The DDA Trouble Free Zone

[Steamboat Marti]

Of course - quality doesn't have to be the same age as you!!!

 

[Tinkaroo]

Hi Clare -- I read everything to catch up and I wanted to come back to this to try to explain it to you... sorry to the others for a quick lesson in DVC!! Continue scrolling if you don't want to be bored

When you use points to stay at WDW, whether they are your own or rented, it is important to understand one thing: The DVC points go furthest in one of the five following DVC resorts: Old Key West, Beach Club Villas, Boardwalk Villas, Wilderness Lodge Villas and Saratoga Springs (also Vero Beach and Hilton Head, but let's stick to WDW). That means that you will use less points to stay in a nicer room than you would at POP. Here is a quick breakdown:

November 1-11 2006
Studio Room at Saratoga Springs 161 points approx $1,610

November 1-11 2006
Reg. Room at Caribbean Beach 254 points approx $2,540

You cannot use points at POP. So as you can see by the above example, DVC is best used at Villas. You can't stay in the values, the moderates are the first one that offers the ability to use points. All this comes down to one thing- why would you want to do this when the DVC resorts offer a microwave, toaster over and small fridge as well as a coffee maker and paper plates etc for much less points.

I used the example of $10 per point for renting because that appears to be the going rate. If anybody has any other questions, give me or Paul a holler.

By the way - if you are considering DVC we got our mailing today that tells us the 15% family and friends discount expires on February 1st. Just an FYI.

Okay, I'm going to jump in with some DVC questions here - I know there is a whole separate board for these, but I would appreciate this group's take, since there are so many owners (and new converts!) here.

DH and I are going to do the tour when we are there in March - DH insists we aren't going to buy yet, but we figured we would take the tour when we're there for a more extended period of time than our usual 4-5 days.

1. I know the contracts run out in the 2040s, in the 2050s if memory serves for SSR. What has Disney told you guys will happen then? Will they begin the buy-in process all over again?

2. How often do the properties go through renovations - soft goods, infrastructure, etc.?

3. Do dues automatically increase each year, and how is that increase determined? Is it determined directly by Disney, is there an owners' association, etc.?

4. How hard of a "sell" is the tour? I'd buy today, but I don't think DH is ready yet, although he does readily admit it is likely a foregone conclusion. He doesn't want to be pestered. (The one piece of Disney marketing we haven't fallen prey to yet! )

5. How many points is the standard buy-in, and how many do you think is the absolute minimum one should have?

Thanks for any help, whether on here or by PM. We also have a bit of a different consideration, as we will inherit a timeshare on Kauai from my parents one day (theirs with Marriott is by actual deed, so unless we sell, it's ours forever), so we have to weigh the possibility of paying the dues for 2 timeshares, etc.

Thanks - sorry for the long post, and for bringing up the DVC subject again!

 

[Glynis]

okay - i have a DL question

how long is the HCOE going on out there - I need to decide when we would go on our trip and this would be a major factor!!!

I do not have DH totally convinced but he is thinking about it

here is my brilliant plan -

we are going to see my sister in Denver and I have the airtran wendy's coupons so the flights are paid for - so I was thinking we could fly to Denver - spend time at my sisters

I REALLY want to go to vegas - so we would drive the 8 hours to vegas - my cousin lives there so we could spend the night with her and leave the next evening for LA -

where his best friend and my aunt live - there would be no hotel expense involved for the whole week and we would get to visit so many people and see some of the places we want to go!!

So I am going to keep my fingers crossed that he thinks the plan is as briliant as I do

I'm sure someone else has already answered this, but I believe that the celebration runs through November of this year. I'm not certain, though. I know it ends sometime in the Fall. Hope you can work it out!

 

[Steamboat Marti]

1. I know the contracts run out in the 2040s, in the 2050s if memory serves for SSR. What has Disney told you guys will happen then? Will they begin the buy-in process all over again? I don't recall ever being told what will happen then, but again, I'll be 83 so its not much of a factor!!

