going back to our rooms during the day unless one of us needs to change clothes for whatever reason, like 400% humidity in Florida.

We use our rooms to do nothing but shower and sleep in. Ok, not everything but you get the idea. ;) Although a nicer room might entice us to go back to the room more. But the whole time I would be thinking, "what am I missing out there!!???"

As you can see I flip flop and can never make a decision.

[rpmdfw]

As you can see I flip flop

;)

[jackskellingtonsgirl]

We liked the regular rooms at AKL. The AKV studios (in Jambo house) are fine for us, because they are almost exactly like the rooms. There is no way we could buy enough points to afford a one bedroom every year for 14-16 nights! :scared: We use the room for sleeping and showering - we are not "hang out and relax in the room" people. If I am not progressing towards being OUT of the room I get very fidgety.

So we stay in the studio. If DH needs to do laundry he goes to the Member laundry room where you don't pay. I bring enough clothes so I don't have to do laundry. ;) Yes, my luggage fees are scary.

[jenn&nelsonrego]

We are the exact opposite and I think that is one of the other advantages of DVC. You don't have to rush, rush, go, go to see everything b/c you know that you have the opportunity to go back at any time. You have years of Disney (and non-Disney :scared: vacations) ahead of you.

Honestly, we could not afford to go on vacation without DVC. I am sure we would find a way, but...

These are some pictures of our 1 bedroom at OKW (Old Key West) last year. We love OKW, it is among the (if not THE) cheapest on points and it is adorable. We stayed for a week last year after our Disney cruise.

The bedroom:
http://i445.photobucket.com/albums/qq180/jennrego1929/2008%20DCL%20WDW/2008Vacation772.jpg

The bath is split. You can see the bedroom through the "window" next to the whirlpool. One side of the bath has a sink/mirror and the whirlpool and the other has a sink/vanity, stand up shower, and the toilet.
http://i445.photobucket.com/albums/qq180/jennrego1929/2008%20DCL%20WDW/2008Vacation773.jpg
http://i445.photobucket.com/albums/qq180/jennrego1929/2008%20DCL%20WDW/2008Vacation775.jpg

I love not going home with loads of stinky, sweaty, dirty laundry!
http://i445.photobucket.com/albums/qq180/jennrego1929/2008%20DCL%20WDW/2008Vacation776.jpg

Kitchen and Dining Area
http://i445.photobucket.com/albums/qq180/jennrego1929/2008%20DCL%20WDW/2008Vacation771.jpg
http://i445.photobucket.com/albums/qq180/jennrego1929/2008%20DCL%20WDW/2008Vacation770.jpg

A patio that we could get to from from the dining area and the bedroom
http://i445.photobucket.com/albums/qq180/jennrego1929/2008%20DCL%20WDW/2008Vacation778.jpg

[jenn&nelsonrego]

Almost forgot the Living Room area
http://i445.photobucket.com/albums/qq180/jennrego1929/2008%20DCL%20WDW/2008Vacation768.jpg
http://i445.photobucket.com/albums/qq180/jennrego1929/2008%20DCL%20WDW/2008Vacation769.jpg

and my favorite part (although, I know it drives some people crazy :scared:)
http://i445.photobucket.com/albums/qq180/jennrego1929/2008%20DCL%20WDW/2008Vacation766.jpg

[Disney_Villain]

I'd recommend a good primer:

DVC For Beginners (http://dvcnews.com/content/view/186/160/)

To oversimplify, the cost per point averages around $100 (although you can get them a lot lower than this), the average annual dues per point are around $5, and an average week in a studio in almost any resort is around 100+ points.

You can dig through DVCNews for more specific information than that. It would help if you looked at points charts for resorts you're interested in to see how many points you'd need for your length of stay in specific types of accomodations.

[soulmates]

My head is swimming. I feel dizzy and must sit down. :laughing:

We're actually the type to show up at the parks at 7am and not leave until midnight, never going back to our rooms during the day unless one of us needs to change clothes for whatever reason, like 400% humidity in Florida.

We use our rooms to do nothing but shower and sleep in. Ok, not everything but you get the idea. ;) Although a nicer room might entice us to go back to the room more. But the whole time I would be thinking, "what am I missing out there!!???"

As you can see I flip flop and can never make a decision.

