Why not buy the cheapest home resort??

[eporter66]

I bought into DVC so I could stay in a deluxe resort in Disney. DVC makes the point that you can use all the resorts as long as their is availability, that is part of the sales package. Our home is SSR, but I plan on trying as many of the resorts as I can during the span of our membership.

As with the earlier discussion, everyone states that you should buy where you want to stay. In buying where you want to stay, you are picking what you feel is the best location, most appealing theme, or whatever. So a few $ difference in dues should not make a big deal. I also assume that having the the 3 months booking prior to anyone else assures you that you will always have a spot at your home resort.

 

[DeeP]

I must think you have a problem with DVC participating with II then or at least with anyone exchanging in.

Actually I do not because I do not think of my DVC membership as something I would consider trading out for; I have NO problems using every pt every year right at WDW, even with add ons, LOL!!! I know, I am NOT a timeshare savvy except regarding DVC and that is okay because that is how I am happy. I never even considered a timeshare until it was through Disney. I bought a timeshare only because it was at WDW and I guess I never really considered it a money making investment to wheel and deal with until recently reading some DVC related items on the internet.
I am just glad I bought where I really wanted to be while at WDW. I bought with my heart and I am extremely happy in how my DVC memberships at BWV have steadily mantianied and increased their value both emotionally and financially for us!!

 

[MiaSRN62]

I am just glad I bought where I really wanted to be while at WDW. I bought with my heart and I am extremely happy in how my DVC memberships at BWV have steadily mantianied and increased their value both emotionally and financially for us!!

Well then this is great for the lot of us Deep ! Because we all feel the same way about all of our purchases too
I will continue to use my points at OKW, as well as using them at the other DVC resorts also---as long as I can. May I ask---have you had difficulty getting ressies at BW and if so, during what time period ? I'm trying to understand your feelings for being so critical into using points at resorts other than your "home".

 

[DeeP]

I'm trying to understand your feelings for being so critical into using points at resorts other than your "home".

Maybe I am not making this clear enough.............I am addressing ONLY the sceniaro that a DVC member bought at the cheapest WDW DVC resort with the intent of staying 95% of every WDW trip at a higher dues priced DVC resort on a regular basis and had no intention of staying at the cheaper DVC resort but bought at the cheaper resort solely to save money yet to still use the added amenities, conveniences, guest services etc that the higher priced DVC dues resort provides.

 

[PamOKW]

So what? What you are describing is someone who bought into the Disney Vacation Club program at a resort where they got a good price and for which they are currently paying dues that are less than the dues paid at some of the other DVC resorts. They use their points to stay at a resort of their choosing that is available at the 7 month mark (or more if they book their home resort). That is exactly how the program works. They are not "cheating" anyone or causing harm to any other member.

Another scenario -- A member bought into BCV with the minimum of 150 points. They want to use BCV for most of their trips but they also know that they are planning to hold a family reunion and will book a GV at OKW. Should I stamp my feet because they are using "my" resort and taking something away from me? How about they bought those 150 points with the intention of staying at BCV every third year but pooling those points in the other years to book a week at Christmas at OKW because 150 points wouldn't be enough for them to stay at BCV at that time?

The program is what it is -- it was clearly laid out. As mentioned, DVC itself has always sold the entire program, not just individual resorts.

 

[tjkraz]

You know, as I'm reading through this lengthy and wonderfully informative thread, I keep coming back to one thought. Who are we to try and police how other DVC users spend their points, as long as it falls within the guidelines that DVC established on DAY ONE.

It's one thing to ask "what do you like" or "what do you dislike" about a resort / pool / DVC in general. But it's another thing to attack people who utilize their points within the limits that apply to us all.

What's next?

"How DARE you only use points on Sunday thru Thursday when it's cheap!!!"

"The NERVE of people booking those Grand Villas when they only have 8 people in their party!!!"

"They should do something about DVCers who visit at Christmas EVERY YEAR!!!"

You know, whether true or not, it's starting to sound like nothing more than sour grapes from a BCV owner who doesn't like to share his/her resort. I guess the 4 months of booking exclusivity just isn't enough. Heaven forbid those nasty OKW owners crawl out of their slum and take up space at BCV.

