Think I've decided I will sell my membership

[JimMIA]

Really? I sent an email with a couple of questions to the agent I had been communicating with on Friday morning. I had hoped to get a quick reply and then get an offer in before the weekend.

Patience, patience.

Yes, they're open. The individual agent you were talking to may be off, but the office is open and staffed. Anyone there can help you; they all work closely together. Give them a call.

 

[wendybeth75]

We're planning on making an offer on a contract via resale in the next week or so. We actually would prefer a stripped contract as we have a trip planned for May 2015 (14 night WBPC) and are not planning on vacationing before then, so have no need for "immediate" points. A stripped contract saves us a little money as we wouldn't have to pay MF right away.

Same reasoning for us. We have a FD BB planned in October and want points for next year. We didn't want to pay MF since we are already booked in Oct and sought out a stripped contract that was less PP and no MF.

 

[disneyguyla]

This is simply not true. Secondly, the person trying to buy a contract in a hurry so they can take an immediate trip a) is not thinking about the most important aspects of timeshare ownership; b) if they know anything about DVC, they realize they can borrow points for a vacation just like you did; and c) is certainly not the only type of prospective buyer out there. Also -- just FYI, The Timeshare Store IS open on weekends -- which means they are available for your questions, listings, etc. Much more important, they will be available on Saturday or Sunday for prospective buyers to BUY your contract...unlike lesser brokers.

Disagree, from what I was told by Timeshare store, it's never a good idea to sell with no points because you will have to pay MF, because you the owner use the points and the buyer is not obligated to pay, so it does put that seller at a disadvantage with others that are for sale.

 

[JimMIA]

Disagree, from what I was told by Timeshare store, it's never a good idea to sell with no points because you will have to pay MF, because you the owner use the points and the buyer is not obligated to pay, so it does put that seller at a disadvantage with others that are for sale.

First of all, there is absolutely nothing about DVC that is true 100% of the time -- on any aspect of buying, owning, or selling.

Second -- MF's have nothing to do with points usage. Nothing. MF's are the apportioned expenses of the resort for a calendar year. Now, a seller or buyer may choose to try to make the MFs go with the points as a negotiating strategy -- but that is a matter of negotiation, not some hard and fast rule. Everything is negotiable in a resale.

Third -- directly above your response, in the short space of two hours, are three different posts from buyers who actually preferred stripped contracts. And, as I mentioned above, the borrowing aspect of DVC is available if current year points are not available.

 

[disneyguyla]

First of all, there is absolutely nothing about DVC that is true 100% of the time -- on any aspect of buying, owning, or selling. Second -- MF's have nothing to do with points usage. Nothing. MF's are the apportioned expenses of the resort for a calendar year. Now, a seller or buyer may choose to try to make the MFs go with the points as a negotiating strategy -- but that is a matter of negotiation, not some hard and fast rule. Everything is negotiable in a resale. Third -- directly above your response, in the short space of two hours, are three different posts from buyers who actually preferred stripped contracts. And, as I mentioned above, the borrowing aspect of DVC is available if current year points are not available.

You sound like you do not like DVC, but my response to the OP is still the same, it's better to wait and load it with points and get top dollar when selling .

 

[JimMIA]

You sound like you do not like DVC, but my response to the OP is still the same, it's better to wait and load it with points and get top dollar when selling .

Actually, I do like DVC. My whole family are fans; we've made at least 30 DVC trips.

I think you may have missed my rationale for selling now in a post early in the thread, so I'll restate it.

• OP has not used their DVC in four years.
• In January 2015, they will have to pay annual dues of at least $6 per point.
• While I agree a loaded contract is more attractive, there can be factors that outweigh the fact that two of them are stripped. Regardless of what one agent at TTS told you (and I am one of the biggest TTS fans here on the DIS), history indicates situations that can overcome the stripped contract question.
• I can't imagine OP getting a premium greater than $6 per point for a contract with all current year points.
• Resale prices are relatively high right now, so to delay carries the risk of a price decline over a year's time. I personally think that risk is pretty darn high.
• Therefore, it makes no sense to me for them to continue to hold a contract they have not used in four years.

 

[Msmithmd]

I would agree with Jim, that if you closely follow the ROFR thread, the resale market tends to over-value stripped contracts and under-value loaded ones, versus the objective value of those points on the rental market.

Since there aren't any fees associated with listing a contract for sale with any reputable broker, it would be very reasonable for the OP to list their contract now. They can always adjust the price upward in the future if the next UY rolls around. But with 100 point contracts, I don't think that will occur.

