Strategy with DVC Points Usage

[Replevin]

My wife and I are now the proud owners of 420 points at AKL with a March UY. 160 points are from a resale contract and the rest are direct. My question is are there tips and tricks or potential pitfalls that I should be aware of? Another way to put it as there any techniques that you've used that would be helpful in our situation? We plan on doing three five day trips a year in a one bedroom. We don't travel in the "busy" season. Any advice is appreciated. Thank you.

 

[DaveNan]

I am not sure what you mean by "busy" season. The times most difficult to book DVC do not match what many would consider "busy". DVC availability is most difficult when point costs are low. You will need to learn the DVC booking patterns. As far as season go, DVC has the Fall frenzy starting on 9/1 and going into mid Nov. The point charts are lower, the temps are lower, and the Halloween decorations are up. If you want a studio you need to book before 7 months (likely close to 11 months if your plans are not flexible.

Then the first 2 weeks in Dec, and late jan, and early May... (all lower point seasons)

Holiday weekends also tend to be in high demand (President's week, Memorial day, Labor day, NYE).....

You mentioned 1BR. That is better for availability. Those room are usually the last to be booked (highest point per guest ratio). It is rare that availability is gone before 8 months for these.

 

[DaveNan]

You also mentioned AKV. Value and Club are a different beast. Those are both VERY difficult to book, even 1BR. There are only 8 dedicated value studios and 10 lockoff -studio and or 1BR, and there are only 5 club level LO units - either studio and or 1 BR. On most mornings you will not even have a chance to book one and if you do, you will be having a speed competition with many other AKV owners. View getting one of those as a surprise, do not count or plan on getting one - even 1BR.

 

[DaveNan]

Welcome home! From an AKV neighbor!