Hi everyone! I'm on the fence about getting a
DVC. Can anyone tell me if SSR is a good resort and what it's like in the Grand Villa?
SSR is one of my very favorites. It's beautifully decorated, has lots of things to do, is within walking distance of DTD, and the grounds are breathtaking. The Grand Villas look awesome, though I've never stayed in one. Here's a link that will allow you to take a virtual tour of SSR and take you on a room tour of a Grand Villa, Studio, 1-BR and 2-BRs.
http://dvc.disney.go.com/dvc/guest/resorts/resortDetail?id=ProspectsSaratogaSpringsLandingPage
Would it be better to get this room w/ cash instead of points (only staying for 5 days and won't be staying often)
Depending on the season, a GV at SSR runs anywhere from $1,170 to $1,645 per night. For a 6 night stay during peak time checking in on Saturday and checking out on Friday, it would cost $9,956.25 ($1,475 per night + 12.5% tax).
To purchase enough points to rent a GV every 3 years (727 points) for the same week would require you to own 243 points. You could bank/borrow and that would give you 729 points every 3 years. On the resale market, you could get 243 SSR points for approximately $20,169 ($83 per point) + $1,023 in MFs (4.21 per point * 243). Closing costs and other fees can usually be negotiated. The $1,023 would be an on-going expense annually and usually goes up 3-5% every year. With that said, it would take you going twice to pay for the contract. After that, you'd only pay MFs and still get the GV every 3rd year until 2054. Should your needs change, you can use those same points to rent a studio, 1-BR or 2-BR, which require less points, every year or every other year. GVs can be a points hog, as you could rent 2 2-BRs for about 80 points less and sleep an additional 4 people.
Also, can anyone tell me how the international and non-Disney park trips work? (ie: African Safaris and Ski and Beach Trips) Are these worth it through DVC? How many points do they generally take up? Thanx in advance!!!
Most people will tell you not to invest in DVC to trade out. Buy enough points to cover the trips you want to take to WDW or Disney Land and purchase a different timeshare for trading through II. The intial buy-in is cheaper, MFs are cheaper and trading power is as good if not better. The trips with tour guides are expensive - 300 - 500 points per person. II trades are somewhere around 270 points for a 2-BR for a week. BIL/SIL have traded out many times and have really enjoyed their trades.
If you really think a GV is what you're looking for, consider purchasing at OKW. You'll need the 11 month booking advantage, but GVs are a great value. The same 6 days I mentioned about would have cost 492 points as opposed to SSR's 727. Sleeps same number of people.
Good luck!!!
