Has Anyone ever Rented DVC points before?

[Mickeymac]

DH really wants to stay at the Beach Club in December (11/28-12/5) but the only way I think we could do that is to rent points from a DVC member and stay at the Beach Club Villas (right?.) I have no clue what this is all about - am I right in figuring out that it would take 106 points for that date?

How do I find out if someone is ethical?

How do I protect our vacation investment?

What happens if we can't go?

Where is the best place to rent?

How much do the points usually go for?

Have you ever rented before? How did it go?

What am I missing?

I think this would also give him a taste of what ownership in the DVC is like. He's been hinting at it for years, but I swear, he's a turtle... :hehe:

[djgiffordrn]

I would be interested in hearing how this is done too. Someday I might rent out some points. Maybe go on a different trip with the money....I will have 50 points left over this year...I don't need them for next year. So either we go on a short trip or I rent them out...sorry I don't have quite as many as you would need MM...although in Dec. I saw the Boardwalk at only 9 points a night for a Sunday through Thursday....if I don't rent them, I am using them, lol.

[OKWTink]

I don't know much about it and the only place I know that devotes any amount of board space to the topic is the Gairy Place where they have an entire board on renting points.

Last I knew points were renting for about $10 per point. Some will try to rent higher.

I only know of going through private owners, which puts the burden of determining honesty squarely on you.

What happens if you cannot make it is something you'd have to work out with the owner of the points you are renting. If you cancel within 7 days (I think) the points are lost. If you cancel within 30 days they are put into holding (need to be used or lost).

For owners there is travel type insurance, I don't know how that would work for a renter.

You'll have to really research the topic. I know there are some honest folks out there, but also know that there are some really shady characters.

Good luck. (Just booking a stay at a DVC won't work, huh)?

[djgiffordrn]

Hey MM, Here is a link to a discussion board tht is about renting the points...it does appear to be about $10 per night...


http://www.disboards.com/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=29

I hope this was okay to post here, if not and it gets removed...email me.

[Eeyore1974]

I've never rented, but the thought has crossed my mind. The 2004 Passporter has an advertisement in it for a company called DVCbyResale.com I don't know much about it, so I am just passing along the info as I don't have personal experience. It might be worth checking out. Those are all very important questions you bring up for people considering buying someone else's points for a season.

[dcfromva]

Mickeymac,

Renting points may not be the best option for you for that time period.
There are lots of advantages to renting points (cost savings is usually one of them), but you lose flexibility. Most owners consider the deal final when the reservation is made. Unfotunately, if you find a better deal elsewhere, you are pretty much locked into the points. (I should point out that each owner/renter have their own agreement and it is not controlled in any shape or form by Disney--so, you could reach your own agreement by negotiation).

If you have to cancel, generally the owner will work with you to reschedule the vacation. If you cancel more that 30 days out, there are more options. If you cancel from 30 days prior to 1 day prior, the points go into a holding account. Reservations using these points can only be made up to 60 days in advance. If you cancel on the day of arrival, all points are lost.

There is a trip Ins that can be purchased, however, while the points generally cost you $10.00 per point to rent, the Ins only reimburses for $5.00 per point (I "think"). IMHO, it would be far better to work your own trip ins. by booking another room for the day of arrival and then start the DVC the next day. (The cost of Trip Ins in some cases is more than the price of a discounted room). Then, if your trip falls through, you could reschedule your points within 60 days of the planned arrival until the end of the UY.

Another factor to consider in cancellations is Use Year. If the owner's points are December Use Year and your reservation is for Dec and you cancel more than 30 days out, the points are virtually intact--they can be banked or they could be used for reservations (for the home resort) up to 11 months in advance. (The only thing the owner has lost in such a situation is the opportunity cost--ie the points could have been rented by someone else and also the time invested in obtaining a reservation and working out your details). If the UY is Dec and you cancel within 30 days, then the points have less versatility--they can't be exchanged or banked and they can only be used for reservations within 60 days of arrival--the good part is there is almost a whole year to try to find reservations within the 60 day booking window.

On the other hand, if your owner has a Feb UY and you make your reservation in Dec and you have to cancel--depending on when you cancel the points may not be able to be banked and they expire Jan 31st! :eek:

The reason I say Dec might not be the best month to rent points is because Dec is typically a very popular month with DVC owners and a lot of times the rooms are booked at the 11 month window--so, in order to get exactly what you are looking for, you have to commit early. Then, if an AP holder rate comes out (which is not unheard of for Dec), you are locked into the rental deal. I have seen cases where an AP rate would beat out the rental price--especially when weekends are involved.

