Help needed, 1st time.......

[Lisa the kute 1]

Hello Mouseketeers,
First of all let me say how excited I am about being appart of DVC. Unfortunately, I have ran into a small stumble to close on the property. I am planning a upcoming trip in December, but I have not reserved my space yet or booked the trip (except for the dining). I have (9) friends who have never been to WDW and I will be showing them around (they are staying off-site). I have made a itinerary and everything.
I need help and advice. Since I have not booked yet I heard that it will be difficult for me to find a spot this late. What do I do? Does anyone have any advice or tidbits to share. I probably won't be able to book until sometime next week (crossing my fingers). Please help me on what I should do.

 

[tjkraz]

A lot of it depends on how selective you plan to be (I'm hoping you will take anything) and how long of a trip you have planned. If you just want 2 nights anywhere, I bet you'll get it. If you want 10 nights...well, your odds decrease significantly.

It might help to be open to staying at multiple resorts. If we're talking about 5 nights, it may be easier to get 2 at one resort and 3 at another resort. When your contract is settled, make sure you suggest that to the CM you speak with as they will normally just look for availability for the entire date range you provide.

As a last resort you could consider using the points at a non-DVC resort. But be warned that if you book something at a moderate or non-DVC deluxe, you CANNOT waitlist for a DVC resort with those same points. Once points are used for non-DVC resorts they are converted to what are called "Reservation Points." Reservation points can only be used for non-DVC stays.

Good luck.

 

[Deb & Bill]

When in December? Early or late will probably be very difficult. Mid-Dec will be tough, but maybe not impossible. You never know.

 

[3DisneyKids]

When in December? Early or late will probably be very difficult. Mid-Dec will be tough, but maybe not impossible. You never know.

And in what size accommodations? Studio? 1BR? etc.

I called earlier today to see about a 1 BR at SSR and there was availability for the second week in Dec., though I did not ask about any other resorts as this was my first choice.

Are you buying through Disney directly or resale? *Sometimes* guides can really help to secure that first stay, so if you have a guide you are purchasing through, talk with that person as well.

 

[spiceycat]

nothing is ever guaranteed.

but the bigger DVC gets - the more likihood of cancelations.

so if you are willing to take anything and go on wait list - then you might get it.

remember to key is waiting. waiting until the last 30 days. most cancellations will happen in the 60 to 31 days before - so their points won't go in holding.