We bought over the phone and two months later stayed at Vero and then spent a few days at WDW (didn't use points - stayed at BC).
At Vero, we stayed in an Inn room and simply asked if we could view the other size rooms. They gave us keys to view a studio and 1 BR (which combined make a 2 BR) and told us they keep those units empty for the tours. They told us which bldg to go to and we walked over and viewed them, and then returned the keys. They also offer an Open House in a Beach Cottage each morning where they have free coffee and muffins, so we made sure we went there one morning to see that beautiful unit! The result - we are staying in one for 4 days next month - so consider yourself warned. Once you see the larger units, you just might be booking a trip in one!
When we got to WDW, we walked over to BWV and looked through the display units (we didn't go in - just looked through the windows). They would have been happy to take us in, but there was only 1 CM working the booth at that time and she was with another couple.
Jenn