Your like I was..very comando approach. Taking advantage of ALL the amenities of the resort, actually gives you time to relax and enjoy your trip. :love:

[jackskellingtonsgirl]

Animal Kingdom Villas studio (Jambo house)

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z168/ejcbrown/Disney%2008/bf3545bc.jpg

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z168/ejcbrown/Disney%2008/05046e55.jpg

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z168/ejcbrown/Disney%2008/65baf7f0.jpg

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z168/ejcbrown/Disney%2008/fc5c0cfa.jpg

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z168/ejcbrown/Disney%2008/bccf70ed.jpg

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z168/ejcbrown/Disney%2008/42118a32.jpg

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z168/ejcbrown/Disney%2008/fdbf71b9.jpg

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z168/ejcbrown/Disney%2008/b541e707.jpg

http://i195.photobucket.com/albums/z168/ejcbrown/Disney%2008/159b4f2b.jpg

[soulmates]

WOW!! That was a NICE studio!! Very nice for the money!!:thumbsup2

[jenn&nelsonrego]

WOW!! That was a NICE studio!! Very nice for the money!!:thumbsup2

:thumbsup2 That is a great studio! Like the decor too!

Looks roomy!

[zeitzeuge]

;)

Dirty......

We liked the regular rooms at AKL. The AKV studios (in Jambo house) are fine for us, because they are almost exactly like the rooms. There is no way we could buy enough points to afford a one bedroom every year for 14-16 nights! :scared: We use the room for sleeping and showering - we are not "hang out and relax in the room" people. If I am not progressing towards being OUT of the room I get very fidgety.

So we stay in the studio. If DH needs to do laundry he goes to the Member laundry room where you don't pay. I bring enough clothes so I don't have to do laundry. ;) Yes, my luggage fees are scary.

You sound like us. I swear I'm like a 5 year old when we have to go back to the room for whatever reason. I pout. I can't wait to get back out there.

Last year Steven made me take a break so we could nap and rest our feet after 3 days of going commando in the park. I lasted one hour.

[jackskellingtonsgirl]

WOW!! That was a NICE studio!! Very nice for the money!!:thumbsup2

:thumbsup2 That is a great studio! Like the decor too!

Looks roomy!

Thanks! If we didn't need the sofa pulled out for DS to sleep on it we would have MORE than enough room. As it is, we keep the sofa pulled out the whole time.

The studios at Kidani are actually a few feet bigger. I am waitlisted for Kidani for the first 4 nights this year. After that we move to concierge, which is only available in Jambo.

[soulmates]

We're SO excited about staying at the WLV, I wouldn't care if they put is in a tent!! :lmao:

[donald...really]

Go to a sales presentation next time you are on disney property. Just tell them up front that you aren't able to buy at this time, but you want to see what the details are so you can start making a plan to buy in the future. They are VERY low pressure, will explain everything to you, and treat you like a VIP. And the rooms are gorgeous in person (the new villas at the Grand Californian are AMAZING!!!).

[soulmates]

Go to a sales presentation next time you are on disney property. Just tell them up front that you aren't able to buy at this time, but you want to see what the details are so you can start making a plan to buy in the future. They are VERY low pressure, will explain everything to you, and treat you like a VIP. And the rooms are gorgeous in person (the new villas at the Grand Californian are AMAZING!!!).

That is my plan!!! How long have you lived in Newburyport? I have family there.

[wallyb]

And please, don't use acronyms. :lmao:

Honey ... I feel ya! :hug:
I get all tripped up in the acronyms too. ::yes::

[jackskellingtonsgirl]

We're SO excited about staying at the WLV, I wouldn't care if they put is in a tent!! :lmao:

Yes, you would care. There are snakes at WL!!! :scared1:

OK, so FL is teeming with snakes, but WL is the only resort where one went across the sidewalk right in front of me. :scared:

[zeitzeuge]

Yes, you would care. There are snakes at WL!!! :scared1:

OK, so FL is teeming with snakes, but WL is the only resort where one went across the sidewalk right in front of me. :scared:

Oh see........now THAT's reason enough for packing up and going home.

[soulmates]

SNAKES??? :scared1: Ahhh, we're not paying for snakes!!:lmao:

[zeitzeuge]

I don't like those little Gecko's either. They're everywhere in Florida.

Ok fine, I don't like any sort of amphibian.

