Newbie Considering DVC

[shreddedshoe]

Hello everyone. Need some expert advice/thoughts/comments/opinions please! Have been researching DVC for a couple years now and I think I want to do this, but as it is a big commitment, I do have some reservations. My family is just myself, husband and 9 y/o daughter. Our first trip was to WL in 2017 and I fell down the rabbit hole. Didn't schedule again though until 2020 and well....Make up trip was at Beach Club, hotel side in August 2021 and just returned a couple weeks ago from a week long stay on rented points at the Poly. These two last trips have made me more seriously consider DVC, especially as I am now planning for our next trip for Spring 2023. I want to rent points again and this time stay in a 1 bedroom (CC or BLT are the top 2). An adults only F&W trip for next November could possibly be in the cards as well. I've started running the numbers and what I am going to pay for those two trips is a good chunk of a small contract. I don't know why, I'm pretty sure it's some kind of cult, but I just want to keep going back. My husband isn't so enthused, but he very much enjoyed our resort day this time around, Disney Springs, the Cirque show and he's into the festivals at Epcot, esp. F&W...so I'll work with it. Our daughter is on board of course. I just hate the thought of putting out more $$$ for a cash stay if this is something we are going to continue doing for the foreseeable future. There are other places I want to go, and as our daughter gets older, that may/will change what types of vacations we want to take, so I can't really predict the future. But I also don't want to be 5 years down the road still going to Disney regularly wishing I had pulled the trigger 5 years earlier either. Does that make sense?

So if I do go through with this, I'm thinking a small resale contract to start...dip our toes in. Using the "buy where you want to stay" theory, the two resorts I would consider would be BC and PVB. The 2042 expiration at BC is both a pro and con for us. The fact that it will just go away (assuming) in 2042 isn't necessarily a bad thing for us since we are 51 and 52 y/o and I see it as an easy and convenient out given our ages at that point. 2042 is also a con of course since we'd probably have to hold the contract for the duration since selling if we wanted/needed to before then probably would be very difficult if not impossible given it's short shelf life. We love BC and would use it for F&W most likely in November. I know studios would be hard to get, but how difficult would it be to secure a 1 bedroom at the 7 mos mark? On the other hand, I could buy PVB right now without thinking twice...except for the new tower, which does make me think twice. I feel like PVB would give us the biggest bang for the buck, has a longer expiration, could use as SAP for the 1 bedroom we want (BC at 7mos?), but I'm not sure how I feel about possibly being restricted. Of course I have no idea if we'll even like the new tower so it may not matter, but it does make me hesitate.

So my thought would be to buy a small contract at BC now, securing the 11 mos window and wait and see what happens at the Poly. Once we know the association status, if I wanted to add on there, I would already be a member and could take advantage of direct incentives if that makes sense for us. I feel our dollars would go farther at PVB however and I think if we bought there, it kinda covers all the bases for us and I wouldn't need to buy anywhere else. And if the points end up being restricted, I could still add on there just the same. I honestly would probably just go with PVB, but the real sticker for me is honestly not necessarily potential restrictions (it is a little bit), it's whether or not or how hard it would be to use those points at BC at the 7 mos mark to secure a room in November. We do love BC, but I think the only real reason I would buy there is to get that 11 mos advantage. While I say 2042 doesn't bother me, it sort of does. I don't have gobs of money to spend, so I do need to maximize what I have, but I also want to love our "home" as well (you can see I'm working this out as I type).

Or maybe I really just need to go one more time before I make a decision. As a side note, I know BLT, CC and VGF are options as well. I'm not interested in RIV and don't really care for VGF either...although their 1 bedrooms look huge in the videos I've watched, so I wouldn't mind staying there, it's just not top of my list as a buy. Not really digging the vibe at BLT either, but the 2 bathrooms in their 1 bedrooms would be a game changer...again, I want to stay there, but don't necessarily want to buy there. BC and Poly are our hands down faves and if we couldn't stay anywhere else ever, we'd be ok with that. And then there are the dues and what to do with our APs...a whole other thread!

Thoughts please? Sorry if all that got a bit "rambly."

Thank you!

 

[happythoughts & pixiedust]

Poly points are much more economical and Poly studios cost far fewer points than Beach Club 1 beds. Buying with the intent to stay in 1 beds at Beach Club will be significantly more expensive on a per room night basis. Approx numbers something like ~$300/nt for Poly studio vs ~$550/nt equivalent for Beach Club 1 bed.

However, if you want Beach Club in November you’ll need to own there. It’s possible to get a couple random nights in a 1 bed, but I wouldn’t count on it.

I’d probably buy Poly, as it is much more economical. You’ll have a guaranteed place to stay that you love, and then at 7 mo, try to swap out for a 1 bed elsewhere and get some variety. But ultimately buy where you most want to stay. If that’s a walkable EPCOT resort for FW, then go for it.

