AP stays with DVC

[LakeAriel]

For next year I will be short three points for my reservation (2 one- bedrooms)
six nights. Instead of renting or transferring I am thinking I will pay a AP rate for say Friday night and Saturday night. How soon in advance can you make those AP reservations? I mean I know I have tpo wait for an offer. Is this what most people do on the weekends when points are high?

 

[dianeschlicht]

The trouble with waiting for AP rates, is that they may never materialize for the resort you are looking for. DVC resorts often do not have AP rates, so I guess I would do a points transfer instead.

 

[LakeAriel]

I have no illusions that I'll get to stay at the same place but I'm willing to move.Any moderate or deluxe hotel would be OK. They would transfer the luggage right? That way I'll even have a handful of points left over. I am booking WVL (home resort) and going to try to get BCV at the seven month window during a slow season.

 

[CarolMN]

If the Best Rate Program is extended to include your dates (it's goes to 2/15/06 right now), you could use your AP to book an AP-discounted room online. There is a nonrefundable deposit of one night required at booking and you have to reserve your room at least 120 days prior to check in.

I used the BRP to book one night at CSR - couldn't get into the BWV for that night (I waited too long to book it). Got an AP rate of just under $105 (incl tax). Rack rate is $149 (incl Tax). There weren't any discounted rooms available for any of the deluxe or Home Away From Home Resorts when I was looking (except SSR studios).

Best wishes -

 

[LakeAriel]

Thank you Carol!
You got a good rate! I don't fully understand the non refundable deposits yet though. If something more appealing is discounted you are locked in 3 months in advance. I'm sure it will work out somehow, just doing some advance (year) planning!