Is there a DVC 101 thread?

[Nana2Callie]

We are planning on making an annual trip to Disney and thinking that the DVC might be a great option for us; however, I'm completely overwhelmed with the process and exactly how it works.

I have a basic understanding of Timeshare (we live near Branson MO) which is huge in timeshare offers; but I'm a little confused on the points.

Also, how to figure how many points I need for the time we want to spend and how to be certain of getting the week that we want each other.

Can someone guide me in the direction of this info?

Thanks for helping a newbie learn.

 

[chalee94]

there's a link to point charts for the different resorts in the top right hand corner.

(edited to add: the point charts show the price - per night - in points. there is no discount for a 7-night stay and it doesn't matter if you start in a different season, just add up the point cost per night as listed in the charts to figure how many you need.)

here is basic info on DVC and links to the different resorts (with pics) to get a feel for which you would prefer:

http://allears.net/acc/dvc.htm

(there is also a resorts link above that you can use- look under the villas section.)

if you call to book your home resort at 11 months out, you will virtually always get what you want. if you wait, results become more variable.

 

[chalee94]

for further reading, here is a good thread to start with:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2740145

here are some general information you might find interesting:

here is a thread for more info about choosing a home resort.

here is a link to historical annual dues per point for the different DVC resorts and other DVC info.

and if you are ready for slightly more advanced information:

here is a thread for understanding use year.

for pricing/buying information:

here is (usually accurate) current pricing for contracts purchased directly.

there is a link above for resale listings, which will be much cheaper but take longer to close and also no longer have access to trading for disney cruises or stays at disney hotels like the GF.

 

[mecllap]

There are no certainties or absolutes in the timeshare world -- things change over time (so no definitive answer to your questions). The DVC Resale Listings link up top also has a FAQ link that has some brief handy info (the timeshare store used to have a useful pdf up there, but I don't see it now). And keep in mind that what you read online may already be out-of-date. Consider a small resale contract for a first purchase to try it out.

It's generally good to buy where you want to stay (or at least are fine with staying --not where you'll be disappointed). The DVC points system has some more flexibility in its use than traditional weeks-based timeshares (TS), but it's best use is at a DVC location (generally). DVC does retain a better resale value (so far), than most TS systems, and it has a shorter timeframe commitment. They all have annual costs in addition to initial purchase costs (it takes several years of use to "amortize" the purchase).

It's good that you're setting out on researching it before committing -- you might want to try renting a unit to check it out -- and take some tours of the resorts. (Try not to be tempted to buy onsite on your first tour with a salesperson/"guide" -- it's actually a big decision, with a really long term expensive financial commitment).