If you aren't a member yet and want to buy direct first, you can get a Dream it Forward referral to save a decent chunk of change on your first contract - I think a referral is good for $500 off and it stacks with all other available incentives. If you buy resale first you won't be eligible for a referral, but will be eligible for current member incentives.
When you buy direct, you get your points later that day or worst case the next day after putting down your deposit and signing your paperwork. If you buy resale you're looking at 60 days plus to get your points. I am at 35 days since I made my offer and put down my deposit on a resale contract right now, and haven't even closed yet - so I'm looking at at least another month until I get my points.
I would buy direct first and resale second. That's what I've done and it's worked for me. Everyone is different and YMMV. Just what's worked well for me.
If you do decide to buy resale make sure you buy points that are the same use year. Make all of your points the same use year unless you really need a hobby. LOL