I will readily admit that I was an SSR snob and had no desire to stay there. I have now stayed at SSR my last two visits and while SSR is not #1 on my
DVC list...it's also not at the bottom either. My only major complaint is the size of the resort and walking and walking is just part of the equation when staying at SSR.
My only recommendation would be to opt for the preferred booking which gets you into either Springs or Congress Park. Absolutely refuse to stay at Carousel...even if you have to have a temper tantrum at check in. Carousel is for those DVC members on "double secret probation" ...no pool, no food, no nothing