If one is comparing DVC ownership with staying annually at a Disney deluxe or moderate hotel, then, yes, DVC can be economical, depending on when you usually vacation and the size DVC unit you use.
But if one is comparing a stay in an offsite hotel (a good hotel deal, as mentioned in the original post) to DVC membership, I'm sorry, DVC is just not economical. We've owned DVC timeshare membership and we've owned other deeded timeshares (and still do). DVC is decidedly more expensive, just as Disney hotels are more expensive than their offsite counterparts. This is not to say that DVC does not offer
terrific places to vacation. They are just not the likely answer to "a good hotel deal" IMHO.
MiniMissMinnie, if you know when you plan to vacation, feel free to email me and I could suggest a referral for Marriott or perhaps, some other timeshare villa resort in the area. Don't overlook the possible rental of DVC points from some DVC owner on the Rent/Trade forum here -
IF your planned vacation is in Sept, Jan, or May and/or is during weeknights, rather than Fri/Sat nights. Wish you well in finding that perfect situation.
Lisa P.
potter@a-o.com