distressed points - what are they?

[bsusanmb]

Can someone tell me what these are? What does this term mean? Someone is selling distressed points and I want to know that there won't be a problem with them.

Thanks for helping me!

 

[Dean]

It means points that are limited in usefullness. Usually they are points that can't be banked and are somewhat near the end of the use year. If they work for you, the savings is worth it. Just remember if you have to change your plans, you may have little or no options to reuse the points you've rented.

 

[RobDoc]

Distressed points usually means that, although the points are valid to make a reseravtion, they will have some restrictions regarding that use.

In some situations, the points may be expiring soon and the member may be willing to accept a lower rate since they cannot be banked (either because the banking deadline has expired, because they were already banked points or because they are borrowed points.

Another example of "distressed points" would be if they were regained from a cancelled non-DVC option (like a cruise, WDW resort reservation, Concierge Collection reservation or Adventure Collection reservation). These points cannot be used at any DVC resort, but may still be used for a non-DVC option.

In the case you mention, someone has offered "distressed points" for rent on our Rent/Trade Board where the reservation was cancelled within 30 days of travel and are now considered "holding points". Holding points may be used for DVC reservations, but may only be reserved within 60 days of travel. In addition, they may not be banked and will expire at the end of their Use Year.

The same issues apply as for any other rental, make sure you are comfortable with the terms of the rental and with the member offering the points. The fact that the points are "distressed" in this case merely means that they have time constraints on their use. In some cases, the member may be willing to accept a lower rate than otherwise, since they must deal with different time issues than normal.

Enjoy!

 

[bsusanmb]

That sure answers my question! I really wanted to try a rental of points before I decide on purchasing a timeshare. Are resales a good deal? How does one go about financing this? I know I probably sound really dumb - but I think hearing it from those who have been through the process are much better versed than the sales people. My husband and I are in our 50's, live in PA and are annual passholders. We travel to Disney at least twice a year. He has been reluctant to buy, because he is an Air Force retiree and has the benefit of the Shades of Green. While I like ti there, it doesn't have the "Disney" feel that I love so much.

Thanks so much, I love this board and am happy I found it!

 

[bobbiwoz]

Renting would be a very good way for you to get the feel of DVC!

I hope it works out for you!

Bobbi

 

[Lisa F]

That's me with the "distressed" points! Maybe I shouldn't have used such a "distressing" word but that's how I've seen them referred to over here! Basically Doc has it right, because of their holding account status and the fact that they are expiring at the end of November, I would rather rent them out at a reduced rate than see them expire. Oh, and I know renting can be nerve wracking (I did it once a long time ago!) but hopefully the fact that I am a somewhat regular poster on the DIS (though not much time lately!) will make you feel a little more confident about it. Hopefully things can work out, I love getting new members addicted to DVC!

Lisa

 

[bsusanmb]

Absolutely! I was led to this board by Mousesavers, and Mary Waring has used this forum in the past. I know this is hard to believe, and I really am an educated woman, but there are about 25 of us who were scammed on ebay by a "travel agent" who was supposed to be a Club Med rep and a Sandals rep, anyhow, there are people out thousands of dollars. I only lost $800, but was able to get the money back from my credit union. I have never in my wildest dreams thought this would happen to me. THat is why I want to become a DVC member - so trying this out is going to be great for me and to convince my husband it is the way to go!!!! Thank you, Lisa, for your help.
I hope that I can buy those "distressing points" LOL from you for our trip!
Sincerely
Susan Brown

 

[JimC]

Susan, welcome to our little community on the DIS!

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