Can I Sell Old Key West Points?

If you own Old Key West points and you're considering selling, you're not alone. Many DVC members reach a point where they want to explore different resorts, adjust their use year, or simply move in a new direction with their vacation ownership.

Why Consider Selling Your Old Key West Points?

Selling your Old Key West points can open up several opportunities. Maybe you've fallen in love with a different DVC resort and want to switch your home resort priority. Perhaps your family's vacation needs have changed, and you'd prefer a different use year or point total. Or you might want to consolidate multiple contracts into one larger contract at another resort.

Old Key West holds a special place in DVC history as the first resort in the program, and it maintains strong resale value because of its extended contract dates (most expire in 2057, compared to 2042 for many other resorts). This longer contract life often makes Old Key West points attractive to buyers who want to maximize their years of ownership.

The process of selling is straightforward when you work with an experienced resale broker. We've helped hundreds of families through this process, and we can guide you through everything from pricing your contract to handling the closing details. Check out our cost to sell DVC page to understand the fees involved, or visit our how long does it take to sell page for realistic timelines.

What Makes Old Key West Special

Before you decide to sell, it's worth appreciating what makes Old Key West unique in the DVC family. This resort captures the laid-back charm of Key West with its tropical landscaping, waterfront views, and relaxed atmosphere. The villas are spacious, and the resort feels more spread out and peaceful compared to some of the newer DVC properties.

If you haven't fully explored what Disney's Old Key West Resort has to offer, you might want to take one more trip before listing your points. Here are some experiences that make this resort stand out:

• Complimentary Bike Rentals

  The resort offers complimentary bikes that let you explore the winding paths and waterfront areas at your own pace. It's a peaceful way to see the property and enjoy the Florida weather.

• Fishing from the Docks

  You can fish right from the resort's docks along the Sassagoula River. It's a relaxing activity that connects you with the waterfront setting that defines Old Key West.

• Tennis and Volleyball Courts

  The resort maintains well-kept courts for both tennis and sand volleyball, surrounded by the property's lush landscaping. It's a great way to stay active during your stay.

• Classic Lawn Games

  Old Key West offers shuffleboard and bocce ball courts, perfect for casual competition with family or other guests. These games fit the resort's relaxed, old Florida atmosphere.

• Family-Friendly Playgrounds

  The resort has several playground areas where kids can play while parents relax nearby. The playgrounds are well-maintained and offer a safe space for children to burn off energy.

• Outdoor Movie Nights

  Like many Disney resorts, Old Key West hosts outdoor movie screenings under the stars. You can bring blankets and snacks for a classic Disney movie night experience.

Understanding Old Key West's Resale Market

Old Key West points tend to perform well in the resale market for several reasons. The extended contract dates appeal to buyers who want the longest possible ownership period. The resort's classic status as the first DVC property gives it a certain prestige among Disney vacation enthusiasts. And the point charts at Old Key West are generally favorable, especially for larger villas during peak seasons.

Current resale prices for Old Key West typically range from about $110 to $140 per point, depending on the use year, contract size, and current point status. Larger contracts (200+ points) often command higher per-point prices because they're more valuable to buyers planning extended stays or multiple trips per year.

The use year can also affect resale value. February and December use years are often the most desirable because they align well with school schedules and holiday travel. But every use year has its advantages, and we've successfully sold contracts with all twelve use year options.

If you're curious about your contract's current market value, you can use our DVC resale value calculator to get an estimate based on recent sales data. Keep in mind that the final selling price depends on factors like market conditions, contract details, and timing.

The Selling Process Step by Step

When you decide to sell your Old Key West points, the process follows a predictable timeline. First, you'll work with your broker to determine a competitive listing price based on recent comparable sales. This involves looking at similar contracts that have sold recently, considering factors like use year, contract size, and loaded versus stripped points.

Once your contract is listed, it typically takes 30 to 90 days to find a buyer, though this can vary based on market conditions and your specific contract details. When you receive an offer, you'll have the opportunity to negotiate terms before accepting.

After you accept an offer, the buyer usually has 10 days to review the estoppel certificate, which shows the current status of your contract including point balances, dues, and any restrictions. If the buyer approves the estoppel, the contract moves forward to closing.

The entire process from listing to closing typically takes 60 to 120 days. Disney also exercises their Right of First Refusal (ROFR) on about 10-15% of Old Key West contracts, which can add 30-45 days to the timeline if it happens to your sale.

Costs and Fees When Selling

Understanding the costs involved in selling helps you plan appropriately. At DVC Sales, we charge a 6.9% commission, which is lower than the industry average of 9.5%. You'll also pay a $150 estoppel fee to get the required documentation from Disney, and there may be small closing costs depending on your contract details.

Most sellers net between 85% and 90% of their sale price after all fees and costs. For example, if you sell your contract for $120,000, you'd typically receive between $102,000 and $108,000 after expenses.

Some sellers wonder whether to sell with loaded points (unused points from the previous year) or stripped points (no banked points). Loaded contracts generally sell for more money, but you also give up the ability to use those banked points. The choice depends on your personal situation and travel plans.