Are you looking for a studio for that time frame? How do you feel about moving once you arrive?

-DC :ears:

[Scoootch]

Originally posted by djgiffordrn
Hey MM, Here is a link to a discussion board tht is about renting the points...it does appear to be about $10 per night...


http://www.disboards.com/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=29

I hope this was okay to post here, if not and it gets removed...email me.

Just thought I'd give you an overview of how renting points works ---

Typically the DVC member will rent their points out for $10 per point (not per night). A stay in a studio for the time of year you are looking for would be 12 pts per night Sun. - Thurs. and 23 pts per night for Fri. & Sat. night. (choice season is Nov.27-30) . So for a studio for Nov.28 -30 it would cost you 36pts. (Dec. 1-14 falls in Adventure season) so for Dec. 1-5, it would now be 12pts per night Sun. - Thurs. and 22pts per night Sat. & Sun. so it will cost you 24pts for Wed. and Thurs. and then 44pts for Fri. & Sat.
So your total for the week would be 104 points .

At $10 per point your stay would cost $1,040.00. If you booked Directly through Disney and paid say $295.00 per night for the studio (guessing what they'd charge) it would cost you $2,065.00 plus tax. so it would cost you only half to rent the same room through a DVC member.

If you follow the link that djgiffordrn gave you it will bring you to the DVC rent/trade board. You can ask questions and find out who has points for rent there. Ask for references from the people renting, ask for experiences from people who have rented, etc. Personnally I've never rented but have heard good things from many others who have. It does involve alot of trust on both ends from the 2 parties involved but it can save you a tremendous amount of money to rent rather than go through Disney directly.

If you're interested in staying at BCV's for that time of year you'll want to look into booking WAY IN ADVANCE This is an extremely popular time of year for DVC members to be booked as the points are in their lowest season and Christmas decorations are up and holiday events happening. If renting points makes you too nervous or you can't get your stay booked because the villa's are full you may want to either book just a night or 2 directly through disney at the villa's (they may be booked up for members on points and Disney directly may have a few rooms availible as they retain like 4% of the rooms for non-member bookings) and check them out that way and continue the rest of your stay at the BC resort (the non-villas portion). Or you may want to stay at another DVC resort or choose a different date for your trip.

Anyway, hope this was of some help. If I can answer any other questions, feel free to PM me:wink: :wave:

[Mickeymac]

I know a little bit more this morning, of our travel plans.

(Just booking a stay at a DVC won't work, huh)?

Well, I priced out the cost of staying at the Beach Club itself, and it's 41917. for the week, standard view. I wish I knew what last year's AP prices were for the same time frame - i can't seem to find them. :rolleyes: edit: just found them - Beach Club was $209. night for water view, so for seven nights, that's $1624 is. Saves about three hundred, if they are released, more if I could book a standard view.

DC, Yes, we would probably get a studio. For some reason, it look small to me?? Anyone know how it compares to an AKL room? We could not afford to get a one bedroom studio, but like the thought. :hehe: The DIS calculator from 11/28 to 12/5 says we'd need 106 points, and at $10 a point, that's $1,060. I don't see how I could beat that? (it's 212 points for the one bedroom)

Flexibility is less necessary at this time, I'm hopeful to say. We are now definately going that week, unless airfare goes through the roof (it's $200 per person through Delta right now, wish I knew when Southwest was posting rates for Nov/Dec, as we need to include Thanksgiving week - ugh.) Once the airfare is booked, we would NOT cancel, so don't need trip insurance any more. The only flexibility we would need is to add on time at the beginning if my MIL decides they will not be around for Thanksgiving, and we'd need to book from Thanksgiving to Sunday. If that happens, we'd resort hop, I think, from the All Stars, since the kids miss it. (what a contrast, hey?)

Eeyore, that's the website we've been looking at for a long time. I've wanted to get an OKW resale for a while (it's right next to the golf course) but DH is just drrraaaggggiiinnnggg his feet. We received an offer for a 'free vacation' should we purchase a DVC from Disney a while ago, but I think that offer expired. We could use the deduction too - we dont' even itemize past the standard deduction any more.:eek:

How do the BCV rooms compare to the BC rooms?

