I think the clown should make BWV's value go down, not up! I've seen many posts from people who won't stay at BWV or won't swim in the main pool because of the clown, but I can't remember seeing anyone who said they stayed there because of it!
Another alternative is to look for Black Friday/Christmas deals on Disney gift cards (there's a thread on the budget board that can help). That has been a good deal the last few years (15-20% off).
I've found another way to make even more - if your grocery store offers fuel perks, buy Disney gift cards with your favorite credit card. Then use the gift cards to pay the dues. My store typically runs a promo around Thanksgiving for double fuel perks. I got 3 free tanks of gas last year plus reward points.