We have been traveling to WDW for years. We stayed in the Contemporary when my dad paid for our trip, but made three trips staying at PO (Dixie Landings) and loved it. However, one year we were able to get a deal to stay at BW. We were upgraded to a one bedroom from a studio, no extra charge. We were intimidated by the valet parking, luggage service, etc. We too are simple people. We went to the presentation but didn't think we could afford it or that we wanted to commit to Disney every other year. That was the most we felt we would go.
Our last trip was in 2001, our children are now older so we needed two adjoining rooms, so double the price of the moderate resort- $300 per night. And, we had stayed at BW, been able to walk to Epcot and MGM. In other words, we were spoiled. Five years after the presentation, I called and bought 170 points, enough to go every other year, stay at BW in the summer (I am a teacher and that is the only time we can go).
I know that as we get older, it will be a place that our family can continue to vacation, when our kids get married and have kids of their own, where we can take friends, etc. I do regret not buying sooner. We were fortunate to be able to get BW in 2003 as it is now sold out.
Another of the advantages to owning DVC is the kitchen in the one and two BR. Eating a meal in once a day could easily save a family of four $300+ over a week's time. You really have a great deal of flexibility to save money.
I certainly wouldn't tell you to jump at the chance before Tuesday, but I wouldn't rule it out. There always seems to be a new incentive when the last one expires. Think about it in terms of your kids and their kids and all that it can become to you for the next 49 years.
I have realized from watching these boards that if something unforeseen occurred and I could no longer use my DCV membership, I certainly could resell it for close to what I paid for it or I could rent my points to others for much more than they cost me in my annual dues.
We are heading down for our first trip as DVC members in June. The kids, now 21 and 19 are taking friends. I was explaining this to a buddy a couple weeks ago and he asked, what is that costing you. I paused and said, it's already paid, and it is. I call it my prepaid vacation until 2042. I hope this helps. Don't feel pressured, but know that if you read these boards, you will find a common sentiment and that is regret for not buying sooner.
. But I've seen that a good understanding of what DVC does and doesn't offer is very important to being happy with a DVC purchase.
