Best DVC Resale

Finding the Best DVC Resale

Identifying the best DVC resale contract requires balancing multiple factors including price, resort location, contract size, and use year timing. The ideal contract varies based on individual vacation preferences, budget constraints, and long-term ownership goals. Understanding what makes a strong resale purchase helps buyers make confident decisions about their Disney Vacation Club investment.

Evaluating Resort Value

The best DVC resale may not be the cheapest option available. Consider which resort aligns with your vacation preferences including location, theming, amenities, and transportation access. Buyers planning frequent Epcot visits might find Beach Club or BoardWalk contracts worth premium pricing despite higher per-point costs than more affordable alternatives like Old Key West.

Home resort booking priority provides 11-month advance access for reservations at your contract's designated property. If you consistently prefer specific resorts, purchasing there provides significant booking advantages. However, flexible travelers can benefit from lower-priced home resorts while still booking elsewhere during the 7-month window when availability allows.

Understanding Resort Differences

Each Disney Vacation Club resort offers unique features and experiences. For example, Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows offer a tropical escape with views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks, while Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas provide a safari-like experience with views of exotic animals. Understanding these differences can help determine which resort will offer the most value for your family.

Price Versus Value Analysis

Per-point pricing provides the standard metric for comparing DVC resale contracts. However, the lowest per-point price may not represent the best overall value. Consider total cost including closing fees, remaining contract years, annual dues, and any included banked points when evaluating true ownership value over time.

Contracts at older resorts like Old Key West offer lower per-point prices but also earlier expiration dates around 2042. Newer resort contracts cost more but provide longer ownership terms extending to 2060 or beyond. Calculate cost per remaining year of ownership to compare long-term value across different resort options and make informed decisions.

Assessing Long-Term Savings

While upfront costs are important, long-term savings are also a critical factor. DVC membership can lead to significant savings over the lifetime of the contract compared to traditional hotel stays, especially for those who visit Disney properties frequently. Consider how often you plan to visit and the potential savings on accommodations over the years.

Optimal Contract Sizing

The best contract size depends on your anticipated vacation frequency and duration. Annual point needs vary significantly based on room types, travel seasons, and resort choices. Calculate your expected point usage before determining appropriate contract size to avoid over-buying points you won't use or under-buying and limiting vacation options.

Larger contracts sometimes offer per-point discounts that improve overall value. However, excess points create annual dues obligations without corresponding vacation benefits. Start with realistic usage estimates rather than optimistic projections when sizing your initial DVC purchase to ensure ownership meets your actual needs.

Flexibility with Points

One of the advantages of DVC membership is the flexibility to bank or borrow points. This allows members to adjust their vacation plans year-to-year based on their needs. Understanding how to effectively manage your points can maximize the value of your membership.

Use Year Considerations

Use year determines when your annual points become available and affects banking and borrowing flexibility. September and October use years provide maximum flexibility for banking points into the following calendar year for holiday trips. June and August use years may complicate summer vacation planning due to point timing constraints.

Consider how use year aligns with your typical vacation planning patterns. If you book far in advance for specific dates, earlier use years work well. Last-minute planners benefit from use years providing fresh points closer to their preferred travel periods when points haven't already been committed.

Contract Extras and Conditions

Some resale contracts include banked points from previous years, adding immediate value beyond the base annual allocation. Contracts with substantial banked points provide extra vacation capacity during your first ownership year. Factor these extras into value comparisons between different listings as they represent real value.

Review contract conditions including any borrowed points that reduce first-year availability. Understand current year point status and ensure the contract meets your near-term vacation needs as well as long-term ownership goals.

Working with Quality Brokers

The best DVC resale experience includes working with reputable brokers who provide accurate information and professional service. Established brokers understand market values, guide price negotiations, and ensure smooth closings. Their expertise helps identify quality contracts and avoid potential problems throughout the entire purchase process from offer through ownership transfer.

When selecting a broker, consider their experience, client reviews, and how well they communicate and respond to your inquiries. A good broker will simplify the complex process of purchasing a resale contract and provide valuable insights into current market trends and potential future developments.

Benefits of Disney Vacation Club Membership

Being a member of the Disney Vacation Club offers numerous benefits beyond just accommodations. Members enjoy discounts on dining, merchandise, and special event tickets at Disney properties. Additionally, DVC membership grants access to exclusive member events and lounges, such as the Top of the World Lounge at Bay Lake Tower.

Moreover, the flexibility of the DVC points system allows members to choose from a variety of accommodation options across different Disney resorts. This flexibility is a significant advantage for families who want to experience different Disney destinations without being tied to one location.

Members can also take advantage of the RCI exchange program, which allows them to trade their DVC points for stays at non-Disney properties worldwide. This feature enhances the value of DVC membership by providing more vacation options beyond Disney resorts.

Understanding the Resale Process

Purchasing a DVC resale involves several steps, starting with selecting a contract that meets your needs. Once a contract is chosen, an offer is made and negotiations may follow. After an agreement is reached, a purchase agreement is signed, and the closing process begins. This typically involves a title company to ensure all legal requirements are met.

It's important to note that while resale purchases can offer savings, they may not include all the perks available to direct purchasers from Disney, such as certain discounts or access to member-exclusive events. Potential buyers should weigh these considerations when deciding between resale and direct purchase options.

Additionally, resale buyers should be aware of the Right of First Refusal (ROFR) process. Disney has the option to purchase the contract at the agreed-upon price before it is sold to a new buyer. Understanding this step is crucial, as it can impact the timeline and outcome of your purchase.