DJ, I was on the Gairy Place (hehehee) so long last night I felt my brain cells popping as I read. Your posts helped though. :D :D

know there are some honest folks out there, but also know that there are some really shady characters.

'Tink - this makes me the most nervous - I would hate to convince my husband to spend his hard earned dollars this way, then get to check-in and find out it wasn't legit. Is there a confirmation number or something to follow up on?. I think what I would do is buy from someone who apparently has a past rental history, if at all possible. DJ, too bad you didn't have enough points, but I think your idea of making another trip is a noble sacrifice.
:eek:

[Mickeymac]

Scoootch, thanks for the post! I wonder why the DIS calculator came out two points more? Not that I mind, mind you! LOL!

Typically the DVC member will rent their points out for $10 per point (not per night

LOL - that's funny! Wouldn't that be great if it were per night! Hehehehee! (I can understand where the confusion would come in though!)

I will probably ask questions publically though, since there's so little DVC rental information on this site, and so many valuable DVC members that I trust, and many more members like Eeyore that are interested also. Kind of like the 'stupid question' in the middle of class. LOL!

[Scoootch]

As far as how the studio at BCV's compares to the rooms at AKL or the regular BC rooms, a studio at BCV's (and all other DVC resorts except for OKW which will have 2 queen beds) will have a queen size bed and a pull-out sofa bed. It will also have a kitchenette with a mini-fridge, a microwave and coffee pot. As well as a bathroom and a balcony. The rooms at the other resorts will not have the kitchenette and will have usually 2 queen or double beds and a daybed (at the deluxes) -- AKL you can also get a queen/double bed and a set of bunkbeds.

HTH's

[Scoootch]

Originally posted by Mickeymac
Scoootch, thanks for the post! I wonder why the DIS calculator came out two points more? Not that I mind, mind you! LOL!
____________________________________
The calculator probably came out to the extra points because the dates you mentioned fell in 2 different point seasons -- choice and adventure. They probably just automatically give you the higher of the 2 but what I gave you was acurate, I did it with my point chart from my member book since it was sitting right next to me on the computer desk :wink:

_______________________________________________
LOL - that's funny! Wouldn't that be great if it were per night! Hehehehee! (I can understand where the confusion would come in though!)

I will probably ask questions publically though, since there's so little DVC rental information on this site, and so many valuable DVC members that I trust, and many more members like Eeyore that are interested also. Kind of like the 'stupid question' in the middle of class. LOL!

___________________________________

BTW, there are no stupid questions, isn't that why we all come on these boards?!

Feel free to ask me anything -- even if you think it's silly:nutty:

[Mickeymac]

HTH's

It does help! I'm wondering about the size of the room in relation to adding all our 'baggage' though. At AKL, I could tuck DH's hard sided golf case into the closet and be done with them (but he parked the actual golf bag *outside* the closet. :eek: He just likes the decor, I guess)

In my mind, I felt the rooms at AKL were tight (only when my husband was around) I can't imagine adding refrigerator, microwave, sink, et al to that chaos (in my mind, they go where the double sinks are at AKL??) Plus, having to sleep on a sofabed...

ACK! What am I SAYING! I'd be at DISNEYWORLD!!

[djgiffordrn]

MM did you try Panam yet...flypanam.com

We love flying out of Pease.

[Mickeymac]

DJ, I did and it's $200 more than Delta out of Manchester with layovers in Atlanta. Rental cars are cheaper though, and you don't have to pay for parking, right?? I'm just really nervous about the service after reading all the negative feedback over at the GP. I want to post another thread over there asking for recent feedback since there are soooo many New Englanders - the last I really saw was from March 2003, and very negative on all accounts. (we know a mechanic over there, and the quality seems to have improved) I just hope Holly doesn't respond. :eek:

[djgiffordrn]

MM, we flew out of there last July totally AWESOME! My uncle flies out of there at least 3 times a year, he has a home in Deltona. Their flight was delayed by 30 minutes and he won 2 free roundtrip tickets, they did a lottery thing.

The prices are going up I did notice. Free parking and sooooo easy to check in and board. We are using them in April. Sanford Airport wasn't bad either.

Southwest never releases until 5 or 6 months out. I hate that! I am a planner and like to do everything sooner than that.

