? about buying into DVC...

[ss0414]

I've done as much "homework" as I can possibly do regarding purchasing into the DVC. I have a couple questions, though, that I am confused about.
(1) I prefer more spontaneous trips rather than planning 11 months out. However, I prefer the BW and BC over the other DVC resorts. How do I decide between buying more points for the dollar, i.e., a resale at SS/OKW vs. BWV/BC for more $ per point?
(2) What is the minimum points Disney sells directly?
(3) I found another site besides the Timeshare on the net. There prices are cheaper than the Timeshare for resales. However, I understand the Disney has the option of 1st right of refusal, so it seems silly to even attempt a purchase at a substantially lower price than the average?

I would appreciate clarification on these matters for anyone who has a minute. The opinions on this board have been valuable and I thank you for your time.

 

[CarolAnnC]

1) Buy where you want to stay. If you don't, I guarantee you will be looking to buy more points in the Resort you want to stay in before you know it. If all your trips are spontaneous, then DVC may not be for you. It is hit or miss. You may find something last minute if you are flexible with resort and room choice. Or you may not.

2) 160 points for new members.

3) Making cheaper offers for DVC contracts will not get you through ROFR. The seller won't care as they still get their money, and the agent (timeshare company) also gets paid. So it behooves you to offer the "right" price. The Timeshare Store is well versed in how to make offers that will pass. I have bought through them and recommend them as well.

 

[browniemtb]

(1) I prefer more spontaneous trips rather than planning 11 months out. However, I prefer the BW and BC over the other DVC resorts. How do I decide between buying more points for the dollar, i.e., a resale at SS/OKW vs. BWV/BC for more $ per point?

If you are into spontaneous trips where you buy in wouldn't matter. After 7 months points at any resort can be used at any of the DVC's. But since BWV and BCV are highly demanded, getting what you want may not happen especially during the busy DVC times, but you may get lucky.

(2) What is the minimum points Disney sells directly?

The minimum Disney sells direct is 160 points. They also sell the "Sold Out Resorts" if there are points in their inventory from ROFR. Resale contracts can be much smaller.

(3) I found another site besides the Timeshare on the net. There prices are cheaper than the Timeshare for resales. However, I understand the Disney has the option of 1st right of refusal, so it seems silly to even attempt a purchase at a substantially lower price than the average?

That is a good assumption. If the price is too low Disney will scoff up the points and resell them.

DVC is best if you plan ahead. Although spontaneous trips are great, do not expect to get what you want. I'm sure with all the DVC resorts you will get something in the ballpark though......Good Luck

Brownie

 

[ss0414]

Thanks guys.
Not all of my trips are spontaneous...I do see the logic in buying where you want to stay, I read that recent board regarding that issue.
I could plan out 11 months or 7; however, admittedly, I have never stayed at OKW or SS. I think I'm going to take a few nights at each over the next few vacations and then decide. I always rent a car, and I like the 1 Bds. After thinking about it, it would probably be stupid to limit my choices without experiencing the other 2 resorts. (Stayed at AK, hated it.)
Take care and thanks so much,

 

[epicureangirl]

I'm certainly no expert (I'm a new buyer) but have lurked long enough to take a stab at this...

1. If you prefer more spontaneous trips and do not take advantage of the 11 month early booking for your resort, then you will have no advantage to book BW or BC over the other DVC resorts. If you know you will likely book within 7 months of your trip, you would likely be better off going for more points (for les $$ per point) through a resale contract. You would have to be more 'flexible' with which resort you booked, or room type for that matter, with short notice. However, do factor in your yearly maintenance fees into the equation, over time these can have an impact on the final price. SSR has a great price for maintenance fees, doesn't it!

(2) What is the minimum points Disney sells directly? - Currently 160.

(3) I also found a contract I liked with another site, but also make sure you factor in the closing costs (and can be negotiated with the buyer, ie they pay the closing or split it with you). The asking price is just that, asking... you can negotiate so don't be worried about putting in an offer -- you never know. As for ROFR, there is a great post on this site tracking the offers that passed ROFR and those that didn't. I scanned the passing (and not passing) prices of the resort I was interested in to get an idea of what was a reasonable offer AND what would be likely to pass ROFR. I am still waiting to hear if I passed, but am hopeful that my homework paid off.

Good luck!