Andrew-my family is in Loveland, OH. Is that close to you?
Here's my update right now: heading to WDW in Nov (experiencing Thanksgiving there for the 1st time & I can't wait).....I've been thinking about buying into the DVC for years now but I'm always torn as to whether it's the best idea for me or not.
and always keeping an eye out for my prince or
DP... Loveland is closer to Dayton, which is a good ways away from me. I'm closer to Cleveland, which is about four hours away from Dayton. But if you're ever visiting family, feel free to give me a shout!
Regarding the DVC, I honestly and truly think it's only a good investment if you meet ALL of the following criteria:
- You go to WDW at least once a year for no less than a week at a time, or collectively throughout the year (some folks make the arguement that it's still a good buy even if you only go once every other year, but I think that's a stretch).
- You typically stay in Deluxe accommodations (once again, some folks make the arguement even with moderate resorts, but I think this is once again a stretch).
- You must be "on-site"
- You have a specific DVC Resort that you ALWAYS prefer to stay at, or want to try numerous deluxes, of which many are DVC locations.
- You can pay for the initial purchase with cash and don't need to finance (rates for DVC purchases typically run around 10-12%).
If you meet these criteria, then DVC is, without a doubt, worth a look. If you don't meet all of these items, it still might be worthwhile for you to consider, but chances are, you might be better off taking advantage of other discounts and planning on your own. Many people aren't realistic with their situation and make the justification a stretch, and I think these are the people most likely to experience "buyers remorse" or find themselves selling their membership a few years down the road. For me, not only does DVC make sense, I think that I will also enjoy the emotional aspect of knowing I own a "piece of WDW" that I'm entitled to for 2 weeks out of the year, and I'll always have that to look forward to.
DCTooTall said:
That's one reason I ended up buying a timeshare over at Wyndham Bonnet Creek. I've considered DVC, but I just can't justify the cost. I like my resort at the Wyndham because it's actually closer/more convenient to many of the places of interest on the Disney property than some of the DVC resorts (SSR), It's an owned deed instead of a lease, It offers more ability to use it outside of the Disney area if I decided to make a trip elsewhere, and most importantly.... MUCH MUCH cheaper resale than anything I could get DVC.
DC - I've heard really good things about the Wyndham timeshares (low purchase price, better ability to use for other non-Disney sites, etc.). I've given them a close look, and while it is an attractive option, I think DVC resale is where it's at for me. It definitely is a little more money, but part of the WDW experience for me is in the Disney resorts, and I'm willing to pay a premium to take advantage of them. The initial purchase is a good hit, but when averaging the cost per trip over 50 years, it really is a bargain vs staying on property and paying out of pocket.
Seeing as how this is the singles board, I'll make this my last post on the subject. Sorry if I got a little off topic, but I've really had this "on the brain" lately, and just felt compelled to give my opinion given the interest expressed by others in this post. I'd be happy to PM anyone if they have questions or want to talk about it.
To keep it on topic, the most cost effective way into DVC is to find a prince/princess who's already a member. If there are any single, eligible DVC females out there that can save me from laying down a big chunk of cabbage.........
I had a not so great blind date tonight so I don't care what the pirates