[dcfromva]

Mickeymac,
If you are looking for a way to get your DH into DVC, I know a really sneaky way... How about a really small resale contract of 50-75 points? Granted, you would have to get a pretty good deal to start off with because of the overhead (I believe it costs around $400.00 for closing no matter how many points you purchase, so the more points you buy, the more "cost effective" it is :lol: )
Anyway, the nice thing about this is if you are an owner, you can get the member discounts, et'c. and if you wanted to rent points from someone, you could arrange for them to transfer their points directly into your account--it would take a lot of the worry and guess work out of the process.
I have seen folks do some pretty amazing things with only 50 points... and between banking and borrowing you could have up to 150 points...
-DC :ears:

[djgiffordrn]

MM, I just looked at PanAm's site, they have a non stop on the way down and the way back for 2 people only 490 ...it is a little more than Delta....but if I remember correctly you aren't far from there. Sometimes the convenience is worth a few extra $.

[Mickeymac]

you two are killing me...

DC - I just read DH your idea and he coughed and chuckled. :D As a DVC member, you get discounts on Annual Passes, don't you? Do you know how much they are? And there is the Disney store discount again... :hehe:

DJ, do you know if there is free parking at Pease? The only other drawback is that National is closed when we fly in - they are supposed to be extending their hours, but they won't know for two months for how long. I'd have to rent from Avis.

[djgiffordrn]

Yes parking is free at Pease! Also, the pushy cart things are yours to put your luggage on free of charge! LOL, hey every few bucks helps, lol.

[dcfromva]

As a DVC member, you get discounts on Annual Passes, don't you?

Mickeymac,
Unfortunately no discount on the APes, but you do get a discount on the LOS tickets.


-DC :ears:

[Johnie]

If you are interested in staying off-site at all, I can get you a good deal on a condo through RCI.

[Mickeymac]

No AP discounts! Ack! That didn't sit well with hubby! gotta regroup!! :eek:

DJ, yes, every little bit helps! :D

[OKWTink]

Ok, I just read through the rest of the posts really fast, so if I am being redundant here, forgive me. :)

Here is my bias showing. If you are going to go with a studio, go with OKW. The pull outs are NOT comfortable, and for your two children really wouldn't be that great at all. (Toddlers maybe).

OKW has the two queen beds and is the largest square footage of all the DVCs. The kitchenette is separate and doesn't take up the "bedroom space" if that makes any sense.

DC thanks so much for your excellent explanations of canceling. I have grown so lazy in my knowledge of the DVC! :blush:

I do like the 50 point contract idea. Bottom line is you can always sell it, and most likely at an appreciated value. It is the only way you will get OKW also. (Resale). Did I mention that OKW has the cheapest maintenance dues too?

The only drawback to staying at OKW will be when you stay at another DVC (especially studio size) they are noticeably smaller.

The studios with a bed and a pullout are great for a couple, but thats about it. The one bedroom won't even deliver you from that problem by the way, they use a pullout in the living room as the second sleeping accomodation. So, for you the OKW studio or a jump up to the two bedroom would be the best options.

Now, of course, this is all my huge bias, but when I'm at DVC I want comfort and touches of luxury. I get that at OKW.

Hope this helps and doesn't confuse.

[JuniorMickey]

Okay MM, tell DH that if he wants a discounted AP he needs to move to Florida :)

[Mickeymac]

LOL JM, I've been after him for so many years... if his own Mom and Grandfather can't get im down there, I don't think I will. I know we will have to move some day, he just wants to delay it as long as possible.

Here is my bias showing. If you are going to go with a studio, go with OKW. The pull outs are NOT comfortable, and for your two children really wouldn't be that great at all. (Toddlers maybe).

Ack, oh to admit this. DD and I would be staying on the pull-out. DH is not only a bed hog, but also a HUGE snorer and I don't sleep squeezed into a tiny queen bed (you should see the size of our bed :eek:) He also really REALLY wants to stay at the Beach Club (dang ever introducing him to Stormalong and Beaches and Cream!) and I want him to invest in DVC, so it's kind of like a compromise. We are going to watch the Disneyworld DVD tonight and try to get a better idea, so I'm hoping to spring the OKW idea on him. He was a bit against it at lunch, but I think he needs to see the spaces.

OKW has the two queen beds and is the largest square footage of all the DVCs. The kitchenette is separate and doesn't take up the "bedroom space" if that makes any sense.
Makes total sense. That's the kind of input I was looking for.

