Understanding Home Resort Priority

Unlock the benefits of Disney Vacation Club home resort priority and make smarter booking decisions for your family’s next Disney adventure.

Understanding how home resort priority works is key to making the most of your Disney Vacation Club membership. For many buyers, a big question is whether their choice of home resort really matters, especially since DVC points at some resorts cost less than others. Let’s explore what home resort priority means, how it impacts your ability to book, and why choosing the right home resort can shape your Disney experience.

What Is Home Resort Priority?

When you buy into the Disney Vacation Club, you select a home resort. This home resort comes with an exclusive booking advantage: you can reserve accommodations at your home resort up to 11 months in advance of your check-in date, while other DVC members can only book there 7 months out. This window is called the Home Resort Priority Rule, and it gives you the best chance at securing the accommodations and dates you want, especially during busy seasons or for popular room types.

The home resort advantage is especially valuable if you plan to visit during peak times such as holidays, school breaks, or popular events. Members who own points at high-demand resorts like Bay Lake Tower or Polynesian often use their priority window to reserve the best rooms before they are available to others. Understanding this rule helps you avoid disappointment and maximize the value of your DVC points.

Home Resort Priority Rule Explained

Members can make reservations at their home resort up to 11 months ahead of check-in, using points from their contract associated with that specific resort. After the 11-month window, at 7 months before check-in, all DVC members can book at any resort, subject to availability.

This booking structure is designed to reward owners and manage demand across the Disney Vacation Club network. If you’re flexible and willing to try different resorts, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to book throughout the DVC system at 7 months out. But if you always want your favorite spot, owning at your preferred home resort is the smart move.

Learn more about point charts and planning with the official Disney Vacation Club points charts.

Choosing the Right Home Resort

So, how do you choose your DVC home resort? Start by thinking about your family’s travel style. Do you have a favorite theme, location, or amenities you love most? If you want the highest chance of staying at a specific resort every trip, select that as your home. For example, if you love the beach theme at Beach Club Villas or the vibrant island vibes at Polynesian, those should be your top picks.

If you’re looking for flexibility and are open to new adventures, you may find great value at other resorts with lower point costs. Compare options easily using the DVC Compare Prices tool or get expert help from the DVC Sales team. Reviewing your family’s vacation patterns, seasonal travel, and preferred room types can help you make a confident decision.

Expert Tips for Maximizing Home Resort Priority

• Book your home resort as soon as the 11-month window opens, especially for holidays or special events.
• Use the Disney Vacation Club Point Calculator to plan the exact points needed.
• Explore other DVC Resorts if you have flexibility after the 7-month window.
• Consult with experienced DVC brokers for insights on resale value and availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What does home resort priority mean for DVC members?
Home resort priority gives members early booking access at their designated resort, typically 11 months before check-in. This advantage helps secure popular dates. Learn more about what is home resort priority to plan your vacations strategically.

Q2: Why is home resort priority important when buying a DVC contract?
It ensures you can book your preferred resort before other members. Choosing a resort you love as your home base helps maximize satisfaction and point value. Review how the buying process works for insights before selecting your contract.

Q3: Can I book other Disney Vacation Club resorts if I own at one?
Yes, DVC members can book other resorts starting 7 months before their stay, subject to availability. You can also explore DVC resale listings to compare options at different home resorts.

Q4: Should I always buy where I want to stay most often?
Absolutely. Since home resort priority gives earlier access, it’s smart to buy where you plan to vacation regularly. For help choosing, see Choosing the Best DVC Home Resort to find the right match for your travel style.