[jenn&nelsonrego]

SNAKES??? :scared1: Ahhh, we're not paying for snakes!!:lmao:

Don;t worry. You don't have to pay for them. They are free! ;)

[OrlandoMike]

I can only tell you two things about DVC.

#1 I deal with a lot of "owners" on a daily basis, and they all tell me they absolutly love it, and would not do it any other way.

#2 There is no way I would go on one of those tours....well not with my credit cards in my wallet!

Most of the people I deal with love the flexibility of the point system....being able to bank and borrow. They also eat up the perks (Discounts, pins, advanced reservations etc.).

Good Luck with your decision.

Oh and if you do take the tour, from my understanding is it is VERY low on the pressure aspect. They give you the info and send you on your way to think about it! :thumbsup2

[zeitzeuge]

I can only tell you two things about DVC.

#1 I deal with a lot of "owners" on a daily basis, and they all tell me they absolutly love it, and would not do it any other way.

#2 There is no way I would go on one of those tours....well not with my credit cards in my wallet!

Most of the people I deal with love the flexibility of the point system....being able to bank and borrow. They also eat up the perks (Discounts, pins, advanced reservations etc.).

Good Luck with your decision.

Oh and if you do take the tour, from my understanding is it is VERY low on the pressure aspect. They give you the info and send you on your way to think about it! :thumbsup2

Thanks Mike. I have a lot of reading to do. Maybe I'll speak to someone when we go in September. Gives me time to research.

[OrlandoMike]

Maybe I'll speak to someone when we go in September.

I know if you do it here in Florida you get free Ice Cream! :cool1:

[zeitzeuge]

I know if you do it here in Florida you get free Ice Cream! :cool1:
Well that's worth the trip right there. :)

[jenn&nelsonrego]

I know if you do it here in Florida you get free Ice Cream! :cool1:

That is reason enough right there to plunk down a couple grand! :thumbsup2

We got fast passes to Test Track... this was right around when it first opened and getting on it was like getting on Soarin now!

[Disney_Villain]

We use our rooms to do nothing but shower and sleep in.

Do you use the resort pools at all?

If you think you might use them, choose a DVC home resort that has quiet pools. Being a gay couple without kids, we really don't enjoy the "main" pools which are always filled with tons of screaming children. You may not enjoy it as well.

PS: Note that the Animal Kingdom Villas do not have quiet (aka satellite) pools.

[OrlandoMike]

Why do you call her DVC?

Her name is Deevy See! :rotfl2:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1DV6r1Nk54&feature=related

[zeitzeuge]

Do you use the resort pools at all?

If you think you might use them, choose a DVC home resort that has quiet pools. Being a gay couple without kids, we really don't enjoy the "main" pools which are always filled with tons of screaming children.

PS: Note that the Animal Kingdom Villas do not have quiet (aka satellite) pools.

We do on occasion, especially late night to cool off and wind down.

I don't know.....I tend to LOVE LOVE LOVE tons of screaming children around me, peeing in the pool. :rolleyes1

Oh and thanks for the DVC for Dummies link. Lots of good info!

[Saxton]

I've got 3 DVC accounts - I bought OKW and BWV through resale and then AKV directly from Disney. I love it!!! Lately I'haven't been able to use it much because of my Dad's health issues but I'll always say it's the best decision I've made. A while ago my brother was coming to town so that meant I could get a break, I called member services and EVERYTHING at WDW was booked solid (spring break). The nice woman I spoke to asked if I had ever thought about going to Disneyland and within a matter of minutes I was booked for the Grand Californian. I've taken friends and family and everyone has loved it.

They have a unit open at the Boardwalk if you want to check it out - it's right near the Big River Grill.

[jlewisinsyr]

We're pretty sure we're going to buy next year. DP has researched the DVC thread and we have friends who are owners. To us, it makes sense. From what I see, the closing cost, out the door right now, is $ 1800 for an average of 160 points, which is the lowest you can purchase. Then you pay your monthly payment. Sounds good to us, great investment for us and our famlily! :hug:

I think you're missing a "0" in your number...

[DVC~OKW~96]

Another DVCer chiming in. ::yes::

We bought in 1996. I honestly don't remember how much the points were, but I think they were somewhere around $50 per point "back then." :teeth:

I've heard of good deals from resale places, but remember. DVC has the right of first refusal (ROFR) and if an owner tries to sell her/his points at too low a price, DVC will buy them back. They keep the value up that way, eh? ::yes::

Also, you can bank or borrow points. That means that if you are not going to use all or part of your points in a given year, you can bank (again, all or part of them) them into the next use year. Depending upon when your use year starts will drive the timing for banking the points (you have to bank by a certain time in the year).

