Booking resorts on short notice

[pixiewytch]

I am looking to book a vacation at WDW for the first week of January. I understand that this is supposed to be one of the slowest times of the year and yet I am already finding that most of the deluxe resorts have no availability. I am expecting a lump sum of money and won't be able to put money down on a room until December. Is this unrealistic? Will there be anything available, particularly in deluxe resorts for the first week of January with less than a month's notice?

 

[fla4fun]

The first week of January is usually busier than the rest of the month, between the holiday leftovers and the Disney marathon. If your dates are flexible, I would try later in the month. Also, check at 45 days out (the last date packages can cancel) and 5 days out (the last day room only ressies can cancel).

 

[Lollipop's Mom]

I think it will be busier than normal that first week because the kids don't go back to school until the 7th this year. I had Jan 2-12 booked and flight prices were outrageous. I changed my dates to Jan 5-15 and I noticed alot more availability at the resorts, and my flight prices went way down!
With less than a months notice, I don't know. I guess if you are not picky where you say, something might be open.
Can you find one night's money as a deposit to hold just the room? Sell a few things on ebay quickly and get that $ together?

 

[pixiewytch]

Thanks for the tips. I was trying to do this around my son's winter break which is only until January 6th. I figured spring break would be even busier or I would have to do it around the weekend which would mean higher rates.