Holding Account Points Need Advice...

[csharpwv]

In December we planned a trip for May 7-12 (last week) with my parents, one of my brothers, his wife, their 2.5 year old son, and then my wife and I.
We had reserved a two bedroom and a Studio, both Savannah View - a little over 300 points.

However, my Mom was hospitalized four weeks ago, and passed away two weeks ago.

So of course, we canceled the trip.

Luckily we had travel insurance on our flights, but didn't even consider it for our DVC points (mistake we'll never make again when using THAT many points!)

However - the advice I need is this - What should we do with these points?

We are not going to be able to schedule a FAMILY trip between now and the end of our Use Year when the points will expire-

My wife has suggested that I take a trip alone to unwind and relax some after all that has happened. But even then, we are going to lose around 150 points or so.

I have an Annual Pass - so tickets aren't a problem.

Has anyone rented their Holding Account points before? How successful were you?

They really throw a wrench in your plans by not allowing you to book more than 60 days out.

We considered a 3-4 night cruise as it wouldn't take much time off of work - but with the 60 day rule, that isn't a possibility after talking to Member Services.

An RCI exchange isn't going to use many points at all -

I could inquire about available rooms on the Disney Collection to stay at a regular Disney Hotel, but then again, I feel like that would be wasting points.

I have the vacation time to take a week off whenever I want to over the next few months - so that's not a problem. I have looked at a specific week in July and there are three resorts with the whole week available - but I have only been to Disney ONCE during peak season, and that was when I was 5 years old - and I just remember it being hot, humid, crowded, and miserable. BUT, a trip to WDW is a trip to WDW - right?

Any adventurous suggestions?
Any ideas?
Rental ADVICE? (THIS IS NOT A FOR RENT POST!!!! AS I AM NOT SURE I EVEN WANT TO RENT THE POINTS!)

Any advice will be helpful - thanks!

 

[hakepb]

So sorry for you and your family.

I think a board sponsor rents some form(s) of "distressed" points. (Reduced rates to you and the renter)
disboards.com/announcement.php?f=119&a=272

My lone quick July trip was hot, but I took it slow (slept. In, hung out at the pool, then went to a park), and with the AP reduced park time each day is no problem "value" wise

 

[jupers]

I don't really know anything about holding points because I am a brand new member but couldn't you go with your immediate family, (spouse and kids) and splurge on accomodations you wouldn't normally stay at???? I also recently lost a parent and I think getting away is a really good idea for you. Good luck and sorry for your loss.

 

[hakepb]

I don't really know anything about holding points because I am a brand new member but couldn't you go with your immediate family, (spouse and kids) and splurge on accomodations you wouldn't normally stay at???? I also recently lost a parent and I think getting away is a really good idea for you. Good luck and sorry for your loss.

From what I understand, holding points happen when you cancel a reservation 30 or less days from checkin. Those restricted holding points can only be used within 60 days of calling (ie you could only reserve up to July 16 if you called today). As last minute, the available choices/splurges are very limited.

 

[thepops]

Call Member services and talk to them. Let them know about the situation with your Mom and they may be able to work some magic for you. (they did for me once). It may use up your "one time only" magic but for 300 points it may well be worth it.