 

[disneyguyla]

Actually, I do like DVC. My whole family are fans; we've made at least 30 DVC trips. I think you may have missed my rationale for selling now in a post early in the thread, so I'll restate it. [*]OP has not used their DVC in four years. [*]In January 2015, they will have to pay annual dues of at least $6 per point. [*]While I agree a loaded contract is more attractive, there can be factors that outweigh the fact that two of them are stripped. Regardless of what one agent at TTS told you (and I am one of the biggest TTS fans here on the DIS), history indicates situations that can overcome the stripped contract question.[*]I can't imagine OP getting a premium greater than $6 per point for a contract with all current year points. [*]Resale prices are relatively high right now, so to delay carries the risk of a price decline over a year's time. I personally think that risk is pretty darn high. [*]Therefore, it makes no sense to me for them to continue to hold a contract they have not used in four years.

The bottom line in the end the OP has to make the decision to sell or not, but they asked for our opinions and that is all we can do to help right or wrong by giving it. But they will have to make the choice. I think we all agree on that.

 

[DVCMomBLT]

Disagree, from what I was told by Timeshare store, it's never a good idea to sell with no points because you will have to pay MF, because you the owner use the points and the buyer is not obligated to pay, so it does put that seller at a disadvantage with others that are for sale.

This is not true. A stripped contract will normally sell for less, but there is a reason it sells for less. Not simply because it is "less desirable." But because it has less to offer than a loaded contract. That "loaded contract" comes with a cost for both the buyer and seller. You are not giving accurate advice.

 

[DVCMomBLT]

Here is a simple example for BLT:

Stripped = no current year points
Regular = all current year points
Loaded = all last year + current year points

Stripped = $85
Regular = $90
Loaded = $95

So right now, the seller of a stripped contract might get $85. If your advice is to sell it next year for $90 when he has full points, there is a carrying/opportunity cost associated with that. To get another $5, he may have to pay close to $5 in carrying/opp cost.

 

[*pixie*]

Well said, JimMIA.

 

[Sur]

We wanted stripped, for the point made earlier- any further contracts are add ons and since we planned carefully, we are set for vacations this and following years. We're always watching for an add on, but it appears that stripped small contracts pass ROFR more easily. We also enjoy not paying current year maintenance fees. One last point, when DVC contract prices have increased (within the past year), the resale prices went up. The resale contracts we bought, which became useful this year, are significantly higher priced than last year. If we would have waited for a current contract, the cost would have been thousands more.

 

[ToddyLu]

I had to chuckle with this thread. Questioning JimMIA's knowledge on DVC and his analysis of the ins and outs... is like questioning Einstein about relativity or Walt about animation. * I could include many more, but...just sayin'

*Questioning if DVCMike takes great pics, Wrdl ( I think that's it) really knows about DVC sales and Dean about timeshares in general...and well anything that Robo has said, recommended, posted as an aerial shot, etc.

 

[Luv2PixieDust]

I have a DVC membership and haven't used it since 2010. My youngest was 3 at the time and newly diagnosed with autism and we did great due to keeping him in a stroller at that age plus it was possible to enjoy the parks thanks to the GAC. Once Disney eliminated that, you go back to waiting like everyone else which my son cannot tolerate and would result in numerous meltdowns. That's not my idea of a good time.

I've borrowed to rent out most of my points and realize those with low immediate availability are less desirable for purchase. Am I going to be far better off waiting until next year to have substantially more points available for immediate use?

I also have an autistic son. And although each autistic child is different, I think I know a bit of what you are going through. A lot of people don’t realize the daily challenges we go through. And for vacation?....well…..that takes A LOT more planning and accommodating than what many people may realize. But in all honesty I do find it a bit sad that you are letting autism be a driver in your decision. Maybe it makes me sad because my child’s needs may change as he gets older and I may also face that decision. Maybe it makes me sad because autism (once again) impacts our lives in ways that we wish it didn’t.

We actually bought into DVC at BLT because of my son’s autism. Being walking distance from the Magic Kingdom so we can make a quick escape; having a kitchen to accommodate his very limited diet; larger accommodations so he can stim and release his energy when he needs to.

I know that you may have already made up your mind, but it sounds as though you have not been to WDW since 2010. I’ve read many positive experiences about the new FP+ and DAS system. And the DISabilities Board has given us great advice. Perhaps you should take one final ‘farewell’ trip. The new FP+ system may work into your favor in that you’ll have a schedule of what rides you’ll be on when. Perhaps create a story board or visual calendar with the rides and breaks (bathroom, ice cream, drink, ect)? I know that some don’t like the new FP+ and DAS system but in all honesty there will always be people that complain. For us, Disney is one of the only places that will actually go out of their way to accommodate a special needs child. And while it may take a lot of planning on our end it is worth the effort.

Please keep in mind that although your son is now older you can still have him in a push chair. We bought ours from adaptivemall.com (the brand we chose was Sweet Tomatoes). I have seen chairs that go up to 170 lbs or more. At Guest Relations they can give you a sticker to use it as a wheel chair for an alternate entrance and his seat during shows. We found this invaluable to give our son a sense of personal space and he wouldn’t get tired and irritable (as quickly) compared to walking. And since he is a runner we knew he was safer in his chair. The chairs can be pricey but we found it as an investment and use it at the mall and other places where the stimulation may be a bit much for him.

