We just bought last summer with Bay lake Tower, 175 pts. We generally go in Sept for 10 days to 2 weeks. That is least expensive time to visit and it isn't crowded at all. Unless Disney is running a crazy special, if you are careful about when you visit (last 3 weeks of sept., first half of Dec.) you shouldn't have any trouble getting what you would like. ESPECIALLY if you can have enough forthought to book reservations 6-7 mos. out. We normally book about 2 mos. out but we also own with Bonnet Creek, so to be fair we have a back-up. I will start booking our vacations at the 7 month mark because we like staying on Disney property.
If you buy through Disney, they only offer 1 (maybe 2 resorts if your lucky) for you to buy into. My husband and I sat down and did the math and buying through Disney was the most cost effective. We had the option to buy into AKL and BLT. We Bought with Bay Lake Tower simply because they have the cheapest dues. Since that is what we were going to be paying for the next 50 years, we wanted the cheapest they had. As far as how many points to buy, you really need to think about when you like to travel and what kind of room you want. If you wont have extended family with you every visit then a studio would probably be just fine for you and your partner. Also we bought through Disney because it came out cheaper (believe it or not) because you have a longer contract time on the newer resorts and lower dues. It came out to like 67.00 a pt with BLT and 83.00 a pt with Saratoga Springs. Also financing was cheaper and easier through Disney VS resale. Your credit score (699 or lower is the higher rate, 700 and above is the lower rate, or at least it was last summer.) is what would determine if you buy all upfront or buy minimum points now and add on later. If you have a fico score of 699 or lower, buy the 160 pts (minimum buy in through Disney) and add on later at the lower interest rate. If you have the 700 or above score then if they are offering a good deal then buy what you need then. Hope this helps out a little. Enjoy!!