2. How often do the properties go through renovations - soft goods, infrastructure, etc.? I have no idea on this one either, however, I've never been disappointed in the quality of the rooms. When we took the Keys to the Kingdom tour in October our guide told us that carpet is usually replaced once a year with the older carpet donated to a good cause. But remember, for each time a CM says something, another CM will say something else.

3. Do dues automatically increase each year, and how is that increase determined? Is it determined directly by Disney, is there an owners' association, etc.? There is an annual meeting for people, however I believe it is chosen by Disney and it is usually about 6-8%.

4. How hard of a "sell" is the tour? I'd buy today, but I don't think DH is ready yet, although he does readily admit it is likely a foregone conclusion. He doesn't want to be pestered. (The one piece of Disney marketing we haven't fallen prey to yet! ) We went on the tour 3 times before we bought... none of which were a hard sell. Some of us just need longer to think it over - in my family's case, it was me!!! I realize your husband may not be ready yet, but also realize that if you buy prior to Feb 1 you would save 15%

5. How many points is the standard buy-in, and how many do you think is the absolute minimum one should have? You must purchase at least 150 points, and we have 200 and find that is a comfortable level for our family of 3.


Thanks - sorry for the long post, and for bringing up the DVC subject again!

As you can see above - I've answered your questions in bold to the best that I can. If I'm incorrect -- somebody else please help me out!!!

 

[triplefigs]

What are the extra fees for DVC above and beyond the purchase price? Can anyone give me specifics please?

How much is SSR per point. and if before 2/1 you get 15% off that?

So how much would 200 points be and the extra fees? Thanks!

 

[mommykds]

We will be off-site from August 12-19. Then I want to add some time on-site. I am trying for another whole week, but I'm not sure where I stand on that until I do some budgeting.

There are so many things that have changed in the last two years. I have some idea, but I'm hoping that you can clarify a couple of things to start. (I know I should go ask these question on the "proper" board, but you are so knowlegeable).

When can I start making ADR's? Is it 6 months in advance now? Is there a date calculator somewhere for that? I know there used to be, but I don't remember where. I heard a while ago that you could make ADR's for 10 days out starting with the first day you were staying on site without waiting for each day to be the "right" date. Do you know if that is still true? It will only help for the second part of the trip, but better than nothing.

Is there a pass available for more than 10 days (other than an AP)?

For budget reasons, I'm thinking of putting all 5 of us in one room at POR. I know that will be quite a squeeze, especially after having a 2-bedroom. Do you think that's crazy? For just a little bit more, I could get 2 rooms at one of the values, but we've never stayed in the values, so I don't know what to expect there. Contemporary appears sold-out for the majority of that week, and I'd pretty much have to cut that part of the trip in half to go Poly. Any suggestions there? We stayed at POR when it was Dixie Landings (in 1998) and really liked it. That is the kids first choice, too (if we can't go deluxe).

Beth

Beth, we just stayed in POR in Oct (we are 5) & it was fine. There is enough room for sleeping with the trundle. It was a very pleasant resort. The boat to DTD was fun. Also the surrey bikes are great to rent too.

As far as the adr's...now its 180 days before & if you are staying at a Disney resort you get the +10...you can call on the 180th day & get 10 days of adr's. I kinda like the old 90 day deal...180 days is too far out for me.

 

[tmfranlk]

Thanks Becky (and Amy). I am driving myself NUTS! I hate when I get in these moods, and then the weight thing just put me over the edge I suppose. I have a long day tomorrow, too, but after that a four day weekend... which is good, because I REALLY need to get organized. I think once I get back in a routine and into the books, workouts, etc I will feel much better. My OCD personality doesn't do well without days planned to the minute!

Don't worry too much Jennifer. You'll be back on track faster than you know. Just settle back into being home and you'll be good to go.

 

[eeyore45]

What are the extra fees for DVC above and beyond the purchase price? Can anyone give me specifics please?

How much is SSR per point. and if before 2/1 you get 15% off that?

So how much would 200 points be and the extra fees? Thanks!

