WDW Vet just returned from my first GCV stay

[hootey]

Congratulations on a Great Birthday DL trip!
We love staying at the Grand or the Disney Hotel, each has its own atmosphere and the hotel staffs are amazing

 

[Nonsuch]

...I assume I have to backtrack to the DVC owner and ask them to request a room on my behalf?

Your assumption is correct
The DVC owner must contact Member Services on your behalf. They may call or email, I use the email feature on the DVC site.

I have hade good results sending a list of villa numbers.
Search the VGC Superthread for “6502” for view suggestions

Assuming you want a World of Color view:
6502 (6th floor)
5508 (slightly better angle to WOC than x502)
5502, 4508, 4502, 3508, 3502
5514 (no WOC view, facing Redwood Creek, very quiet)
4514, 3514