The "Oh So Hard To Book" first half of December

[skfulkers]

Ok, here's a question for all the DVC experts.
We're tossing around the idea of doing a December trip this year with my DW's parents. We're definitely looking at renting points from a DVC member because we've done this before and I know a 2-bdrm villa would be perfect for our group. My question is this: we obviously haven't booked any ressies yet, so what do you think are the chances of finding a 2-bdrm villa available for the 2nd full week of December (the 12th-19th) if we wait until June to start looking for a member to rent points? We've been tp WDW this week of the year before and I know that it is a busy time for the DVC resorts, but if we were willing to stay at any DVC property (preferably OKW or SSR), do you think anything would be available?
I know that you can never be certain about availability, but I was interested to see if anyone has any experience with this type of situation or basically just what your opinions are.
Thanks in advance!

Steve

 

[dianeschlicht]

There probably is not much available right now, but as we get closer, there might be. Folks will book at the 11 month mark, and then cancel before their banking deadline if they have a change of heart. I think There is a chance, but you wont know until you try.

 

[Pa@okw95]

June is 6 months out-why not do it now before the 7 month mark when all units before all units become availabale to all members, at 5 months out you don't need a member to rent points from you can just call CRO and do it yourself. At 5 months evedrything opens up to the general public, I believe.

 

[HookdonWDW]

Since your top two choices are the biggest resort and the resort that will still be declaring units into inventory, you probably have a better-than-usual chance of getting a room.

The biggest problem is that you might have to go on a waitlist to get some of your days if you wait until the 7 month window opens up, and then you might have trouble finding someone who is willing to make such an uncertain reservation for you.

 

[DebbieB]

Originally posted by Pa@okw95
June is 6 months out-why not do it now before the 7 month mark when all units before all units become availabale to all members, at 5 months out you don't need a member to rent points from you can just call CRO and do it yourself. At 5 months evedrything opens up to the general public, I believe.

Unrented points rooms go to CRO 60 days prior.

Renting points would probably be cheaper than CRO. A 2 bedroom for 7 nights at OKW from Dec 1 to 14 would be 218 points. At $10 per point, that would be $2,180. Rack rate including tax would be $3,739.

 

[CarolMN]

Originally posted by HookdonWDW
...(snip)....The biggest problem is that you might have to go on a waitlist to get some of your days if you wait until the 7 month window opens up, and then you might have trouble finding someone who is willing to make such an uncertain reservation for you.

I agree with this statement. Most owners who rent will not want to tie up their points hoping that a waitlist will come through. There are too many other opportunities to rent that won't require a waitlist. FWIW, last year there was at least one poster who got on the waitlist early in the process (10 1/2 months) that didn't get anything until very close to arrival, although that was for a standard view at the BWV. As mentioned, OKW & SSR may be easier, but IMHO, not if you wait until June or later. The first half of December is among the more difficult times to book WDW DVC resorts. IMHO, only NYE is more difficult.

My advice is to start looking for an owner willing to rent now. If you can't commit yet or don't want to make a big deposit now, make a back up plan (perhaps two connecting rooms at one of the non-DVC WDW resorts?) if you really want to go that week.

Best wishes -

 

[Duckielucky]

I have points at the Boardwalk and the Beach Club. Two weeks ago I tried to book at the board walk for Dec 5-10. Totally booked up. I was able to book the Beach Club for Dec. 6-10 and wait listed for the 5th. After a week the 5th came open.

The first two weeks in December are very popular with VC members because the rates are the lowest of the year, the weather is good, the Christmas decorations are up and the crowds are at a minimum.

I suggest that you make your reservations now. You may have to get on a wait list.

Anyone else staying at the BC Dec. 5-10?

 

[Lori in CNY]

We tried to book the week of December 4th thru the 11th at our home resort VWL at the 11 month window. All studios were already booked and we're currently on a waitlist. We got a room the day we check in and some days in between but we're waitlisting to get a complete week!!!

Hope we get it !! It's my hubby's b-day and our first trip ever to see the Christmas festivities!!!

 

[Lexxiefern]

Originally posted by Duckielucky

Anyone else staying at the BC Dec. 5-10?

Yep. We will be there those exact dates in a one bedroom.

To the OP, I would definately try to find a renter now to secure dates for you.