Are all point programs the same?

[jockotaco]

We currently own at VGC so I am very familiar with how the DVC program works. We are debating about adding on at Aulani or moving towards a HGVC on the Kohala coast. I like the points vs a fixed week. Are most programs the same? And for those of you that own outside DVC what is the benefit of direct vs resale?

 

[bwvBound]

Things to watch out for as you shop points-based timeshare:

• Min/Max length of stay (Example: Must book 7-nights if in high season and more than 9 months from travel.)
• Various reservation windows (Example: When are you permitted to book partial week stays?)
• Pre-determined arrival days (Example: 7-night stay must begin with Fri or Sat check-in.)
• Housekeeping fees/tokens (At what point would you start paying housekeeping out of pocket?)
• Banking, Borrowing, Transferring, Renting guidelines
• Fees for calling the reservation center

 

[bwvBound]

More specific comparisons ...

* DVC vs Worldmark the Club

• Worldmark has "red season" rules that impact minimum reservation length. If booking red season, expect to book minimum 7-night, maximum 14-night stay IF booking the reservation more than 9 months from travel.
• Minimum stay: 2-night minimum if a Friday or Saturday night is involved.
• Every booking consumes a housekeeping token. If you exceed your housekeeping token balance you will pay a housekeeping fee based on unit size.
• Worldmark does not have a "home resort."
• Worldmark owners may subscribe to RCI and/or II for exchange purposes. Both are separate membership fees -- but carry full "direct membership" (vs DVC's Corp membership) benefits
• Worldmark unit layouts vary widely by location. Some properties have Studio/1BR/2BR/3BR/4BR units ... some might have only 2BR or 3BR units. (DVC is far more "uniform" in expected layouts and amenities.)
• Similar to DVC, a reservation may be for any size unit and may start on any day of the week.

 

[lilpooh108]

I believe HGVC charges for reservations outside of your home resort. They also charge a program fee. You should ask on TUG.