Disney preferred hotels vs. other hotels

[MBowers]

We are going to Disney next May and I'm trying to figure out the benefits to staying at one of the Disney good neighbor hotels (or whatever they are called). We need two rooms that will sleep six people each. In previous years, we've always booked through getawaytoday.com but this year I've read about the good neighbor hotels. We're specifially looking at the Staybridge Inn and Suites. So, what are the benefits at staying there? And how do I book that particular hotel and get those benefits? Do I need to go through an agent or can I book myself?

Thanks for any help!
Monica