Well, I can tell you that I am one PROUD SSR owner. I'm also an SSR owner that just this morning booked his first stay as a DVC member. Hopefully they will give us the best studio that the Beach Club Villas has to offer!!!

 

[KANSAS]

TJKRAZ
LOL, one of the best posts ever

 

[dyingtodisney]

First of all I agree with TJKRAZ that some people have gone off the DEEP end trying to point fingers and police what should not even be a problem...

DEEP- I really don't see why you're bent out of shape with other resort owners messing up your vacations, if you are having problems with reservations 11-8 months out your beef should be with fellow BWV owners not others! If you are having problems booking 7 months and sooner than that's your fault for not taking advantage of your priority booking period.

If I would have read this thread before purchasing it might have seriously made me reconsider, it makes it sound like the guides are touting a perk that members find offensive if you use it, I definitely wouldn't have wanted to step on anyones toes. However this IS the current system, if people don't like it that way they shouldn't have bought it.

Yes I'm one of these New SSR members that people are so worried about crowding the system but ya know what I'm very excited to be less than a week away from booking at SSR. I also am realistic enough to know that if I happen to want to book a ressie somewhere else (VWL would be my first choice) for a prime time I may want to consider an add on for the 11month window.

 

[Desperado]

Originally posted by PamOKW
This discussion is bordering on the ridiculous. OKW is a very popular resort. It is not some desolate second-class DVC. In fact, OKW is the original DVC and people who purchased there were told of the possibility of many more resorts to come and that those resorts would be allowed to exchange into OKW. I had some of the feelings Dee expresses in not wanting others to be using "my" resort, especially when it seemed as if all the other resorts would not be at WDW. It has turned out to not be a problem. People exchange in and out of DVC resorts all the time. That is the way that it is set up and to bear a grudge against people who use the program is silly. So what if you pay more dues? I own far more points than some other folks. Since I've made a bigger investment, been a member longer and pay more actual dollar dues I want first crack at the resorts and the "poor" folks can wait in line behind me. If I were to say that, it would be crazy. The program is what it is. There is a "home resort priority period" guaranteed at every resort. We were clearly told that when we purchased, even before there were any other DVC resorts, and everyone had the option not to purchase if that was not agreeable.

There is no guarantee of availability at OKW. I've had to wait list for rooms and/or not gotten exactly what I wanted. I was able to get rooms at BWV and BCV during Christmas Week. There are no absolutes about what is and isn't available. If someone knows that they will not be able to book more than 7 months in advance and/or are willing to take their chances on which resort they book, then they are free to purchase any resort they like. If you know you can plan in advance and have a favorite resort, then purchase there.

My guess is that people who are buying SSR are very excited by what they've seen. They are looking forward to staying at SSR, not looking for a "cheap" way to stay in the Epcot area.

The system is what it is. With a negative attitude I could be oppossed to anyone who uses non-OKW points to book a GV just because their home resort doesn't offer them. Or people who book OKW at Christmas to stretch their points. Or what about those folks who insist on coming to Vero and booking my Beach Cottage? I'm paying more dues for those points. That kind of thinking doesn't do anyone any good.

I do not think it is needed to call this discussion ridiculous and silly. Like it or not there is an inequity in demand between resorts. There is far more availbility at OKW than there is at other resorts. Apparently, given this lower demand, it is less desirable to stay at OKW than at other resorts. An increase in amenities and improved pools with slides may help compensate for this lower demand and bring OKW more in line with other DVC resorts. Even if OKW owners have been inthe program longer, why aren't more people choosing it at the 7 month window given it's larger room and lower point advantages. While no one is labelling it some desolate second-class DVC, the lower demand for OKW compared to the other DVC resorts is a fact. People are not choosing to stay there as often regardless of one story here or there. It's time to improve the older resort IMO, so people would be more williing to stay there compared to the other DVC resorts, at least make the pools more kid friendly. There are several posts above talking about how people make thier resort decisions based on thier children's pool preferences. That's fixable.

Personally I'm not as bothered by it as DeeP, but he has a point and this forum is an appropriate place to raise the discussion. No need to claim it's ridiculous and silly.

