Learn how Disney's ROFR impacts DVC resale transactions.

When purchasing a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) membership on the resale market, a crucial step is understanding Disney's Right of First Refusal (ROFR). This policy can affect both buyers and sellers and plays a significant role in every resale transaction. While it doesn't involve your vacation stay or refund rights, ROFR determines whether Disney will allow the contract to be sold or decide to repurchase it themselves.

What Is Disney's Right of First Refusal (ROFR)?

The Right of First Refusal is a legal clause included in every DVC contract. It allows Disney Vacation Club to repurchase a resale contract before it transfers to a new buyer. Once a seller and buyer agree on terms, the contract is submitted to Disney for review. If Disney chooses to exercise its ROFR, it steps in and purchases the contract instead of allowing it to go to the buyer.

This is not a refund policy or a customer satisfaction clause; it is strictly part of the DVC resale approval process.

How Does ROFR Work in a DVC Sale?

Once a DVC contract is sold on the resale market, it is sent to Disney for the ROFR review. The process typically takes 7 to 21 business days. During this time:

• If Disney waives ROFR, the contract proceeds to closing with the buyer.
• If Disney exercises ROFR, the buyer is replaced, and Disney becomes the new owner at the same agreed-upon price.

No additional fees or paperwork are required from the seller, but both parties need to understand that Disney has the final say before a resale can close.

To see which contracts Disney has repurchased recently, check the DVC Buy Back Chart.

Why Does Disney Use ROFR?

Disney uses ROFR to:

• Maintain the value of DVC contracts in the resale market
• Reacquire high-demand contracts and points for their inventory
• Prevent contracts from selling too far below market value

It helps Disney manage the availability of ownership across different resorts and maintain consistency across DVC resale pricing.

How Can Buyers and Sellers Prepare?

If you're a buyer, working with a trusted broker like DVC Sales ensures you're well-informed throughout the ROFR process. Brokers can guide you on:

• Current ROFR trends
• Safe offer pricing that minimizes the risk of Disney exercising its rights
• Resort-specific patterns (Some resorts get repurchased more than others)

For sellers, it's helpful to know that ROFR doesn't delay your payment. If Disney buys back the contract, it will pay the same price and close quickly.

What ROFR Is Not

To clarify, ROFR is not the same as a guest-facing policy allowing you to cancel your trip or request a refund during a stay. Disney does not offer a "Right to Refuse" policy based on dissatisfaction during a vacation. If any issue arises during your trip, it's best to contact DVC Member Services or Disney Guest Relations for case-by-case resolution.

Final Thoughts

The Right of First Refusal is an essential part of every DVC resale transaction. While it may sound complicated, it protects the value of your membership and helps Disney maintain a strong resale market. Whether you're buying or selling a contract in 2023, understanding how ROFR works will help you make informed decisions and avoid surprises.