The first thing to be aware of is that the "value" options at Disney (BWV/BLT Standard View rooms, VAKL Value rooms) tend to go FAST. Cheaper options that remain on the table a little longer - rooms at OKW and we will see about SSR - that change is recent enough that we don't know how the points difference will shake out in terms of bookings). Owners get frozen out of those rooms before seven months most of the year.
The second thing to be aware of is that
DVC points offer the most value - by far - at DVC resorts. Cruising, Adventures by Disney, trading into a hotel or a non-Disney resort - they are not cost effective. When we bought, we bought enough points to use at Disney - and they pay cash for other trips - including
DCL and ABD.
Perks can be removed at any time - and the only perk currently worth it for buying direct is arguably ticket discounts. Those discounts aren't worth a complete direct purchase - and personally, I don't think they are worth the 25 point add on people have been doing.
If you spend the money to by Poly direct, it should be because you intend to stay at the Poly for the majority of your trips.
Before you buy, understand the impact of your home resort (dues, booking window). Understand availability - you will not buy a non-Epcot resort and then stay in an Epcot resort for Food and Wine every year and DVC busy time is late September to mid-January.
