Should I buy DVC from Disney or Resale

Deciding between buying DVC from Disney directly or through the resale market is one of the most important decisions prospective Disney Vacation Club members face. Both options provide access to DVC resort accommodations, but they differ significantly in price, benefits, and overall value proposition. This comprehensive comparison helps you make an informed choice.

Price Comparison

The most significant difference between buying direct and resale is price. Disney sells new DVC points at prices ranging from approximately 200 to 250 dollars per point depending on the resort. Resale prices typically range from 100 to 180 dollars per point, representing savings of 30% to 50% off retail pricing.

On a typical 150-point contract, the price difference can amount to 15,000 to 30,000 dollars. This substantial savings makes resale attractive for families who want DVC membership at a more affordable price point. The savings can be invested, used for other vacation expenses, or simply kept in your budget.

Core Membership Benefits

The fundamental purpose of DVC membership is booking resort accommodations, and this benefit works identically for direct and resale purchasers. Both can book stays at all DVC resorts using the standard reservation system. Both receive the same room categories, amenities, and service levels during their stays.

Banking and borrowing points works the same for both. Annual dues are identical regardless of how membership was acquired. The home resort priority booking window applies equally to direct and resale members. For families focused primarily on Disney resort vacations, the core product is the same.

Direct Purchase Exclusive Benefits

Disney provides additional benefits exclusively to direct purchasers that are not available to resale buyers. The Member Extras program offers discounts on merchandise, dining, tours, and special experiences throughout Disney properties. These savings can add up for frequent visitors who take advantage of available discounts.

Direct members can use points for certain external exchange programs and other ancillary benefits that are restricted for resale points. Disney occasionally offers special experiences, events, or perks available only to direct purchasers.

The ability to exchange points through certain programs and access specific member benefits may hold value for families who would actively use these features. Evaluate honestly whether you would take advantage of these extras when assessing their value.

Additional Considerations for Direct Purchase

When purchasing directly from Disney, members typically receive a more streamlined buying process with immediate access to all available benefits. Disney also offers financing options for direct purchases, which can be appealing for some buyers. Additionally, direct buyers often have access to new resorts and points that are not yet available on the resale market.

Resale Restrictions

Points purchased through resale carry certain restrictions. Resale members cannot access Member Extras discounts. They cannot use points for some external exchange programs available to direct members. These restrictions apply only to resale-purchased points, not to any direct points the member may also own.

The restrictions do not affect the primary vacation value of booking DVC resort stays. Resale members can book the same rooms at the same times as direct members. The restrictions impact supplementary benefits rather than core membership functionality.

Understanding the Resale Process

Buying on the resale market typically involves working with a licensed real estate broker who specializes in DVC contracts. The process can take longer than buying direct, as it involves negotiations, contract reviews, and Disney's right of first refusal, which allows Disney to purchase the contract themselves if they choose.

Calculating the Value Difference

To evaluate whether direct benefits justify the price premium, calculate what you would need to save annually through Member Extras to break even on the additional cost. If a direct purchase costs 25,000 dollars more than resale, and you own for 25 years, you would need to save 1,000 dollars annually in member extras to justify the premium.

Most families find it difficult to achieve that level of annual savings through member extras, particularly when visits are limited to once or twice per year. The math typically favors resale for families focused primarily on resort accommodations.

Hybrid Ownership Strategy

Some families pursue hybrid strategies, buying a small direct contract to access member benefits while purchasing additional points through resale for accommodations. This approach provides some direct benefits at lower total cost than buying everything direct.

Direct points can be used strategically for activities that provide member benefit value, while resale points handle the bulk of accommodation needs. This strategy requires more planning but can optimize value for families who would genuinely use member extras.

Making Your Decision

Choose direct purchase if member extras and ancillary benefits align with your vacation style and you would genuinely use them frequently. Choose resale if your primary interest is resort accommodations and the significant price savings better serve your financial goals.

Most families find resale provides excellent value for their vacation needs. Contact DVC Sales to explore resale options and discuss which approach best matches your priorities.