I do like the 50 point contract idea. Bottom line is you can always sell it, and most likely at an appreciated value. It is the only way you will get OKW also. (Resale). Did I mention that OKW has the cheapest maintenance dues too?
hehehee - several times over, along with the larger room size, quiet location, golf courses, homey feel - you've had me sold long ago. :D Yes, if we do DVC, I want an OKW contract. What if I were to somehow buy a 50 pt contract now, and a larger contract later at a different resort - what becomes my home resort? Also, if I buy a contract in my name, then DH does later in his name, what happens there?

The studios with a bed and a pullout are great for a couple, but thats about it. The one bedroom won't even deliver you from that problem by the way, they use a pullout in the living room as the second sleeping accomodation. So, for you the OKW studio or a jump up to the two bedroom would be the best options.
Ack, I was so afraid of that. DC has gently leaned me this way too, but with everything going on, we simply can't afford that right now. I think I'm talking myself back down to BC at AP rates... :(

[OKWTink]

I just don't want you to put yourself in a situation that will end up being less than what you need/expect.

You on the pullout is seriously not good. I took a relative with me several times and she's used the pullouts from VB to WDW and they are all bad! Even the ones in the one bedrooms at OKW.

I'm not saying you couldn't do it, and I understand the value of compromise, and it's best to do what you need to in order to get to WDW, but do go into a studio/pullout with your eyes wide open.

Having said all that, the BC is to die for as you know. But for a DVC, give me my roomy luxurious OKW any time! :D

Don't know about the separate name thing (purchase) other than it would be two contracts with two use years to juggle and you'd have to coordinate points use between the two. I'm sure our DC will come along and make it all sound marvelously do-able though! She's a wizard when it comes to that. Me? I just wanna' stay at Disney. :D :D :lol:

[Alexander]

I'm jumping in a bit late here, but it's funny because you had mentioned how you'd love to stay at BC, but didn't think you could swing it. I was thinking you could rent points.

We do it all of the time, and don't stay any other way! I have rented from three different people and had wonderful luck each time. I even exchange Christmas cards with one of the owners.

We are staying at OKW for Easter. We arrive on Saturday which requires a greater number of points. In fact, more than paying cash (esp. with the discounts that were out). We are paying cash for our studio on Saturday and rented points for the remainder of the week.

$10 is the average but I generally rent for $9 or $9.50. You do have to understand the use-year and 11 vs. 7 month windows pretty clearly though before you rent. I only rent from people who can provide me with references. I generally pay through paypal.

I love it, and would highly recommend it. We never change our dates though, so we don't have to worry about 30 day windows or anything for changes.

[djgiffordrn]

MM, our last trip down there was perfect...they were having a DVC member day at the BW and a bunch of them were at the pool, sooooo we started talking and my dh got hooked, lol!!!

We only got 160 points, but I don't want the full kitchen and we book 2 studios and the kids stay in one (the toddler stays with us though) We are taking my parents with us in April...so they are paying our airfare. woohoo. I looked at the price to book through Disney and it was a bit over $1800 for the time we are going to be there, so for $1,000 (our airfare) my mom stays at the BW, lol. Although she loves the Poly!

Anyway...good luck...if you want to have a secret meet up, lol...my dh can talk to yours...my dh is the one who ALWAYS has to think things over before making purchases...I on the other hand, don't, lol. I know what I want and when I see it I get it, :lol:

[Alexander]

Adding to my early post:

I didn't have a problem sleeping on the pull-out. Honestly, it wasn't that bad! Again, I sleep on the pull-out in our camper sometimes and that has the kidney-bar that is brutal! It really wasn't bad though! Besides you are whooped after a long day at Disney!

Also on the reservation thing: I have the original copy of the registration that is sent to the DVC member. They send it on to me. The reservation is in my name, but the owner retains control over the reservation. You can call member services as many times as you like to confirm you reservation and be sure a "shady" person didn't cancel on you. I might add that you have the person's name, and address on the reservation and usually get a phone number from them prior to making a deal, so it's not like you can't "track-them-down.":D

I would hate to see you not do this and then kick yourself! It is an amazing deal on fabulous accomodations! K--Nuf Said!

[Mickeymac]

No no! Not enough said! I love the input!!