 

[Desperado]

Originally posted by tjkraz
You know, whether true or not, it's starting to sound like nothing more than sour grapes from a BCV owner who doesn't like to share his/her resort. I guess the 4 months of booking exclusivity just isn't enough. Heaven forbid those nasty OKW owners crawl out of their slum and take up space at BCV.

Well, I can tell you that I am one PROUD SSR owner. I'm also an SSR owner that just this morning booked his first stay as a DVC member. Hopefully they will give us the best studio that the Beach Club Villas has to offer!!!

Actually, it's a BWV owner who is raising the concern, not a BCV owner. "nasty OKW owners' can crawl out of their slum" (your words, not mine) at the 7 month window just like everyone else and make reservations at other resorts, your right, it's within the guidelines . I understand the increased demand for BCV, it's a beautiful resort with lots of amenities, it may be the nicest DVC resort so far. I'm glad there is good 7 month window availability, I'd like to try other resorts too, especially HH. I doubt I'll stay at OKW, I think the older resort should be improved, especially the pools, even if that increases teh dues a bit.

I hope you get a great BCV studio and have a wonderful vacation.

 

[dianeschlicht]

I do not think it is needed to call this discussion ridiculous and silly. Like it or not there is an inequity in demand between resorts. There is far more availbility at OKW than there is at other resorts. Apparently, given this lower demand, it is less desirable to stay at OKW than at other resorts.

Where are the statistics that support that statement? Is the availablility you speak of proven to be because folks don't want to stay at OKW or is it because there are twice as many units there? If you are going to make a bold statement like that, you need to support it with facts.

Is it less desireable to ALL, or just to you? I find it to be highly desireable. I think what Pam was trying to say is that statements that insight "riot" serve no purpose.

 

[Desperado]

Originally posted by dianeschlicht
Where are the statistics that support that statement? Is the availablility you speak of proven to be because folks don't want to stay at OKW or is it because there are twice as many units there? If you are going to make a bold statement like that, you need to support it with facts.

Is it less desireable to ALL, or just to you? I find it to be highly desireable. I think what Pam was trying to say is that statements that insight "riot" serve no purpose.

It's because it has been reported on numerous occassions that units are available at OKW when other resorts are full. Call MS and see for yourself. There is more reservation availability than at other DVC resorts, regardless of my preferences. It's great you find it highly desirable I'm glad many OKW owners do, but the demand for the OKW resort even with larger rooms and lower points is less than the other DVC resorts. More OKW owners are staying at other DVC resorts than owners from other DVC resorts are staying at OKW. I'm not suggesting "riot" I'm suggesting improving the older resort, especially the pools, to make OKW a more attractive option for members. I think it would benefit all of us and resolve some of the inequity in demand.

There are many wonderful reasons you have every reason to love your OKW resort. Lets add a couple more by making some improvements. That ain't riot material or silly or ridiculous. That's offering a realistic solution and making it better for all (except maybe some small increases in OKW dues).

 

[Dean]

Originally posted by Desperado
I do not think it is needed to call this discussion ridiculous and silly. Like it or not there is an inequity in demand between resorts. There is far more availbility at OKW than there is at other resorts. Apparently, given this lower demand, it is less desirable to stay at OKW than at other resorts. An increase in amenities and improved pools with slides may help compensate for this lower demand and bring OKW more in line with other DVC resorts. Even if OKW owners have been inthe program longer, why aren't more people choosing it at the 7 month window given it's larger room and lower point advantages. While no one is labelling it some desolate second-class DVC, the lower demand for OKW compared to the other DVC resorts is a fact. People are not choosing to stay there as often regardless of one story here or there. It's time to improve the older resort IMO, so people would be more williing to stay there compared to the other DVC resorts, at least make the pools more kid friendly. There are several posts above talking about how people make thier resort decisions based on thier children's pool preferences. That's fixable.

Personally I'm not as bothered by it as DeeP, but he has a point and this forum is an appropriate place to raise the discussion. No need to claim it's ridiculous and silly.

