Seeking informed opinions on dates and strategy...

[Flyin2MCO]

So I'm thinking about taking the DVC plunge...I've found lots of good info on the boards and related sites, but I'd love some opinions on the following questions:

• Our typical travel date ranges would be Jan 25-Feb 5, Aug 25-30 or Nov 1-5...what is the "typical" history of availability 7 months out at BCV for these dates?
  
• If I'm targeting BCV, should I absolutely buy points at that home resort or can I get by with points from a "less desirable" resort and take the chance getting into choice #1 for my usual dates, knowing that there would be folks booking 4 months ahead of me?

Thanks for the help!!

 

[browniemtb]

• Our typical travel date ranges would be Jan 25-Feb 5, Aug 25-30 or Nov 1-5...what is the "typical" history of availability 7 months out at BCV for these dates?

• 
  
  The only dates here that may be trouble would be the Nov 1-5. This is F&W at Epcot and a very busy time for Epcot area and DVC as a whole. I can't see either the Jan or Aug dates an issue but I've never tried to book in that time frame.
  
  

  [*]If I'm targeting BCV, should I absolutely buy points at that home resort or can I get by with points from a "less desirable" resort and take the chance getting into choice #1 for my usual dates, knowing that there would be folks booking 4 months ahead of me?

If BCV is what you want, buy there. Rule is, "Buy where you would like to stay the most." BCV is a very demanded resort during all times of the year. With Storm A Long Bay as a draw and it being a smaller resort it may be tough with out that 4 month advantage.

But as most do, me as well, you can book your home resort at the 11 month mark and try to change the reservation at the 7 month mark. Sometimes it works....sometimes it doesn't.