If you want to use more points in a given year than you actually have for that year, you can borrow from the next use year. That will of course, leave you with less points for that upcoming year.

The most points you can use at any given time are three year's worth. It's done like this. In a three year span: Year one, bank all the points into year two. When you are in year two, borrow all the points from year three to use for a vacation (safari anyone) in that second year. Got it? :teeth:

You can use the points in many places throughout the world. ::yes::

It's incredibly flexible, and with some small exceptions I've had incredibly good luck booking spur of the moment. ::yes:: Years ago when Hurricane Jorge was headed for the west coast of FL (we were living in Ft. Myers) we wanted OUT! I called DVC and got a villa at BWV. Then I called back and changed the reservation (increasing the time)!!! All in a few days time/notice.

Same as this weekend. Spur of the moment and voila, we are staying at OKW for Gay Days. ::yes::

OKW is our home resort. It's the original vacation club. There was only OKW and BWV when we bought in, and BWV wasn't finished yet. Funny too, BWV is my least favorite DVC. :guilty: Not that I refuse to stay there, but I like the others much better for many reasons (one being that hideous clown pool).

OKW has some lovely quite pools that are quite private. ::yes:: :teeth:

We are looking forward to staying at Kadani Village in October, and to our annual trek to Vero Beach in August.

Even for all my disallusionment with Disney over the years, I'm still a dyed in the wool lover of DVC. ::yes::

Oh, one thing that some folks don't like. The contracts end. There is the right of inheritance, but the contracts will come to an end and if you are still around, you'll no longer be a DVC member. I think ours expires when we are in our 80s. :scared: I'm not really too worried about it!

Do take the tour. Seriously, there is absolutely no hard sell. The guides will tell you themselves that DVC sells itself. They explain the program and leave folks to make up their own minds.

Our guides name is Betty Prykryl. There are loads of good guides though, so you can easily turn up and learn all about it. Plus, the model villas are wicked!!

[rpmdfw]

Why do you call her DVC?

Her name is Deevy See! :rotfl2:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1DV6r1Nk54&feature=related


Wow! I like the sounds of that rooftop lounge! :thumbsup2

[wallyb]

Why do you call her DVC?

Her name is Deevy See! :rotfl2:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1DV6r1Nk54&feature=related

She forgot to imagine the snarky barkeep! :rolleyes:

[DVCajun]

You can NOT use DVC points for Value resorts. :)
You can use them for Mods and Deluxes. The thing is, it costs MORE points for a Mod room than for a DVC studio!

Yeah, it's not exactly cost effective to use your points to stay at Disney anywhere other than the DVC resorts. And, having stayed in many of the resorts, I'm sorta like, "why would I want to stay anywhere else??" The DVC resorts are SHWEET!!!!!

It has been a worthwhile investment for us ... members since 1998. Our typical plan is to visit WDW twice a year. Of course, we recently bought a camper so we could vacation with our four-legged babies, so we're renting out points a bit. But I still wouldn't change a thing!! :goodvibes

[PghLybrt]

SO we bought into Bay Lake. The way I figure 3 trips in a grand villa will pay for it all ( If you figure out what out of pocket would be for that).

I have to say it was the worst decision we ever made. WHy? Becasue now i want to buy more!!!!! 100 points and a free cruise!!!:banana::banana::banana:

WAy off topic......

Does any one know if I get ESPN at Bay lake? I can't miss the Steeler game while I am there!!! :worship::worship:

[zeitzeuge]

SO we bought into Bay Lake. The way I figure 3 trips in a grand villa will pay for it all ( If you figure out what out of pocket would be for that).

I have to say it was the worst decision we ever made. WHy? Becasue now i want to buy more!!!!! 100 points and a free cruise!!!:banana::banana::banana:

WAy off topic......

Does any one know if I get ESPN at Bay lake? I can't miss the Steeler game while I am there!!! :worship::worship:

BLT is the new tower next to the Contemporary correct? It seems to be a very reasonably priced DVC especially the yearly dues. Is 100 points enough do you think for a start and if so how many nights stay can you get a year for that many points?

