DVC by Resale

DVC by Resale: Your Guide to Secondary Market Purchases

Acquiring DVC membership by purchasing through the resale market offers substantial savings compared to buying directly from Disney. This guide covers what you need to know about buying DVC by resale.

What Is DVC by Resale?

Buying DVC by resale means purchasing an existing Disney Vacation Club contract from a current member rather than buying directly from Disney. These transactions occur through licensed resale brokers who facilitate sales between individual sellers and buyers.

The resale market has operated for decades alongside Disney's direct sales. Thousands of contracts change hands annually, making resale a well-established path to DVC membership. This alternative route allows potential buyers to enter the DVC community without the premium cost associated with direct purchases.

Why Choose Resale?

Cost savings represent the primary motivation for buying DVC by resale. Resale prices typically run 40% to 60% below Disney's direct prices. For a typical contract, this difference amounts to thousands of dollars in savings. These savings can be significant, allowing families to allocate their budget to other vacation experiences or even purchase additional points for extended stays.

These savings make DVC membership accessible to families who cannot afford direct purchase prices. The substantial cost difference allows buyers to either purchase more points or preserve savings for other purposes. It's important to note that while the initial cost is lower, buyers should still be aware of ongoing maintenance fees associated with DVC ownership.

What You Receive

Buying DVC by resale provides the core membership benefit of booking deluxe Disney resort accommodations using your points. Your home resort priority, general booking access, and point management flexibility work identically to direct purchases.

Your vacation experience at DVC resorts is the same regardless of purchase method. Room quality, member amenities, and resort services are identical for all owners. This means that once you are a member, your enjoyment of Disney's hospitality and the magic of their resorts remains consistent.

Understanding Restrictions

Disney has implemented restrictions on resale purchases affecting supplementary benefits. These may include limited access to Member Getaways, Disney Collection, and certain discounts. The restrictions affect perks beyond core resort booking.

Most buyers accept these restrictions given the substantial savings. Evaluate which benefits matter to your vacation planning when deciding whether resale provides appropriate value. For many, the savings outweigh the loss of certain perks, especially if their primary focus is on enjoying the Disney resorts themselves.

The Purchase Process

Buying DVC by resale involves working with licensed brokers who maintain listings of available contracts. After finding a suitable contract, you submit an offer and negotiate terms. Accepted offers proceed through Disney's Right of First Refusal (ROFR) review.

If ROFR passes, the transaction proceeds to closing where title companies manage document preparation and ownership transfer. After closing, Disney registers you as the new owner and activates your membership. It's a detailed process that requires patience and attention to detail, but with the help of a knowledgeable broker, it can be navigated smoothly.

Timeline Expectations

The complete process from offer to membership typically takes 60 to 90 days. ROFR review accounts for the largest portion, taking up to 30 days. Closing and registration add several additional weeks.

Plan your vacation expectations accordingly. Do not make reservations requiring your points until Disney confirms your membership is fully active. This timeline can vary, so staying in communication with your broker and being flexible with your planning is advisable.

Finding the Right Contract

When shopping for resale contracts, consider several factors. The home resort determines your booking priority. Point allocation defines your vacation capacity. Use year timing affects when your annual points become available.

Research different resorts to understand which best suits your preferences. Compare prices across multiple broker listings to understand market value for your target resort and contract characteristics. This research phase is crucial and can significantly impact your satisfaction with your purchase.

Working with Brokers

Licensed resale brokers facilitate transactions between buyers and sellers. Research multiple brokers to compare inventory, pricing, and customer reviews. Experienced brokers make the process smooth and professional.

Your broker guides you through the purchase process, from finding contracts to closing. Their expertise helps navigate potential complications and ensures successful membership acquisition. It's essential to choose a broker you trust and feel comfortable working with throughout the process.

Making Your Decision

Buying DVC by resale requires weighing cost savings against benefit restrictions. For families focused on Disney resort stays, resale typically provides excellent value. Research thoroughly, understand what you are purchasing, and make an informed decision aligned with your vacation goals.

Ultimately, the decision to purchase DVC by resale should align with your family's vacation habits and financial goals. By taking the time to understand the process and what you can expect, you can make a choice that enhances your Disney experiences for years to come.