Whatever you decide I wish you and your family the best.

 

[bcvlover]

Would vero beach or hilton head be a less stressful vacation?

 

[hollyakinney]

He's the kind that when he sees something, he wants to get in line for it then and now rather than having to come back for it. He goes to speech/occupational therapy weekly and has great resources at school, yet the waiting/meltdowns are a major issue (as is aggression at times).

We have the same problems with our 7 year old son. The new program is NOT as easy to use as the GAC. You end up walking about double the amount because you have to go back to the kiosk after each ride and they only have 1 per land.. It's exhausting especially if you dealing with a meltdown passing all the attractions your child want to go on! We bought a season pass and then found they changes their program!! Fail

 

[appleorchard]

You should sell it, but not with no points in this use year, No buyer will buy it without being able to go on vacation as soon as they buy it. You need to quit borrowing points and let them build up again. You will still have to pay annual dues this year and most likely next year because of all the points being gone. Good luck .

Not necessarily. We sold our BLT points (two contracts), both stripped, within two weeks. We got a premium price for both. However, they were both small contracts, which do sell for a premium anyway.

 

[SueM in MN]

Sorry, can you please explain GAC and DAS?

since there are a lot of questions on this thread about DAS, I thought it might be helpful to the OP (and others) to add some information.

Follow the link in my signature to the disABILITIES Board. There is a thread about DAS (Disability Access Service) at WDW near the top of the disABILITIES Board.
There is a separate thread about DAS at Disneyland because the program is the same at both, but differences in the parks, such as Fastpass Plus at WDW, mean things work a bit differently.

The first post of each thread is DAS FAQs.

Another poster added a link to the Disney blog about DAS. That was actually from when it was rolled out in October 2013. There is updated information on the Disney website here:
https://wdpromedia.disney.go.com/me...Disability-Access-Service-Card-2014-04-10.pdf

WDW also recently updated the information for guests with cognitive disabilities on their website here:
https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/guest-services/cognitive-disabilities-services/
That page also included links to a larger guidebook for guests with cognitive disabilities (I have found some of the links to go to the guidebook are broken, but most work. So if you get a 'page not found' message, just try another one of the links.

Yeah, I was thinking that after I wrote it. If there are two adults, could one run ahead to get the DAS reservation so the he doesn't have to go to the ride himself? Also, I thought I read somewhere that there will be some DAS kiosks so that you can go there rather than the ride itself, although I am not 100% on this.

I think that FP+ may actually be better for you than old FP as you can plan ahead more. I also recommend a nice sit down meal during the day, even better if it is a character meal so you can avoid having to queue for those as well! But I am probably telling you what you already know!

It's a tricky one but it seems a shame for you to have to stop going. I assume your son likes going? I know our daughter loves it, I think she likes the sensory stimulation although I know some are the other way. Good luck whatever you decide.

The DAS kiosks are actually at Disneyland, not at WDW.
But, you are correct that someone else can go ahead with the DAS card and get a Return Time without the disabled person being present.

DAS is meant to be used with Fastpass (or Fastpass Plus at WDW) and does work best when used together. Most people are scheduling their Fastpass Plus times and then filling the times in between with DAS Return Times and attractions with shorter waits. It sounds more confusing than it is.

 

[sndral]

I have a DVC membership and haven't used it since 2010. My youngest was 3 at the time and newly diagnosed with autism and we did great due to keeping him in a stroller at that age plus it was possible to enjoy the parks thanks to the GAC. Once Disney eliminated that, you go back to waiting like everyone else which my son cannot tolerate and would result in numerous meltdowns. That's not my idea of a good time.

I've borrowed to rent out most of my points and realize those with low immediate availability are less desirable for purchase. Am I going to be far better off waiting until next year to have substantially more points available for immediate use?

We've rented them out the past 4 years. I love Disney. My wife and kids love Disney. However, I find Disney as a vacation to be a lot of "work" and a lot of waiting, which my son tolerates very little of. (Depending on the mood, he'll start screaming just being stopped at a red light in the van).

I'll have to talk it over with the wife some more.

This is a nice place, but after splitting the drive over 2 days each way, the last thing I really want to do is just be at the hotels. If you figure what your trip really costs (purchase + annual dues). Then if you do the park tickets for 10 days for 5 people and not make the most of your time, you're throwing a lot of money and not making the most use of it IMO.

I think this is less about WDW changing from GAC to DAS (since OP has not experienced the latter) and more about DVC being a bad fit for OP - who I believe bought in '09, and hasn't used his points since '10. @ least he's rented them out and covered MFs plus some extra. OP's post about the expense of WDW vacations highlights the reality that even with having your room taken care of, WDW is an expensive vacation and when you buy DVC you are committing a lot of future vacation dollars to WDW visits w/ the cost of tickets and the like.