If you don't try a deluxe, you will still be wondering whether you should or not. We finally stayed at WL on our last visit because the price was right (and we wanted the bunk beds); however, after staying there, I'd rather go back to POR. I'm glad I gave it a try though so now I know. Of course, I'm still wondering about some of the other resorts....
I don't think you will lose much park time if you decide to split your stay and let WDW take care of transferring your bags. Its a little hassle to re-pack, but we have changed hotels before and that was from Universal Studios area to WDW.