Looking at buying -- any thoughts? Recommendations?

[dksoreal]

Looking at buying into SSR. Anything I need to look out for or be careful of? I believe I know what I am getting into, but there seem to be some knowledgable folks on here and I might have a few things to consider?

Any thoughts are welcome.

 

[rocketriter]

You might want to play with the vacation points calculator and get a feel for how many points you'll need. Consider the future, as well. For example, if you have a couple of toddlers right now, you'll do fine for a few years staying in a studio. But you'll eventually wind up in a 2-bedroom, particularly if they're of different sexes.

Also give some thoughts to time of year. With little ones it's easy to travel in off season. But from junior high onward you'll probably want to abide by school schedules, which will push you into more expensive seasons.

I'm not saying you have to buy enough points for a 2-bedroom at high season right now; just plan out your future so that you'll finish paying off the current purchase (if you finance) before you want to start an add-on.

 

[twotoohappy]

Originally posted by dksoreal
Looking at buying into SSR. Anything I need to look out for or be careful of? I believe I know what I am getting into, but there seem to be some knowledgable folks on here and I might have a few things to consider?

Any thoughts are welcome.

Welcome dksoreal!
If you've done all your reading up on DVC and still have more questions, then I'd call Byron. He's really helpful, calls right back and isn't pushy. ( 1-800-501-8668 ) He's my guide and he's never steared me wrong.
Good luck and let us know when you buy so we can say Welcome Home!

 

[tjkraz]

A few things to look out for:

1. Make sure you are wanting to buy DVC with your primary intent being to stay at the DVC properties. DVC does offer exchanges which let you stay at other WDW properties and even non-Disney vacation destinations. But these are not "economical" uses for your points. DVC is the Cadillac of timeshares. If you only want to go to Disney World every 3-4 years and use your points elsewhere frequently, then you're better off looking into other timeshares. You can get something cheaper which will accomplish similar goals.

2. As rocketriter suggested, look at the point charts. Weekend stays often cost more than 2x the number of points as the same weekday stay. There are many different "seasons" with different point costs per night. Make sure you buy enought points to accomplish your vacation goals.

3. Realize that DVC members are long-term planners. Getting a room--any room--on short notice (let's say 2 months or less) will be difficult in some periods and downright impossible in others.

Other than that, there aren't a lot of pitfalls that stand out. There is no wording in the contract that allows DVC to take your first born. If you buy direct from DVC, the prices are not negotiable so there is no haggling over price.

If you are used to staying at WDW Deluxe resorts at least every 24 months (if not more frequently), there is no question that DVC will save you thousands in the years to come.

Good luck.

 

[dksoreal]

Thank you for your thoughts / recommendations. After running the numbers and all my research I have not been able to come up with a reason not to buy, which your comments above just reinforced.

I am looking at signing today through Disney - which will be SSR of course. With a little one now who is nuts over Disney, I am sure we will become regulars. Thanks for all the help. I am sure as a newbie I will have more questions in the future.

 

[rocketriter]

And so, in advance of your signing: WELCOME HOME!