I've only rented my points twice--both times I just took a personal check. Both reservations were made far enough in advance that there was plenty of time for the check to clear--had the check not cleared, I could have canceled the reservation w/out penalty (well before my banking deadlines or holding point problems)...
So, I went ahead and made the reservation both times, before the check was even mailed. (Sent the confirmation as soon as I got it, too)...both checks arrived quickly and both cleared w/out a problem.
Personally, I see no issues w/taking personal checks if there's enough time to allow for clearing (or failure to clear) ...
I don't do PayPal...have had very bad experiences w/them (having nothing to do w/
DVC)...the big advantage for the "buyer" is that if they use a credit card w/PayPal they can spread their payments to the credit card company. I didn't (and don't think I would) do spread-out payments. I asked for (and got) full payment at the time the reservation was confirmed.
Everyone's different, of course, But I just don't see the need for a cashier's check unless the timing of the reservation is too close to allow for a week after the check is received for the funds to clear...
