Consdering BWV resale -- pros and cons?

[Kidanifan08]

We are AKL owners currently, but we are consider trying to find a BWV resale over the next few months. I could see us using it on alternate years with AKL or just using it to go in the fall (F&W) every 2-3 years. We stayed in the hotel side of the resort several years ago, but have never stayed in the villas. I have stayed at SSR, so it looks like the layout is about the same. I am primarily looking for reasons why owning at BWV is not a good idea, but i am also interested in the reasons why owning there is a good idea, besides the 11 month window for F&W. Of the other DVC resorts, this one appeals to us, both for the location and the current resale values.

 

[backyardponder]

Our favorite park, actually part of the park, is the International Showcase at Epcot. Being able to walk there through the International Gateway is, to me, one of the luxurys of being at BWV or BCV. It is so much nicer than being with the masses at the main gate.

Some folks complain about the length of the hallways and how long the walk is. Doesn't bother me...this is WDW and walks are long everywhere else anyway.

The 2042 expiration bothers some folks. I guess if I were younger it might bother me too, but I'll be 93 in '42 and, if I'm around, I don't think I'll care anyway!

Good Luck with your decision.

John

 

[disneynutz]

I wouldn't make my decision based on what strangers on the internet have to say. Book BWV at 7 months and see for yourself. Everybody has different ideas and tastes and for each person who loves the place there will be one that hates it.

Bill

 

[drusba]

We are long time BWV owners who went the other way and also purchased at AKL.

Pros: perfect location with ability to walk (or pleasant boat ride) to two parks and about two dozen restaurants (at parks and Epcot resorts); boardwalk view (best on site); standard views are best bargain for the location on site; (those two views most often require that 11 month window); pool is fine. Night time on boardwalk also fine.

Cons: 2042 end date, if you are younger that means something; absolutely horrible bus system, busses to MK, AK, DTD share with S/D, too often also with YC/BC, and often take a long time to show up at MK and AK. AKL bus system is heaven compared to this.

That so-called long walk down the hallway? From lobby to the end rooms at BWV takes about 4 minutes less than the walk from lobby to end rooms on north wing of Kidani. Those who complain of long walk at BWV just haven't stayed yet at AKL.

Room sizes are close to same as Jambo savanna and standard rooms.

 

[crisi]

Another con is relatively high dues. But I agree, make a reservation at seven months - it isn't impossible especially if you aren't picky - and give it a try. We were surprised that we weren't nearly as enchanted with BCV when we stayed there as I thought we'd be - and you won't know until you try.

 

[MFMont]

Pro: standard view room is cheeeeeaaaap.

Con: They go fffffaaaaaaassssttttt

 

[Caren90]

Pros:There is nothing like an early morning run/walk around the Boardwalk and to the entrance areas of two parks. It's like you own the place since no one is around (we go in the summer and the only time you can run without dying is early morning).
Cons: Boardwalk area is very lively (noisy) at night. Wait, I changed my mind, this is another pro...

 

[SusieBea]

Another con to me is the parking situation at BWV. I think it's the worst of all of the WDW DVC properties. Part of the reason for having DVC is the use of the kitchen. Schlepping groceries can be a challenge there. But there are a lot of pros.

 

[utahkennedys]

The best way to decide is to stay at both. When we were purchasing OKW 5 or so years ago, I had almost convinced myself to buy at BWV after reading so much on these boards. I am glad I visited both b/c then I knew OKW was perfect for our family and BWV was too "bustling" for my DH. After park days and on vacation in general we prefer quiet. It's a wise investment to me to stay once before you buy just to be sure.

 

[DenLo]

I really thought I would like BWV as much as I do AKV and BLT, but was surprised that I didn't. Although I enjoyed going to F&W and being able to walk there, I wouldn't stay there again more than 3 or 4 nights, that's enough nights at F&W and Epcot for me. I prefer quiet resorts and the crowds on the boardwalk between 9 to 10PM and later on the weekends, often reminded me of parks after the fireworks ended. Then the decor just is not to my taste, it reminds of a grandma's house.

I didn't mind the hallways, but we didn't stay at the end of the halls (about halfway down). But I did take advantage of the stairwells, which made it much easier to get out and reduced the amount of walking. People often mention that it's a easy walk to the International Gateway, but I noticed that many actually rode the Friendship boats. Although I have to admit that we usually could walk there faster than the boat could load and sail there as we often left the building with other guests and saw them getting off the boat as we went through the IG.

I don't think BWV is the same as staying at BWI, you need to really stay there to see how you like it. Since you asked I think you're not sure about buying there. You could rent some points to stay there, or book at the 7 month mark just to see what you think about it.

 

[DeeCee735]

We also bought the reverse. Longtime BWV owners ( still our favorite place) and added on at AKV ( second favorite resort) you should stay at BWV before you commit, thats good advice bu as far as pros and cons go, we see no cons.

Long hallways, yes, beats walkng in rain or high humidity, too long?? No, not at all, every WDW resort is big and requires walking. Hauling groceries? We have valet bring them to the room when we have the car, we're on vacation after all, so we haul nothing we don't have to!

Pros, just about everything! Close to two parks, great atmosphere, great restaurants, Jellyrolls!!! Awesome spa in the dolphin hotel, just a walk or boat ride away, lots for little ones to do, and great spots for relaxing, like the lounge, or quiet pool or your own balcony. It's in the middle of the hustle bustle but also has the relaxing features you might look for on vacation. just our 2 cents....good luck w your decision and happy planning!