I admit it, I've been reading the DVC board!!! Have you checked out the resale page here? http://www.dvc-resales.com/dvclisting.cfm

I know that doesnt help with the annual dues/fees question you had... but its a start!!

I'm thinking about renting points for our next vacation to "test the waters" then see... you never know tho do you?!!

 

[Tinkaroo]

As you can see above - I've answered your questions in bold to the best that I can. If I'm incorrect -- somebody else please help me out!!!

Thanks, Marti for the candid (and quick!) answers. I was with my parents when they decided to buy theirs in Kauai a couple of years ago, and I think I was the one with all the questions - they were ready to just plunk the $$ down! I like to have ALL the facts, and am at least glad we'll take the tour.

I'm interested to see the response to Denise's question. I don't think we would ever buy "site unseen", but it's good to weigh the options. Maybe if I could win the lottery by 2/1...

 

[Steamboat Marti]

I admit it, I've been reading the DVC board!!! Have you checked out the resale page here? http://www.dvc-resales.com/dvclisting.cfm

I know that doesnt help with the annual dues/fees question you had... but its a start!!

I'm thinking about renting points for our next vacation to "test the waters" then see... you never know tho do you?!!

The thing I do know about resale is that you don't qualify for the Disney incentives (currently 15% off) and the other thing is that you can't finance through Disney...

However, I'm not 100% sure about these answers.... I'll be back soon.

 

[tmfranlk]

I got twenty pages to catch up on. Hope I can through them before I decide to get to bed.

I found out why I was nauseous, stomach ache, had to pee quite often and my back hurts. Before anyone gets hopeful I am not pregnant. I have a UTI. The only reason this was figured out was because I had a physical and drug test yesterday for my new job. They said I had bacteria in my drug test sample and told me I should go to my doctor. So I go today and that is the verdict.

I probably never would have went had I not had the physical yesterday. I could attribute all of those symptoms to other things. nauseous/stomach ache-had cramps and the stomach bug is going around lots of people have the stomach bug. I have been drinking lots more trying to drink my water hence the need to pee more often. As for the backache- Also one of my normal PMS symptoms and also I have helped move some furniture and started hurting after that. Shows what I know.

Becky

Becky

Yuck! I hate UTI's. I am glad that it is something easily treatable though. Take care of yourself.

 

[Tammi67]

here you go Tammi

I don't know how you do it Kate. You are truly amazing. Thank you so much. You should see my autographs books. They really look great. What a good idea you had.

 

[Tammi67]

Yes, we just layered shirts, and it worked perfectly! Then the kids can wear the shirts year round. Some days it was so warm we wore just the t-shirts and shorts, and some days we had on long sleeve t's underneath with jackets. You have to pack for every scenario. BTW, love the new pic!

We wore turtlenecks under ours, all but 2 days.

 

[babytrees]

okay - i have a DL question

how long is the HCOE going on out there - I need to decide when we would go on our trip and this would be a major factor!!!

I do not have DH totally convinced but he is thinking about it

here is my brilliant plan -

we are going to see my sister in Denver and I have the airtran wendy's coupons so the flights are paid for - so I was thinking we could fly to Denver - spend time at my sisters

I REALLY want to go to vegas - so we would drive the 8 hours to vegas - my cousin lives there so we could spend the night with her and leave the next evening for LA -

where his best friend and my aunt live - there would be no hotel expense involved for the whole week and we would get to visit so many people and see some of the places we want to go!!

So I am going to keep my fingers crossed that he thinks the plan is as briliant as I do

I love that plan!! If you need help in CO just give a holler!!

 

[Steamboat Marti]

What are the extra fees for DVC above and beyond the purchase price? Can anyone give me specifics please?

How much is SSR per point. and if before 2/1 you get 15% off that?

So how much would 200 points be and the extra fees? Thanks!

Denise - hunka sent you a PM...

 

[Tammi67]

Since it seems like many of you live close by your families, I thought maybe you might have a suggestion or two.