Why I'm having SO much difficult understanding this stuff is beyond me.

[rpmdfw]

BLT is the new tower next to the Contemporary correct? It seems to be a very reasonably priced DVC especially the yearly dues. Is 100 points enough do you think for a start and if so how many nights stay can you get a year for that many points?

Why I'm having SO much difficult understanding this stuff is beyond me.

I seem to recall that 150 points is the miminum amount you can purchase. But I could be wrong

[zeitzeuge]

I seem to recall that 150 points is the miminum amount you can purchase. But I could be wrong

I think I read 160 points was the minimum buying directly from Disney, but that you can buy lesser amount of points through a broker?

[DVC~OKW~96]

Whew. It's been so long since I bought in, I don't remember the details, but I think that 100 points for someone with no other points won't "work."

Minimum purchase used to be 150 and as you say, may have risen to 160. That's representative of a studio in the lowest season for a week, I think (but could be wrong so don't quote the "season").

BLT is the most expensive, point and dues wise I believe.

If you bought 100 points through a timeshare resale, I don't know how that would work with Disney, as DVC doesn't recognize "resales" only that you are a DVC member.

Seriously, you need to do the tour. ::yes::

[jackskellingtonsgirl]

Minimum point purchase is 160 through Disney. Certain properties have minimum 100 point ADD ONS for current owners. We got an e-mail yesterday for a 100 pt. add on at BLT.

As far as points, BLT points are the most expensive. The dues are not very high right now because the resort is brand new.

Vero Beach and Hilton Head have the highest annual dues. So high, in fact, that the dues will out pace what you saved on per-point buy in within several years!!:scared: (Meaning you can buy points at Hilton Head relatively cheap, but what you save will quickly be eaten up by high annual dues.)

It IS less expensive to go resale, you can choose pretty much ANY of the DVC properties as your home, and you can find varying amounts of points.

We chose to go through Disney directly because the finance paperwork from the resale place made my head hurt. :headache: Th e-mail was like 12 pages long and relatively complicated. (From my point of view.)

When we bought our AKV contract I just phoned our guide (we toured the summer before) and told him we were ready. He got some basic info and BOOM! we were owners. The loan qualifying was more like a credit card app. as opposed to some HUGE document.

We just got our new DVC book this week. I must say, they are PROUD of those Grand Californian villas! The points are INSANE!!! :scared1:

[SeattleRedBear]

Why do you call her DVC?

Her name is Deevy See! :rotfl2:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1DV6r1Nk54&feature=related

OMG!! Sign her up for RuPaul's next season!! :scared1:


OK, here's some other considerations.

Even if you're park commandos and generally don't go back to the room during the day, having a kitchen allows you to take care of some meals yourself (for you, I'm thinking primarily getting breakfast out of the way so you can hit the parks running, but it can also be a money saver) as well as having drinks/snacks/whatever (for me, all those screaming kids seem not quite as bad after a gin and tonic poolside). We like to travel with friends (I think I've managed to deflower about a half-dozen Disney virgins...do I get a toaster yet?) and it's just way more enjoyable for us to all be in one space together rather than in separate hotel rooms.

With the construction of GC Villas at DLR, we've really been thinking about purchasing (west coast, we go to DLR more), but I have to get out of some major debt before doing so. I'm hoping to pick up some resale at some point. My understanding is that with resale you have all the same rights and privileges as if purchasing from Disney, and looking at Resale by DVC, prices looks pretty reasonable.

You might consider renting DVC for an upcoming trip and then see whether you think it makes for a better experience or is just the same for you as staying at one of the hotels. You're the only one who can judge what's best for you. Good luck!!

[ToddyLu]

Hey! Zeitzeuge I just PM'd you with our purchase info so you could have an idea of how much of an investment it is.

[zeitzeuge]

Thanks for all the advice everyone!

I've got a better understanding of what's involved and the cost. I think it might be something we'll look into after one year. This year is about paying off bills and getting into our first home. I think that might take priority. At least I know what to be expecting when we do decided to buy, which I think we will.

[TuckandStuiesMom]

OMG!! I think I've managed to deflower about a half-dozen Disney virgins...

WOW, SRB! We just say we're takin' a newbie... your version sounds much more inneresting :rotfl2:

My daughter and I are renting points for our Christmas trip and are SO excited. We are staying @ Wilderness Lodge Villas in a studio (I am kicking myself a little bit about not going for a one-bedroom but that's pretty much water under the bridge at this point -- ooooh -- inadvertent Wilderness Lodge pun there).

