What a coincidence! Two DISers who became members the same month. Our "journey" to membership began with the impact of 9/11. I had reservations for a solo trip at Dixie Landings/POR, but when it closed due to the downturn in tourism, I went to AS Music. What a disappointment for me! So I booked the DVC tour solo, thinking "I bet they never close DVC". Even though I was sans DH, the guide gave me the full tour, was very cordial, and it paid off-when I got home and DH saw the look on my face, smart DH said "Let's do it-it sounds like a wonderful idea!" Initially we bought at VWL (which we no longer own), and didn't add on at BCV until after I stayed there. IMO, you were smart to buy BCV at the beginning.
We got our first contract (AKV) in late 2007 or early 2008 (I forget when we actually bought - we'd be considering it for a while) and our second (BWV, resale) in late 2008. We added on again in 2013 when VGF became available. We've used our points on between one and three trips a year, usually to WDW, but we've also used them at VGC and Aulani.
My parents purchased when there was an OKW model and construction, which I think was in 1991 (their membership number is really low.. either under 100 or under 1000). We stopped mooching off their points and purchased our own in 2006.
Bought in at SSR in 2006! We thought about it on our honeymoon in 1999 but said it was "too expensive"...kicking outselves for having not bought then when it really was "cheaper"! Haha!
Had to check the 16 -20 year for one month. Next month, I could say 'over' 20 years. Except for one night, all stays at OKW. Leaving tomorrow for another one!
I read this post and am blown away by the number of people who have been members since 1991 & 1992. My one regret was not buying then, and waiting until 2008. Good on you folks!!!
Not soon enough! 2004 for first contract at SSR, add-on later at AKL and just last year got small resale contract with/for daughter at BWV. Still learning how to manage different use years