You are presuming the reasons that OKW is more available is due to the lower desireability. This may be partly true but there are other explanations and non of us have the facts here. In general, OKW is older and owners have owned longer and are more likely to tru other things both within and without DVC. In the past it's appeared that the new DVC resort, especially the ones at WDW, are harder to get into for a few years. It's just liike the new restaurant being crowded for the first 6 months. I believe that the smaller resorts will continue to be harder just due to sheer lack of room numbers.

When Matt Gibbs was a VP, he told me that this was DVC's expecation with BWV. Early on BWV was hard to get compared to OKW and DVC EXPECTED that level of demand for only a couple of years then things would settle down. I think we've seen that overall, BWV is not difficult to get at 7 months. Certain options at BWV are difficult though to include standard view, BW vuew and GV.

 

[JimC]

Dean, very good point. I also think that OKW's size (substantially larger inventory of units than the other DVC properties) makes it more likely that you can find space. A larger property, even with the same float as a smaller property, still by virtue of its size will have more units open at any given time.

The fact that OKW is a different resort option is the beauty of DVC. We like its more laid back atmosphere, condo building clusters, quieter main pool, etc. It has a community as opposed to resort feel, that we find very nice.

Each resort has its strong supporters who will stay only there, and others who, like us, have favorites but want to stay everywhere. We enjoy experiencing what other members like about their home resorts.

 

[Desperado]

Originally posted by JimC
Each resort has its strong supporters who will stay only there, and others who, like us, have favorites but want to stay everywhere. We enjoy experiencing what other members like about their home resorts.

The point DeeP is raising is that OKW has owners who are not strong supporters of the resort desiring only to stay there, theyu purchase there because of the lower dues without the intention of ever staying there. We've heard of at least one OKW owner rudely complaining about this tactic from off site resorts calling salespeople liars and cheaters for suggesting such tactics (ownership at an offsite resort for lower dues, without the intention of staying there very often). I think DeeP is saying this is going on with OKW purchases and making the same complaint (although much more politely).

You are presuming the reasons that OKW is more available is due to the lower desireability. This may be partly true

lets elliminate the partly true part by improving the OKW pools and making them more desirable for kids and improve the OKW resort. Several posts above indicate pools as a decision factor. OKW needs to improve thier pools (IMHO) especially since SAB pool hopping is not available. It won't affect me, we don't stay at OKW, the condo feel isn't something we're looking for. But I think it addresses this issue in a constructive way and benefits OKW owners, (even if a couple of folks don't want change).

 

[MiaSRN62]

Dean, very good point. I also think that OKW's size (substantially larger inventory of units than the other DVC properties) makes it more likely that you can find space. A larger property, even with the same float as a smaller property, still by virtue of its size will have more units open at any given time.

I couldn't agree more with Dean, tjkraz and JimC. And, as with Diane, I'd like stats to back up these accusations about OKW. Maybe you can most of the time secure a ressie at OKW----but some of you make it out like the resort is 50% vacant or something ? How does anyone know that there may only be a handful of villas available at the time you call---so yes, there is vacancy ? OKW has twice the amount of rooms and a 10-15% vacancy is perfectly understandable for a resort this size imo. Desperado suggested calling MS to verify vacancy. I think I may see if I can get information (if this is possible) on exactly what percentage is vacant at OKW because I'll bet it's not all that much for a very large resort. I was able to secure a number of ressies at BWV at the 60 day mark or less this summer and this was with the Fairytale package in full force resort-wide. MS told me they had all size units available at BWV when I called in June for an early Aug check-in date. So what is the difference with this and OKW having availability ? I bet BWV is only tough to get a certain times of the year (aka holidays and F&W). I have called on three occassions over the past 24 months to check on availability at BWV's and there has always been availability in the 60 day to 7 month period. I asked Deep if she ever had trouble securing a ressie at BWV and got no reply. I'll take that as a "no", so what is the problem here ? I feel BCV may be tougher to get, because, as mentioned in previous posts, this is a brand new resort and the only DVC resort that has access to SAB. I really feel blocking Member pool-hopping at SAB may be a main reason Members want to trade their points there. I'm sure the novelty of BCV will wear thin in a couple of years too.