 

[Sandisw]

Sounds like you have a great starting plan. I do agree that if you have concerns about Poly tower and being restricted from it..since it is a top choice..if might be good ti wait for that announcement.

If BC is the place you would also enjoy, and find a smaller contract then go for it. I’d it was a top resort for me, I would!

 

[KTownRaider]

Looks like you've thought this through. Personally, I would plant your flag on a small BCV contract in the short term. The peace of mind that comes with knowing you'll have one of your 'faves' locked down for the next 19+ years is worth something. I would not advise relying on PVB as SAP to get highly sought after BCV (even a 1BR) during DVC's highest demand season (Fall/Holidays) at 7 months.

Then I would, as you suggest, continue renting/experiencing other resorts (BLT?) in 2023 while also giving yourself time to learn more about the new Poly Tower's association situation. Depending on the situation, it may make sense to go for a blue card in a couple of years so you wouldn't be locked out of the new tower. While there is not an perfect solution present today, I think there's a good chance a satisfying solution will eventually emerge for you... Good luck!

 

[BeachClub2014]

Sound like you have a great idea of what works for you and your family. I think buying a Beach Club resale contract to start with makes a lot of sense and reasonable deals can be had.

 

[Dotluvsdisney]

I share your ambivalence! I have stayed at Disney hotels and rented DVC points on a regular basis over the past 10 years. Some of my happiest memories with my son as a single parent are at Disney. He is now 15, I rented points for an overnight resort only stay at Polynesian for myself, my son and one of his friends. We all had the best time! My husband and I rented points at Boardwalk for an overnight during the flower and garden festival. Another amazing stay. I had the funds and put a bid in on a Polynesian 150 pt contract. Waiting for the ROFR process. I have lived within driving distance in FL most of the past 10 years which makes it very accessible for us.

 

[shreddedshoe]

Poly points are much more economical and Poly studios cost far fewer points than Beach Club 1 beds. Buying with the intent to stay in 1 beds at Beach Club will be significantly more expensive on a per room night basis. Approx numbers something like ~$300/nt for Poly studio vs ~$550/nt equivalent for Beach Club 1 bed.

However, if you want Beach Club in November you’ll need to own there. It’s possible to get a couple random nights in a 1 bed, but I wouldn’t count on it.

I’d probably buy Poly, as it is much more economical. You’ll have a guaranteed place to stay that you love, and then at 7 mo, try to swap out for a 1 bed elsewhere and get some variety. But ultimately buy where you most want to stay. If that’s a walkable EPCOT resort for FW, then go for it.

This is what I have been thinking. The economics of Poly are better than BC but I know my husband esp would be disappointed if we were going to F&W and not staying at BC. The monorail over to Epcot is great, but we both loved the access to World Showcase from BC better. I’m honestly ok with either regardless since I don’t mind the extra walking, but he’s more World Showcase focused, so staying at BC would be important for him. I think we’d both be ok swapping into different resorts or doing splits on a non-F&W trip. Guess I have my answer! Thank you for your thoughts on this.

 

[Princess Merida]

If you want to stay at BCV in the fall BCV is the choice in my opinion. We have a BWV resale contract and zero regrets. We are coming with some family and doing 2 studios Sept 28- Oct 4 for their first visit and food and wine. I booked those 11 months out. I'm a RAT stalker and I have seen little movement in fall availability at BWV and BCV. You can barely find anything at OKW or SSR at this point, though I'm sure at 7 months you could have. So basically, if you're traveling in the fall buy where you want to stay. Just FYI... I've only been able to get into BCV for 3 nights one summer and I booked a spring break stay we had to cancel, but the point cost on spring break is super high. We have owned it since 2016. Staying in the Epcot resort area is the reason my husband finally caved on the DVC purchase. It was after we rented points on here to stay at BWV!

 

[shreddedshoe]

Sound like you have a great idea of what works for you and your family. I think buying a Beach Club resale contract to start with makes a lot of sense and reasonable deals can be had.

Thank you. That helps to hear that people still think BC is a viable option despite its short contract length. I guess if it was easier to get into at the 7 mos mark that wouldn’t be the case, but because of that it seems to have held its value.

I share your ambivalence! I have stayed at Disney hotels and rented DVC points on a regular basis over the past 10 years. Some of my happiest memories with my son as a single parent are at Disney. He is now 15, I rented points for an overnight resort only stay at Polynesian for myself, my son and one of his friends. We all had the best time! My husband and I rented points at Boardwalk for an overnight during the flower and garden festival. Another amazing stay. I had the funds and put a bid in on a Polynesian 150 pt contract. Waiting for the ROFR process. I have lived within driving distance in FL most of the past 10 years which makes it very accessible for us.