Tink knows my health issues though, so I'm kinda taking her words about the sofa bed to heart. As much as I want to stay at Disney, one of the reasons we are taking the trip is because I'm going through a really bad patch and DH is using the trip as a 'carrot at the end of the stick' so to speak. I'm not going to stop considering until talking to DH tonight, a bit further. We've got so many issues running at once it's ridiculous.

...I'm sure our DC will come along and make it all sound marvelously do-able though! She's a wizard when it comes to that. Me? I just wanna' stay at Di

Can I use that for a sig file! LOLOL!

[draje01]

Hi Mickeymac!

Just wanted to give you some more input. (And just know that I haven't read all the input from others so bear with me if I'm redundant)

As a DVC member myself, I love to rent points, I did it twice this year and basically paid a years worth of note payments on my membership and a years dues. Also, with people we have referred, we will also be getting a bonus in either Disney dollars and/or credit on our dues. Both times of me renting out our points was a great experience for me.

Just thought you'd like to know.

Jen
:ears: :bounce: :ears: :bounce: :ears: :bounce: :ears: :bounce: :ears:

[Whitequeen]

I was reading all this thread before I logged off last night!! Then I spent all night running it through my head!!!:yawn:

I soooo want to own points!!!!!!:bounce:

Keep talking about it everyone!!!:D

[djgiffordrn]

All I can say is buy buy buy. WE only got 160 points but looking at our planning and stuff it seems like it will work for us. It is cheaper to get 2 studios than 1 2bedroom. I don't want a kitchen on vacation anyway. And if there was a problem and I needed to use a washing machine...there are some to be used by the DVC members anyway. The studio has a coffee maker to give me a kcik start, and a little sink and small refrigerator...I think even a microwave too. Enough for me.

I am sooooo excited to go in April! Last year when my dh was convinced by the DVC members at the pool, I nearly floated up onto a cloud, :eek:

My kids think it is cool to tell their friends that we actually own a piece of the Mouse (well kinda)

[dcfromva]

hehehee - several times over, along with the larger room size, quiet location, golf courses, homey feel - you've had me sold long ago. Yes, if we do DVC, I want an OKW contract. What if I were to somehow buy a 50 pt contract now, and a larger contract later at a different resort - what becomes my home resort? Also, if I buy a contract in my name, then DH does later in his name, what happens there?

Mickeymac,
We have 3 different home resorts. We put both names on on all 3 contracts, so DH and I own them equally (:lol: )--I believe there is another option where you can have one person be the legal owner on the deed and then list another person as the associate member so that they can make reservations and what have you. (Just let your guide or mortgage broker know how you want the deed to read and they should be able to fix you up. I believe associates can be added after the transaction has closed, but if you later want to add someone onto the deed, it requires reclosing and it costs money. )

Let's say you purchased a 50 point resale at OKW with a Dec UY and then purchased a 100 point resale at BCV with a June UY. You would have the 11 month booking advantage for 50 points at OKW and 100 points at BCV.

A lot of folks in this situation alternate stays at home resorts. Using banking and borrowing--you could have up to 150points at OKW and 300 points at BCV per visit using this technique.

If you were planning a mega-stay somewhere, could you combine them? Yes, but you could only book the number of points for your home resort at 11 months and follow up with the other points at 7 months.
In fact, another technique some folks use is book sun-thurs night stays at the 11 month window and follow up with the more expensive weekends with the other home resort points at the 7 month booking window. (Weekends are usually the last to be booked.)

If you add on through Disney (at any of the other resorts), they make you retain the same UY unless you buy more than 150 points and then you must specifically request a different UY (and get a waiver :) ). If you were to buy a resale, there are no restrictions, of course.

Now that we have covered "how" to get different UY/different resorts, a lot of people wonder if it is a good idea? Does it get confusing? Well, I am still a relatively new member, so I don't have a long track record. I don't know if in the future it will be too confusing. (There is a downloadable DVC points manager freeware program to help folks in this situation, BTW :) )
But, I have been really delighted to call up and reserve a standard view at the Boardwalk Villas for Halloween Night--something for which I would most probably would have had to go on a waiting list if I didn't have the BWV contract (and last year before I had my BWV points I wait listed for a std view room at BWV, it did not come through). I was also able to book SSR for the Member Homecoming. The rooms were all booked for that time frame when they opened SSR up to everyone else. (Last year, I was able to book BCV for NYE. ) So, I really like having the flexibilty of booking at the 11months window at a variety of resorts.
I also like have different UY's to cover different trips at various times of the year.
-DC :ears:

[dcfromva]

was reading all this thread before I logged off last night!! Then I spent all night running it through my head!!!

