I think many of us felt just like you do. I just joined a month ago, but spent a few months in "agony" over my decision. I had at least 20 sheets of papers filled out with different costs and would it save me money, cost me money, or break even. Did I want to go to Disney every year? What would vacations look like if I joined? Would I regret not joining ten years from now? I walked for hours thinking (and praying) about joining or not. And, I spent countless hours right here on this discussion forum, reading and re-reading what people were saying. (also, several hours with my Guide -- poor fellow). Here is what pushed me over the edge towards buying:
1) I enjoy amusement parks. Disney is Great! I know I will be happy spending one week a year (or more) for the "other worldly" experience.
2) I can take family and friends changing my vacation experience each year. My first trip will be in July and my brother and his wife have decided to go with me. True, we could have done that before. But for some reason, never did.
DVC opened the door of opportunity for vacation with family.
3) If I decide I don't want it anymore, I can sell it. Now I may lose money in the process. But even so, I feel the chance of "loss" is worth the risk because of the greater chance of it being one of my best decisions.
4) The promo at SSR for $86/point made me feel I was getting a great deal, and fit my budget much better. I also like SSR and it's location. I can just walk to DTD or ride the boat putting me around a lot of excitement. Or just walk around SSR for a little more peace and quiet.
5) I HAD THE MONEY FOR IT. It's not going to create a financial burden on me, even the MF's. Of course some fancy budgeting is taking place now. But it is working.
I can tell you this: after the decision was made and I went forward, I had perfect peace about it. And now I feel like a child on Christmas morning who just unwraped something really special. I'm excited about my first trip! I'm excited about being a DVC member. And I'm especially happy that I thought it through and took the time to research just about everything about DVC (thanks to all of you here).
Good luck on your decision. Understand that the process of deciding can be part of the "fun." If you are not certain about joining, don't feel pressured that you have to make a decision TODAY.