We always stay at a home away from home resort(BWV) and I love check-in. The welcome home speech always kicks our trip off perfectly. Do you miss getting that when you check in online? I like the idea of potientially having a room waiting for me when I get there but don't want to miss it.
DVC's are a little different; whether you check in-line or not, they still don't start doling out rooms until later in the day.
The potential for available rooms at the regular resorts is a different story though.