More OKW owners are staying at other DVC resorts than owners from other DVC resorts are staying at OKW.

I'll repeat. Once again I feel this is because OKW owners have owned for a longer time period and are simply interested in some variety---which is well within the guidelines to do. Owners at BCV and VWL are very new and I'm sure they are still settling in to their new "homes". I'll bet given 3-5 more years, owners there will be venturing out to the newer resorts too.

it's a beautiful resort with lots of amenities, it may be the nicest DVC resort so far.

This is an opinion.....not shared by me. I actually find each DVC resort to be uniquely beautiful and I'm quite happy to stay in any one of them.

It's time to improve the older resort IMO, so people would be more williing to stay there compared to the other DVC resorts, at least make the pools more kid friendly.

I really don't see the need for any improvements, other than maybe adding a slide to the main pool. But the OKW pools are very nice and in good condition---on par with the "condition" of the other DVC resorts imo. Perhaps a slide would add a little pizzaz ? But I feel for an older resort, the grounds and villas are in wonderful condition. Honestly, last year when we stayed in a 2 bedroom at OKW, I wouldn't have been able to tell you that OKW was older than BWV because the condition of the resort and rooms was extremely comparable to what we had at BW this year (i.e. condition of appliances, furniture, decor etc).

 

[Desperado]

The flip side of this arguement is that some have been convinced to buy off site (VB and HH) with the idea of buying points cheaper and using those point sot ONLY stay at WDW. IMO, that's a big mistake if they don't want to use their home resort at least part of the time.

Doesn't the same logic apply for OKW ownership?

 

[MiaSRN62]

The flip side of this arguement is that some have been convinced to buy off site (VB and HH) with the idea of buying points cheaper and using those point sot ONLY stay at WDW. IMO, that's a big mistake if they don't want to use their home resort at least part of the time.

Doesn't the same logic apply for OKW ownership?

Meaning what ? No.....I didn't buy at OKW for this reason ? I don't feel it's the same as HH or Vero either because OKW is on WDW property. But even if I had, there is nothing illegal about it (DVC-wise). It just seems that certain posts in this thread, don't want any OKW owners venturing off their home property ? Is it ok for a VWL or BWV owner to stay at BCV ? Is it ok for a VWL or BCV to stay at BWV ? Is there just a problem with OKW owners trading out here ? I mean, this is the general feeling I'm getting ?

 

[MiaSRN62]

I asked Deep if she ever had trouble securing a ressie at BWV and got no reply.

I do want to correct something here. I see Deep did respond to this question to another poster on page 6 of this thread. I missed that earlier. I guess now I'm just wondering what times of the year she had to switch her dates ? Because I was able to secure (had I wanted to) a number of different unit types at BWV over the last 18 months when I called. One time was in June of this year. Another time was the second week of February this year. I was planning on going down with some friends and checked for availability. It was there, it's just we decided on somewhere else. I believe the third time I called to check was the last week of Sept '02 going into the first week of Oct. All three times when I called, I checked availability at several DVC resorts. In June of this year, I also could have gotten BCV but not for all of our dates (the weekend days were not available). I chose not to waitlist as it was already under the 60 day mark.

 

[dianeschlicht]

Originally posted by MiaSRN62
I do want to correct something here. I see Deep did respond to this question to another poster on page 6 of this thread. I missed that earlier. I guess now I'm just wondering what times of the year she had to switch her dates ? Because I was able to secure (had I wanted to) a number of different unit types at BWV over the last 18 months when I called. One time was in June of this year. Another time was the second week of February this year. I was planning on going down with some friends and checked for availability. It was there, it's just we decided on somewhere else. I believe the third time I called to check was the last week of Sept '02 going into the first week of Oct. All three times when I called, I checked availability at several DVC resorts. In June of this year, I also could have gotten BCV but not for all of our dates (the weekend days were not available). I chose not to waitlist as it was already under the 60 day mark.

Amazing! So you are saying the highly desireable BWV ALSO has availability??? I thought it was only OKW that you could get on short notice! Sorry, I just can't help but be dramatic here! Please read with tongue firmly planted in cheek!