Congratulations on your potential contract. Things seem to look pretty good for PVB contracts passing ROFR right now so my fingers are crossed for you. We had a great experience renting points and would definitely keep doing that. This last trip to PVB has spoiled us, so all the more reason I think I would like to buy in. Although it couldn’t hurt to keep renting points for a bit more just be sure that DVC is the commitment I want to make. I’m pretty sure I can’t go wrong either way. I’m still going and still spending the money! Good luck with ROFR!

 

[UA DVC Member]

Personally I’d go with the Poly points as they are more economical and it’s a fabulous resort. Also remember that if you’re wanting proximity to EPCOT, the Poly is a very short walk to the TTC which has direct monorail service to EPCOT.

 

[BeachClub2014]

Thank you. That helps to hear that people still think BC is a viable option despite its short contract length. I guess if it was easier to get into at the 7 mos mark that wouldn’t be the case, but because of that it seems to have held its value.

Congratulations on your potential contract. Things seem to look pretty good for PVB contracts passing ROFR right now so my fingers are crossed for you. We had a great experience renting points and would definitely keep doing that. This last trip to PVB has spoiled us, so all the more reason I think I would like to buy in. Although it couldn’t hurt to keep renting points for a bit more just be sure that DVC is the commitment I want to make. I’m pretty sure I can’t go wrong either way. I’m still going and still spending the money! Good luck with ROFR!

You betcha! You will hear many voices here on the DIS that say buying BCV is not a good idea and a terrible value. I disagree. If Beach Club (or Boardwalk, for that matter) are where you want to mainly stay, then they have more value to you than to others. We refuse to rent points, don't want to roll the dice on lucking into a reservation at 7-months, and don't like split stays. So, for us, buying points at BCV to avoid those things is what made sense. Could we have saved a few bucks by buying elsewhere? Sure.

ETA: We also own points at Riviera and Old Key West for similar reasons. We love those resorts, want to have home resort priority now and into the future, and they were of great value to us.

 

[shreddedshoe]

Sounds like you have a great starting plan. I do agree that if you have concerns about Poly tower and being restricted from it..since it is a top choice..if might be good ti wait for that announcement.

If BC is the place you would also enjoy, and find a smaller contract then go for it. I’d it was a top resort for me, I would!

Thank you. I’m pretty sure I would be happy either way at the Poly…I love the current resort as it is, but it would be nice to know if I bought in now whether or not those points would be good at the tower. I’m probably better off waiting since I’m asking the question at all. I also know I definitely want to be able to stay at BC at certain times of the year so why risk not getting in by buying somewhere else and hoping I could switch at 7 mos. 19+ years is still a long time. Thank you again for helping me think this through!

 

[shreddedshoe]

Personally I’d go with the Poly points as they are more economical and it’s a fabulous resort. Also remember that if you’re wanting proximity to EPCOT, the Poly is a very short walk to the TTC which has direct monorail service to EPCOT.

Yes. We were in Moorea on this past trip towards the TTC end of the building and being so close was fantastic! I’m hoping once a lot of the construction is finished at Epcot that it will be easier navigating that park. Still lots to think about!

 

[Sandisw]

Thank you. I’m pretty sure I would be happy either way at the Poly…I love the current resort as it is, but it would be nice to know if I bought in now whether or not those points would be good at the tower. I’m probably better off waiting since I’m asking the question at all. I also know I definitely want to be able to stay at BC at certain times of the year so why risk not getting in by buying somewhere else and hoping I could switch at 7 mos. 19+ years is still a long time. Thank you again for helping me think this through!

IMO, with no decision yet, I would go in assuming the worst...its restricted. If it is, no big deal. If it is not, its a bonus. The BCV points won't be good there if it is, but that is okay since your purpose for those is to stay at BCV during F & W!!!

Our plan is to purchase Poly tower if it is a new resort and not tied to the current Poly because we are not a fan of the long houses and location. But, the tower is our style, so we are willing to add it if it is a new association!!!

 

[shreddedshoe]

Looks like you've thought this through. Personally, I would plant your flag on a small BCV contract in the short term. The peace of mind that comes with knowing you'll have one of your 'faves' locked down for the next 19+ years is worth something. I would not advise relying on PVB as SAP to get highly sought after BCV (even a 1BR) during DVC's highest demand season (Fall/Holidays) at 7 months.

Then I would, as you suggest, continue renting/experiencing other resorts (BLT?) in 2023 while also giving yourself time to learn more about the new Poly Tower's association situation. Depending on the situation, it may make sense to go for a blue card in a couple of years so you wouldn't be locked out of the new tower. While there is not an perfect solution present today, I think there's a good chance a satisfying solution will eventually emerge for you... Good luck!

