Multiple Questions re GVs, SSR, OKW, etc...

[Namdnas]

I am considering an add on to the 150 pt. BCV membership that I currently own.

After doing quite a bit of point calculating, scouring the resale sites and pondering this, I have a bunch of open questions that I'm hoping you all can help me with.

I'm fairly sure that I'll be looking at 180 pts. at OKW for the following reasons.

• OKW has the most Grand Villas, and the reason I want extra points is to be able to 'gift' bringing friends and family down to WDW each year. A 3 bedroom is often what we'd need. 5 nights x 36 points/night points is enough for a 5 day stay at a GV in the low season in January. It'd also be good for 6 nights in a 2BR for years where we only bring one additional family along, and 8 nights in a 1BR when we go alone. I also figure I have a much better chance of actually getting a GV based on the number of them at OKW.
• OKW resales can be had for approx. $72/point with some existing points and closing factored in. Cheap compared to even $74 with MB.
• I'd be able to go this year, or early next if I choose one with an appropriate use year.

Now, the only thing causing me heartburn is Saratoga Springs, and for the following reasons...

• I've been reading that there will be some type of incentive to buy at SSR. Noone seems to know what that'll be exactly. That directly affects my OKW vs. SSR financial comparison. e.g. I'd consider a use year which I could only use next year if I got some points for other DVC properties in the interim to use this year. Same goes for $10 off per point.
• I've read that OKW rooms are the largest, but that it might not matter much due to improvements in layouts which minimize this difference.
• I am not sure of the relative count of GV's at SSR, or of the point costs for these. I assume they'll be between more expensive than OKW, but how much more. Also, how many will there be?
• If I chose a December use year, would I be able to use my first points in January 2004?
• Would I actually have to make a trip to Orlando to do this, or can I buy into SSR over the phone. I would love to be able to close, be done and make reservations within the next month vs. waiting for ROFR, closing, etc...
• Is the location really bad for SSR? It's a hike to most parks from OKW, so I assume it can't be much worse, and it would have the benefit of being withing walking distance to Downtown Disney.
• Last, I hear the pool might be nearly as good, or better than SAB, which is the reason I chose BCV in th first place. That might throw me over the edge for SSR.

So, as you can see, I'm agonizing... any help would be appreciated.

Thanks!!!

 

[floridafam]

I can't answer all of your questions but I was told that the price for SSR would be $89 with a $10 credit ($79) OR the pts that have to be used before April 2004.

I don't know the exact number of "free" pts you may be able to get but it depends on the amount of pts you purchase.

I do not know when the first use year will start.

The pool looks like it is going to be great. The entire resort-from what I have seen (the artist renderings) looks like it is going to be quite nice.

SSR goes on sale 8/3. My guide said that they will have a little booklet of information to send out after it goes on sale.

I'm sure someone else will be able to answer most of your questions.

Good luck.