Buying DVC Resale from Disney

Buying DVC Resale from Disney: Clarifying a Common Misconception

Some prospective DVC buyers wonder if they can purchase resale contracts directly from Disney rather than through third-party brokers. Understanding how Disney participates in the resale market clarifies your actual purchase options.

Can You Buy Resale from Disney?

No, Disney does not sell resale contracts at discounted prices. Disney only sells DVC points at full retail prices through their direct sales channels. The term buying resale from Disney represents a misunderstanding of how the market operates.

When you purchase from Disney, you pay Disney's current prices regardless of how Disney acquired those points. There is no discounted resale option through Disney's sales channels.

How Disney Acquires Resale Contracts

Disney does acquire contracts through their Right of First Refusal (ROFR) policy. When resale transactions occur at prices Disney finds attractive, they can exercise ROFR and purchase those contracts instead of allowing them to transfer to buyers.

However, contracts Disney acquires through ROFR become part of their inventory and are resold at full retail prices, not at the discounted prices the original resale transaction involved. Disney uses ROFR to build inventory, not to offer resale pricing.

Why Resale Prices Are Lower

Resale prices are lower because they reflect market competition between individual sellers. Members selling their contracts compete for buyer attention, creating price pressure that drives resale prices below Disney's retail levels.

Disney, as the original seller with no competition for new points, maintains premium pricing. The 40% to 60% discount available through resale exists because sellers are individuals, not Disney.

Accessing Resale Pricing

To access resale pricing, you must work with licensed third-party resale brokers. These brokers facilitate transactions between individual sellers and buyers, providing the marketplace where discounted prices exist.

• Research brokers: Multiple brokers operate in the DVC resale market, each maintaining listings of contracts for sale. Shopping through these brokers is the only way to access the significant savings the resale market offers.
• Understand the process: Brokers assist in navigating the complexities of resale transactions, from negotiations to closing, ensuring the process is smooth and transparent.

Direct Purchase Through Disney

If you prefer working with Disney directly, you can purchase through their sales centers at resorts or via phone consultations. Direct purchase provides full membership benefits and immediate activation but at significantly higher prices.

The direct purchase experience is simpler than resale, with Disney handling all aspects of the transaction. This convenience comes at a substantial price premium that many buyers cannot justify.

Comparing Your Options

Your options are clear: pay full price through Disney for complete benefits and simple transactions, or pay significantly less through resale brokers while accepting certain benefit restrictions. Both paths lead to DVC membership.

• Calculate the cost difference for your desired point quantity. Determine how much value the restricted benefits hold for your family. This analysis typically reveals whether direct or resale better serves your needs.
• Consider long-term savings: While direct purchases offer immediate benefits, resale purchases often result in significant long-term savings, which can be reinvested into future vacations or other family priorities.

Working with Resale Brokers

Licensed resale brokers provide professional services facilitating transactions between buyers and sellers. They maintain listings, help negotiate prices, and coordinate with title companies for closing. Their expertise makes the process manageable.

Research multiple brokers to compare inventory, pricing, and customer reviews. Established brokers with strong reputations provide reliable service throughout your transaction.

Making Your Purchase Decision

Understanding that Disney does not offer resale pricing helps set realistic expectations. If cost savings matter, the resale market through third-party brokers is your path. If you prefer Disney's direct involvement and can afford the premium, direct purchase remains available.

Both options provide legitimate paths to DVC membership. Choose the one that best aligns with your budget, priorities, and comfort level with different transaction processes.

Ultimately, the decision between buying resale or directly from Disney will depend on your personal preferences, financial situation, and how you value the benefits associated with each option. By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed choice that best suits your needs and enhances your Disney vacation experience.