Anywho -- I'm just hoping I don't like it TOO much. :rotfl2: Mr. Chuck (NOT a Disney fan) would probably never forgive me if I bought in...

[PghLybrt]

BLT is the new tower next to the Contemporary correct? It seems to be a very reasonably priced DVC especially the yearly dues. Is 100 points enough do you think for a start and if so how many nights stay can you get a year for that many points?

Why I'm having SO much difficult understanding this stuff is beyond me.

Well we already have 320 , I am looking to add on another 100. (I was told that would happen! I just did not believe it.) For us it actually did make sense. We usually stay at the YC. We also go every year and like to take people with us (this year it is mom and the nephews). We looked at animal kingdom but we do not like the bus ride and the annual dues is higher (Because of the animals).

So this year what we did... 3 night in a 1 bedroon at BLT and then 6 nights in a two (Both bay view). I used all of my points for this year and had to borrow around 80 from next year.

The amount of points was the hard part for me too. I sat down with the charts and figured out when we usually go , what type of room we would want and then figured out about how many points that would be.

[PghLybrt]

OMG!! (I think I've managed to deflower about a half-dozen Disney virgins...do I get a toaster yet?)

:laughing:

I think with Disney you just get a refillable mug, no toaster!

[jackskellingtonsgirl]

Did someone say "refillable mug"? I have PLENTY of those, if someone has missed out.

By my calculations, we should have 15 of those mugs. Unfortunately we only have 13 mugs and 12 lids. But there are only 3 of us, so 13 mugs (12 with lids) ought to be enough. :rolleyes1 And I might have left one at work. If I did, then we have 14 mugs and 13 lids.

I know this because DH doesn't like to wash the mugs. Or the lids. He also doesn't like to put them in the dishwasher. Ordinarily the kitchen is not my domain, but the mug situation was out of control. ALL of the lids were just sitting in a big bowl of soapy water. I just spent the last 20 minutes scrubbing, rinsing, and drying mug lids.

So now not only am I qualified to answer DVC questions, I am also quite an expert on mugs.

[SeattleRedBear]

:laughing:

I think with Disney you just get a refillable mug, no toaster!

Hey, I'd take the refillable mug (never said I wasn't cheap!)

Besides I gave my newbies (more PC than virgins, I suppose) their money's worth. History of the park, facts about each attraction, the disney magic. I make sure they get a dole whip, a monte cristo at blue bayou and an apple pie apple every time. And if they only have three hours, then slam, bang, thank you ma'am, 5 e-tickets with a lecture about the monsanto house of the future and how the audio-animatronic figure and omnimover ride system were brought into production for the 1964 new york world's fair.

Just a gigolo....

[jenn&nelsonrego]

BLT is the new tower next to the Contemporary correct? It seems to be a very reasonably priced DVC especially the yearly dues.

I was talking to one of the DVC guides last year and he mentioned that the dues at BLT are lower because they share some of the operating costs with the Contemporary.

I own at Hilton Head, it is scary to hear that the dues are anticipated to go up that much... Maybe I should consider selling those and buying in elsewhere... :confused3:confused3:confused3

[jackskellingtonsgirl]

Jenn, we thought about buying at HH or Vero because the points on resale were so much cheaper. BUT the annual dues are like $2 higher per point. So say you bought 100 points on resale for $60 per point. That's $35ish per point cheaper than buying for Disney. So you saved $3500. Great deal, right?

It's $200 more per year for those dues. So in 17.5 years the dues will overtake what you saved. But that is a tremendously oversimplified example.

We bought 160 points, and the HH points we considered were more than $60 each, so what we paid out in dues would have overtaken what we saved on points in like 5 years. Also, by buying at AKV we got like 49 years on our contract, where the HH contract had more years already used.

[PghLybrt]

I have a question that maybe one of you could help me out with? :flower3:
(My salesperson will not call me back, talk about no pressure!:laughing:)

Anyway
If i add on 100 points do I

1. have to add onto BLT becasue that is where i originally bought
and
2. If not and I buy elsewhere but want to use them at BLT do i have to book part of my trip 11 months out and then the rest 7 months because of the different places?
oh and
3. :) Will my use year be the same?