Whitequeen,
The exchange rate is very favorable right now--and if you had an inkling of buying SSR (the newest DVC), the price per point is scheduled to go up on April 4th--it would be a shame to wait to buy until after the price goes up. :)

One thing that people don't realize is the once you call DVC up and say you want to buy points, Disney writes up the contract and asks for you to return it within a few days. But, they really don't get after you if you take longer... I have had paperwork in my hands for several weeks before I sent it back (I know they don't particularly "like" you to do that)...but, it does lock in the price and gives you a little extra time to think about it.

Then, after you sign, you have another two weeks (or is it 15 days?) to get out of the contract.

-DC :ears:

[dcfromva]

We are going to watch the Disneyworld DVD tonight and try to get a better idea, so I'm hoping to spring the OKW idea on him. He was a bit against it at lunch, but I think he needs to see the spaces.

Mickeymac,
I am getting so long winded here... I do love the convenience of BCV, but OKW does have more space. My DH was stunned when I told him OKW cost fewer points than BCV--because the units are bigger (and he "really" liked parking his car out in front of his home away from home). I do like the fact that the studios have 2 Queen beds in them.

-DC :ears:

[Mickeymac]

Well, we spent sooo much time watching the video that even the kids started complaining. :rolleyes: I'm convinced now that we cannot stay in a studio unless it was OKW. If I got sick and needed rest, that leaves a fold out couch for the rest of the family and he just didn't go for that. :lol:

I did have a good laugh though - he's been asking for days about a resort that's near the golf courses and right across from Downtown Disney, so I tell him it's the new Saratoga Springs or perhaps he's remembering OKW. Nope, nope, that's not the name of it, I must be wrong. He sees Boardwalk Villas on the video and says "THAT's IT!!" and I pointed it out to him on the Transportation Map and just looked at him. I died laughing.

He *thought* he wanted to stay there, then changed his mind back to the Beach Club. Then when I asked him to just make up his mind he said "you know, I'm going to feel guilty if we stay anywhere BUT Animal Kingdom Lodge - they've been so nice to us."

I could have shot him.

I'm pricing out the DVC one bedroom studios - OKW, BCV, WLV, and the AKL, WL, and BC resorts. I'm hoping he just picks something so I can book it at this point. He's driving me nuts. he doesn't get the DVC system, so I'm just doing the homework and telling him the bottom dollar pricing. It's tough to do that with AP pricing, since it doesn't come out so much later in the year, but he trusts that Cinderella would get us a discount if any where available, so he's mentally attributing that to the DVC properties. I think he's got too much information at this point and is confused.

I just want airfare. I'll sleep anywhere. I'm getting bummed out by the process. :(

[djgiffordrn]

MM, it doesn't take that long to get the worth paid back...Like I said, we only have 160 points...the trip in April would have cost us over $3600 for the two rooms alone! We still have 50 points leftover! We may go in DEcember, depending on where my son plays hockey...soooo figure in another $3000

It almost paid to the 1/2 point! This is what sold my dh...we have 42 years...even at one trip a year...even if it cost only $3,000 a year for the room...that comes to be ALOT more than we paid for the DVC!

[Mickeymac]

He's used to the whole economy mindedness of the thing. He knows when I take the kids, I'll spend $500 to $600 at the All Stars and spend 10 days there. It's a huge leap to go to spending $3000 on room, no matter how enticing the point system is. I did the quick math and told him for a $15,000 investment, at todays AP rates off season, that makes it only 25 visits. He pointed out I forgot to add the maintenance fees, which equals the trip costs to the All Stars each year.

I hate being married to an accountant sometimes.

[djgiffordrn]

I see your point too...but you can stay at a DELUX rather than the economy at WDW! LOL...walking distance to EPCOT and MGM...I just love the location!

The ESPN club is soooo cool...we are sports people and that place was fun last summer.

Good Luck, it sounds like an uphil battle but maybe if you take a running head start :wink:

[dcfromva]

Mickeymac,
Your DH is right--DVC can not currently compete against All Stars price wise.
I think the guide lines for DVC to be cost effective is going at least every other year, staying at a deluxe (or maybe a moderate) and staying on property.
I know it is comparing apples and orange, but if you love the All Stars--then there is no compelling reason to change.