Tax Implications of Selling DVC Points

When you sell your DVC contract, you may owe capital gains tax if you sell for more than your original purchase price plus any documented improvements or fees. Most DVC members who purchased resale contracts years ago will show a gain, while those who purchased directly from Disney at higher retail prices may show a loss.

The tax treatment depends on how long you owned the contract and your total gain or loss. Contracts owned for more than one year qualify for long-term capital gains rates, which are generally lower than ordinary income tax rates.

I'd suggest you consult with a tax professional about your specific situation, especially if you're selling a large contract or multiple contracts in the same tax year. They can help you understand the implications and potentially suggest timing strategies to minimize your tax burden.

Alternatives to Selling Your Contract

Before you list your Old Key West points, consider whether other options might better meet your needs. If your main concern is that you're not using all your points, you might explore renting out points to other Disney fans. DVC points can be rented for $15 to $20 per point, which can offset your annual dues and even generate some profit.

If you want to experience different resorts, remember that you can use your Old Key West points to book at any DVC resort (subject to availability). You'll lose the 11-month home resort priority booking window, but you gain access to the entire DVC network at the 7-month mark.

Some members choose to add on at different resorts rather than selling their existing contracts. This gives you home resort priority at multiple properties and more total points for longer vacations. Adding on works well if you want to increase your total point ownership and can comfortably afford the additional annual dues.

Another option is adjusting how you use your points. Many Old Key West owners find great value in booking the resort's larger villas during lower-point seasons. A two-bedroom villa in Adventure season might cost fewer points than a studio during Magic season at other resorts.

Choosing the Right Time to Sell

Timing can affect both how quickly your contract sells and the price you receive. The DVC resale market tends to be most active in the first quarter of the year, when people are making vacation plans and have received tax refunds or bonuses.

Holiday periods (November through January) can be slower for resale sales, as potential buyers are focused on year-end spending and family obligations rather than major purchases. However, there are always exceptions, and a well-priced contract can sell in any month.

Consider your contract's point status when timing a sale. Contracts with loaded points (unused points from previous years) often appeal to buyers who want immediate access to extra vacation options. But if you plan to use those banked points yourself, you might wait until after your trip to list the contract.

Your use year also affects timing strategy. For example, if you have a December use year and you're planning to use current-year points for a holiday trip, you might wait until after that vacation to list your contract.

What Buyers Look for in Old Key West Contracts

Understanding what appeals to buyers can help you position your contract effectively. Old Key West contracts with 2057 expiration dates are particularly attractive because they offer the longest ownership period available in the DVC system.

Larger contracts (150+ points) tend to sell faster than smaller ones because they provide more vacation flexibility. Buyers with larger families or those who want to take multiple trips per year often seek out contracts with substantial point totals.

Clean contracts without restrictions or special assessments appeal to most buyers. If your contract has any unusual features or restrictions, your broker can help explain these to potential buyers and position them appropriately.

Buyers also consider the use year carefully. December and February use years align well with school schedules and holiday travel, making them popular choices. But every use year has advantages, and there are buyers for all twelve options.

Working with a Professional Broker

Selling a DVC contract involves legal documents, title transfers, and coordination with Disney's member services. Working with an experienced broker protects your interests and ensures the transaction proceeds smoothly.

Professional brokers understand current market conditions and can price your contract competitively. They also screen potential buyers to ensure they're financially qualified and serious about the purchase.

At DVC Sales, we handle all the paperwork and coordinate with the title company to ensure proper transfer of ownership. We also communicate regularly with both parties throughout the process to address questions and keep the transaction moving forward.

Our experience with hundreds of Old Key West transactions means we understand the common issues that can arise and how to resolve them quickly. This expertise can make the difference between a smooth sale and a transaction that drags on for months.

Life After Selling Your Old Key West Contract

Once you sell your Old Key West points, you'll lose your home resort priority for booking at that resort. If Old Key West was your only DVC contract, you'll also lose all DVC membership benefits including member discounts and special events.

However, if you're planning to purchase points at a different DVC resort, the transition can be relatively smooth. You can often time the sale and purchase to minimize any gap in membership benefits.

Many former Old Key West owners who sell and purchase elsewhere find they're happy with their decision. Different resorts offer different experiences, and switching can reinvigorate your love for DVC vacations.

Some sellers use the proceeds to purchase directly from Disney at a new resort, which provides different benefits like access to new resort previews and special financing options. Others stick with the resale market to maximize their buying power.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

If you're serious about selling your Old Key West points, the first step is getting a realistic assessment of your contract's current market value. You can browse our current DVC resale listings to see comparable contracts, or contact our team for a personalized market analysis.

We've been helping DVC members transition between resorts for over 25 years, and we understand that every family's situation is unique. Whether you're downsizing, upgrading, or simply ready for a change, we can guide you through the process and help you make decisions that align with your family's vacation goals.

Remember that selling your DVC contract is a significant financial decision that deserves careful consideration. Take time to think through your reasons for selling, explore your alternatives, and make sure the timing is right for your family's situation.

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