This is what I have been thinking. As much as I love PVB and don’t think I could go wrong there, tower or no tower, its still in the back of head. I was concerned too about how difficult it would be to get into BC at 7 mos with those points. So it does seem to make sense to start there and wait on the Poly. I would definitely not buy BC direct either, but Poly would still be a relevant direct purchase if incentives are good and given the contract length. Thank you so much for your helpful advice!

 

[shreddedshoe]

If you want to stay at BCV in the fall BCV is the choice in my opinion. We have a BWV resale contract and zero regrets. We are coming with some family and doing 2 studios Sept 28- Oct 4 for their first visit and food and wine. I booked those 11 months out. I'm a RAT stalker and I have seen little movement in fall availability at BWV and BCV. You can barely find anything at OKW or SSR at this point, though I'm sure at 7 months you could have. So basically, if you're traveling in the fall buy where you want to stay. Just FYI... I've only been able to get into BCV for 3 nights one summer and I booked a spring break stay we had to cancel, but the point cost on spring break is super high. We have owned it since 2016. Staying in the Epcot resort area is the reason my husband finally caved on the DVC purchase. It was after we rented points on here to stay at BWV!

That’s what I was afraid of…tough to get in even when you own there, it would be worse if you don’t. My husband too really likes the proximity to Epcot from BC and the skyliner is right there too. He didn’t care so much for where the monorail drops you off in Epcot. He is more of a World Showcase person so like you, mine would be better on board with DVC if we had that access. Thank you for your perspective.

 

[shreddedshoe]

IMO, with no decision yet, I would go in assuming the worst...its restricted. If it is, no big deal. If it is not, its a bonus. The BCV points won't be good there if it is, but that is okay since your purpose for those is to stay at BCV during F & W!!!

Our plan is to purchase Poly tower if it is a new resort and not tied to the current Poly because we are not a fan of the long houses and location. But, the tower is our style, so we are willing to add it if it is a new association!!!

Yes. Good point. I think that’s a safe bet to assume it will be restricted. And yes, my main purpose for BC points would be primarily to use them at BC. And once I know more, if I like the tower I can always add on. Uh oh…I see a plan developing!

 

[shreddedshoe]

You betcha! You will hear many voices here on the DIS that say buying BCV is not a good idea and a terrible value. I disagree. If Beach Club (or Boardwalk, for that matter) are where you want to mainly stay, then they have more value to you than to others. We refuse to rent points, don't want to roll the dice on lucking into a reservation at 7-months, and don't like split stays. So, for us, buying points at BCV to avoid those things is what made sense. Could we have saved a few bucks by buying elsewhere? Sure.

ETA: We also own points at Riviera and Old Key West for similar reasons. We love those resorts, want to have home resort priority now and into the future, and they were of great value to us.

Yes. I’ve been reading all those threads too and I appreciate those viewpoints as well. And while there are alternatives and work arounds, it comes down to how far are you going to go to get what you want and ultimately what makes you happy. DVC is a lot $$$ so you better be sure your purchase is the right one. I’ve only rented points once and it was an excellent experience, something I would do again, but i really don’t like not having control over the reservation. Once you book it’s pretty set in stone, you’re not modifying and if you cancel you’re either getting a credit or losing money, so not great. I would try a split stay, since I’ve never done it, but pretty sure it wouldn’t be for us. We unpack, so it would. be a pain to have to move. So yes, all points I have to agree with. Thank you!

 

[NVDISFamily]

I wish you best of luck as you consider this purchase. You mentioned in your OP about your husband not being 100% on board. Seems like he likes some aspects about Disney and the trips, but if he will share in the effort to pay the dues and the purchase price (with the dues likely the longer term concern) then I would make sure he is excited about this purchase before making the jump. For my wife and I, we both are super excited about going down this path (just got our first points in the past few months). She even has agreed to go back to work part time (the kiddos are growing up so now is a good time to do so too) to help pay for some of this madness. Sounds like you are already factoring in dues and increases (they could double in the next 10 to 15 years). Unless the purchase and the dues are trivial for your budget/plans in the near and long future, I'd make sure all who are making the commitment are excited before doing so.

 

[RoseGold]

Mathematically, I’d rent BC points, if you can find it. Or use SAP for the 1BR. But if you love BC, then just spend more and do it.

Maybe worth mentioning that DVC doesn’t play well with last minute changes. As your kid gets older, schedules are going to change. If your kid has the dance regionals or whatever during spring break, that can really be painful. Especially if you are booking with BC points 11 months out.

For the adult stay in November, I’d price out swolphin. They can swing wildly cheap or expensive. And it’s just a hotel room that doesn’t require decades of commitment.