Renting a
DVC reservation from a member can provide a good discount for great accommodations. The savings will vary, since all details of the transaction are decided by those involved, but many have been able to save 50% or more as compared to rates directly thru Disney- even discounted rates.
The best rates will be found for Sunday - Thursday nights, since weekend nights are about double the point costs for weekdays. There may be little or no savings on weekends.
There are no room taxes on DVC reservations - so be sure to figure that savings into any cost comparison.
DVC reservations will not have daily housekeeping - only a towel replacement/trash service on the 4th day of the stay (every 4 days of a stay you would get either fresh towels or a full clean depending on the length of your stay). Additional housekeeping services and/or towels may be purchased thru the front desk of the resort. 1BR and larger villas all have washer/dryer as well as full kitchens. Studios have free access to washer/dryers- located near the pools at OKW and SSR and inside the building at BWV. BWV and VWL.
A certain level of trust is necessary when dealing with private individuals as Disney will not intervene in any dispute regarding these reservations. Cancellation policies, refund policy and payment policies are all negotiable between the parties involved. Disney suggests a contract be used where the renter will agree to abide by rules of the resort and the DVC itself.
You may want to review the
Rent/Trade FAQ and the other informational posts stuck at the top of that board for more information about the process.
Most have found the experience to be rewarding. Just be sure to compare the rental rate with what you could get directly thru Disney and have some expectations regarding what policies will be comfortable for you before committing any money. The member will control the reservation up until check-in at the resort so be sure to ask for and check references of anyone you would consider dealing with.
Enjoy!