I assume i know the answers to these I just want to be sure.

[Saxton]

I have a question that maybe one of you could help me out with? :flower3:
(My salesperson will not call me back, talk about no pressure!:laughing:)

Anyway
If i add on 100 points do I

1. have to add onto BLT becasue that is where i originally bought
and
2. If not and I buy elsewhere but want to use them at BLT do i have to book part of my trip 11 months out and then the rest 7 months because of the different places?
oh and
3. :) Will my use year be the same?

I assume i know the answers to these I just want to be sure.

1. You can own at multiple resorts. I own at BWV, OKW and AKV.
2. The 11 month window is for the resort that you own ... that means if you own 100 points at BWV you can book 11 months in advance there using those 100 points, if you own 200 points at SSR you can book 11 months there with those points. You can combine the points but if you wanted to use all 300 points for BWV you would have a 7 month window to work with.
3. Yes, they should be able to take care of that for you. I had an April use year for OKW and BWV and when I bought AKV they were able to give me the same use year.

It's addicting, isn't it?!

[jenn&nelsonrego]

Jenn, we thought about buying at HH or Vero because the points on resale were so much cheaper. BUT the annual dues are like $2 higher per point. So say you bought 100 points on resale for $60 per point. That's $35ish per point cheaper than buying for Disney. So you saved $3500. Great deal, right?

It's $200 more per year for those dues. So in 17.5 years the dues will overtake what you saved. But that is a tremendously oversimplified example.

We bought 160 points, and the HH points we considered were more than $60 each, so what we paid out in dues would have overtaken what we saved on points in like 5 years. Also, by buying at AKV we got like 49 years on our contract, where the HH contract had more years already used.

Makes sense. But we bought in 2001, so we already have some mileage on ours... I dont know how many years we have left but I am sure (I hope) that we will add on as we go, so "losing" those first 150 points wont be a big deal in 40 years... Also, at the time we bought in, we were broker than broke... We just got engaged and were facing a wedding ($25,000 later).... So when Disney offered us $79 a point and $1500.00 off the total cost, we jumped on it.

I have never taken the time to figure it out in the way you have. For me :teacher:=:headache: But we figure that since 2001, we have more than recouped the money we spent on DVC.

It has covered:
2002 a week at the Grand Floridian for our Honeymoon
2004 a 7 day cruise on the Disney Magic and 3 days at OKW
2005 a week at Vero Beach
2006 a week at SSR
2007 a week at Vero Beach
2008 a week at OKW
and now
2009 2 weeks... one at SRR and the other at BCV (of course that is 2010's points too since we have the 14 night TA cruise next year).

Every time it was also a one bedroom room too! So that is some big $$$ savings off of rack rate over the years. :woohoo:

[YourEveryDayAdam]

If anyone is questioning whether it's "worth it" or not to buy DVC here is a thread I started with some spreadsheets and math to analyze some specific scenarios:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2137102

It ultimately boils down to this:

If you buy DVC you WILL save money if:
You go every year, every other year, or every third year.
AND you stay at deluxe resorts or you stay at moderate resorts.

If you stay at Value resorts, then you will almost perfectly break-even on the cost, but you will stay in deluxe accommodations at value resort prices.

Some rules on DVC:

It's not for last minute trips. You may get lucky and can get a long weekend or two once in a while, but you generally need to book 7-11 months in advance, especially for "peak" seasons. You MUST be able to plan, and even be a little flexible on your dates.
Peak seasons at DVC resorts are not the same as Peak Disney travel seasons. (The first couple weeks of december are the HARDEST times to book.)
You DO NOT get daily house keeping. You get housekeeping, on average, twice a week.
You will get all the full benefits of staying on-site: Magic Express, Dining Plan, Extra Magic Hours, etc.
Bay Lake Tower rooms are the most expensive to stay at "point wise". The points at Bay Lake Towers cost more than other resorts, and it costs more points per night to stay there than other resorts. However, the per-point annual dues is significantly less than any other resort and the annual dues will be the single biggest cost in owning DVC.
Definitely go for the sales pitch. They will pick you up wherever you want, and they will take you to wherever you want to go after it's done. You will likely get free ice cream, and 2-3 "instant" fast passes each for listening to the pitch. It is entirely "no pressure". They will give you the facts, will not pressure you, and they will not call you unless you ask them to.