Does DVC make sense to us?

[newddmommie]

Alright all knowing DVC folk, i need some opinions. Here's the back story; it's Dh, myself, almost 3 year old DD, and a little one on the way. We've been 3 times in the last three years and have spent close to 9 grand total on three trips. We're planning on going nov/dec of 2011 (baby has to get born and a little bigger first). That trip will be pricey too. My hubby loves staying in deluxe and we do half days at the park. Does DVC make sense for us? We love Disney and plan to go often. Let me hear it folks...

 

[ChiSoxKeith]

Sounds like you are a perfect candidate.

Remember though, the vacations will still be pricey as all you get with DVC is your lodgings. So you're still gonna spend a small fortune on air fare and park tickets.

Since you only do 1/2 days at the park, BLT sounds like the perfect fit, though. Right on the monorail for easy access to the Magic Kingdom.

 

[Twain18]

I'm commenting from the couch in the sense that I'm not a DVC member yet either (although I hope to once we have the cash) but I agree that it sounds like you're the perfect candidates since you like to stay in Deluxe resorts anyway and you're going on average once a year.

I'm not sure I'd agree with BLT as the best resort though (and again, I'm not a member, so I'm commenting off the reading/looking at pictures I've done). If you're spending 1/2 days at the park and the rest of the time at the resort, I'd look for a resort with the most to offer.

That doesn't necessarily disqualify BLT, as the decor, the lounge on top and the proximity to MK are awesome. However, I would think you should consider a few other options too, like Saratoga, which is not only a resort but also a spa and also a place like Beach Club, with easy access to EPCOT, the Boardwalk and also access to the great pool Stormalong Bay.

If I were you, I'd definitely consider buying in, but since you're going to spend a lot of time at the resort, I'd pick a resort more on the amenities and style of the resort (and perhaps dining as well!) rather than location.

 

[DVC Mike]

Yes, you're a candidate for considering DVC.

 

[javamom]

oops

 

[DenLo]

Definitely sounds like you are a candidate for buying into the DVC. And as to which resort to choose, buy where you want to stay.

 

[dbs1228]

It took us 15 years to finally figure it out, and just bought in! Always stayed at FTW cabins because of location (MK) and full kitchen. BLT is a great location for little kids, I have 3 daughters and MK is still their favorite resort and now that they are in there mid to late teens MK is the park they always end their day in (on their own now!) BLT was the perfect choice for us and we only do/did 1/2 day in the parks. Going back for lunch and a nap (kids then, us now lol) and the option to return to a park with little effort for fire works or night time activities is our type of vacation. With that being said I cannot wait to try all the resorts for different reasons! Do your research, educate yourself and I think you will make the perfect choice for you and your family!

 

[nytimez]

Sounds like you're a candidate -- BUT if you're enjoying the flexibility of going to WDW any time of year at the moment, remember that will likely change in a couple of years, when your children began school and attendance becomes an issue.

 

[disneynutz]

You seem like you could be a candidate, but you need to work the numbers. DVC will maybe save you some money on your room, but that's about all. You will still spend thousands on food, transportation, and other items.

You will also be obligated to use or loose your points every year for possibility 50 years.

For some people owning makes sense, for others, not so much so.

Bill

 

[Dean]

Alright all knowing DVC folk, i need some opinions. Here's the back story; it's Dh, myself, almost 3 year old DD, and a little one on the way. We've been 3 times in the last three years and have spent close to 9 grand total on three trips. We're planning on going nov/dec of 2011 (baby has to get born and a little bigger first). That trip will be pricey too. My hubby loves staying in deluxe and we do half days at the park. Does DVC make sense for us? We love Disney and plan to go often. Let me hear it folks...

DVC is a consideration if you only buy enough DVC points (with a ? 10-20% cushion) to just use at DVC and you don't plan to trade. DVC might save you money if you go with just studios or it will give you more for around the same money if you go with 1 BR units. If you are willing to be flexible on which resort and don't mind staying at OKW or SSR, resale will save you more money.

 

[walkdmc]

If you like to stay Deluxe, will be visiting at least once every other year, and are able to book your vacations at least 4 months in advance (that lead time also depends on when you like to travel), then DVC might make sense for you.

And, this is strictly my opinion but that's what you're asking for, it only makes sense to me if you can pay cash for it. I'm not someone who has ever taken out a loan to vacation and I don't feel any differently about DVC.

 

[newddmommie]

Thanks everyone for your opinions. I know we won't neccessairly save money by doing this.. but it's more about making the memories and knowing that we will go on vacation everyear or so. That's very important for my family. We will be paying cash as I agree with others that we don't finance vacations. We're thinking doing Boardwalk due to the proximity to EPCOT and other activities. Right now our DD loves MK but she won't be small forever.

 

[katied]

We are very happy with DVC, and we have similiar travel patterns. We have DS who is now 3, and baby #2 is expected shortly. Our next trip with be Jan 2011 at BLT.

We bought at BLT because of the short walk to MK - perfect with little ones. We do am's in the park, come back for nap time, and then may head back to the park in the pm, or else swim, relax, etc.

We did not buy into DVC to save money though. We probably spend the same as the Deluxe visit each time because we book a 1 bedroom (so we needed to buy more points than just a studio stay would cost). It's great to have a kitchen and washer/dryer with the little ones too, plus a separate room so while kids are napping/sleeping, the adults can watch TV or relax a bit too.

However, we save money on food - eating in breakfast and dinner most of the time. Also, we plan our trips about 11 1/2 months apart so 1 AP can cover 2 trips (and DVC also provides the AP discount).

We owned at BWV first (and still own there). I think we'll go back to BWV stays once the kids are older, as the walk to Epcot and DHS is very appealling too. You can visit whatever park in the am, still take a break back in the room, and then plan dinners out at Epcot.

 

[Dee77]

I agree that your family sounds like an ideal fit for DVC. My only advice is that you also look into buying resale. The savings can be pretty substantial than with buying direct from Disney. Good luck with your decision and congratulations on the new baby!