My SIL just contacted me, seeking advice on creating boundaries with the rest of our husbands' family. (DH is the youngest of 3 boys, and his parents, both brothers, and their wives and 2 children each all live in the Houston metro area - we live 300 miles away in the Dallas area. This SIL is married to the oldest brother of my DH.) They all tend to do a lot together, but my SIL is getting worn down from all of this, as it is usually her house they all gather at at the drop of a hat, etc. Her DH will complain on the side to her about his family and this, but won't stand up to anyone. Our DH's are very different - my DH draws boundaries very clearly with his family, plus we have the extra geographical cushion.

How do those of you with families that live in the same city draw/keep boundaries (particularly if it's your IL's)?


Thanks - I'm at a bit of a loss when she tells me her DH isn't much help.

Sorry, I can't help you. We live 300 miles from the closet family member (my parents). I just wanted to wish you luck.

 

[lovespoohbear]

This is for anyone who might not see the general board, I just wanted to get some feedback over here too.

Ok I am so confused right now. I need someone to give me an unbiased opinion. Heres the story...

Last October I took my 4th grader, 1st grader, & nursery school kids out of school for 3 days during the Rosh Hashana week (It was from 10/1-10/10) since the following monday was Columbus day, we got a 10 day vacation where I only took them out for 3 days. ...

Our school policy states that the child cannot have ANY unexcused absences. If they do & there is a test on that day they are given a "zero". They are not allowed to be given assignments ahead of time & anything they miss while they are out is a "zero" . So, to work around what I consider to be a ridiculous rule I called my 2 older ones in sick for the 3 days. (which I found out alot of people in my school district did too, some of which I saw at Disney!) My kids did not mention the trip to their teachers as the teachers are required to report any unexcused absences they know about. They returned to school, luckily since it was the Jewish New Year there was no or little homework that week & Friday was "fun Friday" doing crafts & stuff so it was a "easy week". All went well & the kids did great on their report cards in November.

Ok fast forward to now..I was very stressed out about taking them out & decided this year we would go in late August. Well my DH may have a conference then so now my mind is going back to October . (we had such a good time at MNSSHP & really wanted to do it again!)

I was looking at 9/30-10/9. There is Yom Kipper & Columbus day in there so we would get a 10 day vacation at Disney but I would have to take them out for 4 days. (They would then be 5th, 2nd, & K at the time). There's no way to "ask" if I can take them out for a "family situation" so i would have to call them in sick again (which makes me very nervous already). So I'd be calling out 3 kids all in the same school for 4 days. My DH believes that we should take them out since they are all doing well. I do too, but the school policy is so strict I don't want to make it hard on my children when they go back. I am not worried about them academically I just don't want the teacher or principal to give them a hard time if they found out. Fortunately the first week is very slow & there is not alot of homework due to the Jewish holidays....Ok Mom's & Dad's (grandmas, grandpas, aunts, uncles, etc, etc) Give me your opinion on this one. I am a nervous wreck over this . Thanks DDA!

if it is the first week of school i say go for it becuase first week of school nothing really happens anyway. if academacally they are doing well. go for it.

 

[Tammi67]

What are the extra fees for DVC above and beyond the purchase price? Can anyone give me specifics please?

How much is SSR per point. and if before 2/1 you get 15% off that?

So how much would 200 points be and the extra fees? Thanks!

Denise, this is exactly what we bought and if you wait about 45 minutes, I will post the expenditures for you. I need to run Nicholas to Karate and then I will be back.

 

[triplefigs]

Denise, this is exactly what we bought and if you wait about 45 minutes, I will post the expenditures for you. I need to run Nicholas to Karate and then I will be back.

Thanks. Does Nicholas like karate? Davis and Rees are starting the first week in March.

 

[Tinkaroo]

Denise, this is exactly what we bought and if you wait about 45 minutes, I will post the expenditures for you. I need to run Nicholas to Karate and then I will be back.

I'd love to see these, too! Thanks, Tammi, if you post, or if you wouldn't mind PM'ing them to me. You guys are great!