The only other unknown is the cost of inflation and that is hard to factor (although your DH is an accountant--maybe he knows a magical formula for that :) ). I doubt the All Stars will remain at it's current price level for 38 more years. DVC maint. fees will also go up. What you need is a crystal ball to see if/when it would ever be cheaper to stay at DVC than the All Stars.

Or, get that small contract (then you could do a "little" DVC once in a while and keep going to All Stars, too and average your costs out. )

-DC :ears:

[Mickeymac]

...funny thing is, he uses the All Stars argument, yet his favorite resort is AKL and is dying to stay at the Beach Club. I think he needs to recognize that his beer budget won't fund his champagne tastes, but if he would only comprimize, we could handle a great wine spritzer once in a while.

I like your idea of a small contract and budgeting and alternating. I'll ahve to see what he thinks about that.

I wish i could get a large client, and then just get my own small contract and he wouldnt' be able to say a word... :lol:

[dcfromva]

I wish i could get a large client, and then just get my own small contract and he wouldnt' be able to say a word...

Mickeymac,
You have a Birthday "right around the corner" (July)-wouldn't that be an ideal Birthday present and you being the thoughtful wife that you are giving him plenty of lead time and allowing him to lock in before the price goes up. :lol: :lol: :lol: (See, I'm, trying to work this for you :) ).

-DC :ears:

[Mickeymac]

LOL DC.... I think my best investment would be to fly you up here and YOU talk to him. :D :D :D you think *exactly* like he does, it's scary. You could answer all his questions I keep flubbing up on, and he'd be sold in a heartbeat. :lol:

[draje01]

You also have to think about the savings in money spent on eating out also. Before each of our trips, we normally will cook something that freezes well ( for example: last time we cooked a chilli and also a seafood gumbo. Yes, we are from Louisiana!) We put it into an ice chest drove to WDW and put it in the freezer in our DVC "home". We also brought along a crock pot or "slow cooker" and dumped the chilli in the a.m. before we departed for the parks. By the time we came back in the evening, the chilli was ready to eat, piping hot!!!

We also make a Wal Mart or grocery stop when we get into orlando and get frozen breakfast foods, frozen pizzas, bread and sandwich fixings also. THAT SAVES A LOT OF MONEY AND TIME!!! When you figure for a typical sit down meal your waiting at least 10 to 30 minutes for a table and the travel time to get there, it makes sense.

We usually get a 1 BR for our family of 4 and our bedroom is so spacious and the bathroom is great w/ the HUGE jacuzzi tub to relax those sore legs and feet after a long day at the parks!!!

So tell your accountant husband to think of food savings as well as the opportunity to sell or rent your points to others as a way of making some of that money back!

Just couldn't resist putting my thoughts on the matter here!!!

:ears: :bounce: :ears: :bounce: :ears: :bounce: :ears: :bounce: :ears: :bounce: :ears: :bounce: :ears: :bounce: :ears:

[Mickeymac]

they have whirpools??!!! :eek:

You are very right to think of the food costs - I'd not thought of that at all. We've a tad bit of a flight crisis going on right now, so I think we are going to focus on that until we get airfare settled, then revisit the hotel/DVC discussion. It would be great to plan our own meals.

[draje01]

YES, THEY HAVE A WHIRLPOOL!!!

We normall get a 1 BR when we go which could be anywhere from 98 pts to 132 pts for a 5 night stay for the week of Thanksgiving. Anywho, the 1,2 or 3 bedroom homes have a HUGE jacuzzi tub in the master bedroom and a stand alone shower. The tub is big enough to fit 2 people very comfortably (if you and your hubby would want to relax together).

I think it's one of the best things about the rooms. Plus, not having to do laundry when you get home is nice, I think. I just do a load a day and it saves on overpacking those suitcases if you wash and wear the same things a couple of times.

I know I sound like a fanatic, BUT I AM!!!! I just absolutely love DVC and don't regret a single day since we joined. My only regret, if I had one, would be that we should have joined earlier.

Okay, that pumped me up for the day. I can work so much better now!!

:ears: :bounce: :ears: :bounce: :ears: :bounce: :ears: :bounce: :ears: :bounce: :ears: :bounce: :ears: