DVC Direct vs Resale

DVC Direct vs Resale: Making the Right Choice

Choosing between purchasing DVC directly from Disney or through the resale market is a significant decision. Understanding the differences helps you select the option that best fits your budget and vacation priorities.

Price Comparison

The most significant difference between direct and resale purchase is price. Resale contracts typically cost 40% to 60% less than Disney's direct prices for equivalent points at the same resort. This difference can amount to thousands of dollars in savings.

For a 150-point contract, resale savings often exceed ten thousand dollars. This substantial difference makes resale attractive to budget-conscious buyers seeking DVC membership without premium pricing.

Core Benefits: Equal Access

Both direct and resale purchases provide the same core membership benefit: booking deluxe Disney resort accommodations using your points. Booking procedures, home resort priority, and point management features work identically regardless of purchase method.

Your vacation experience at DVC resorts is indistinguishable whether you purchased direct or resale. Room quality, member amenities, and resort services are identical for all members.

Direct Purchase Advantages

Direct purchases include full access to supplementary membership benefits. These include Member Getaways destinations, Disney Collection options for cruises and adventures, and various discounts. Direct buyers can also add points at any DVC resort.

The direct purchase process is simpler and faster than resale. Working with Disney sales representatives provides streamlined transactions with immediate membership activation. Some buyers value this convenience and Disney's direct support.

Resale Purchase Advantages

Resale's primary advantage is substantial cost savings. The money saved can fund additional vacations, cover years of annual dues, or serve other financial priorities. For many families, these savings make DVC membership affordable.

Despite restrictions, resale provides excellent vacation value for families focused on DVC resort stays. The core booking benefits justify the investment for buyers who prioritize resort accommodations over supplementary perks.

Resale Restrictions Explained

Disney has implemented restrictions on resale purchases affecting supplementary benefits. These may include limited Member Getaways access, Disney Collection eligibility, and certain discounts. The specific restrictions depend on contract purchase dates.

These restrictions affect benefits beyond core resort booking. Members primarily interested in staying at DVC resorts may not notice significant impact from these limitations.

Evaluating Restriction Impact

Consider which restricted benefits you would actually use. If Member Getaways and Disney Collection do not appeal to your vacation style, losing access has minimal practical impact. If these options would enhance your vacations significantly, their value may justify direct purchase pricing.

Calculate the monetary value of restricted benefits against the savings resale provides. Most buyers find the savings substantially exceed the value of forfeited perks.

Financial Considerations

Beyond purchase price, consider financing options. Disney offers financing for direct purchases that is not available for resale. If you require financing, compare available terms and interest rates between Disney financing and alternative lending options.

Calculate total ownership cost including purchase price, financing costs, and ongoing annual dues. This comprehensive view helps compare the true cost of direct versus resale options.

Making Your Decision

Your decision between direct and resale depends on personal priorities. If supplementary benefits matter significantly and budget allows, direct purchase provides complete access. If cost savings matter most and you will primarily use resort booking, resale offers superior value.

Neither option is universally better. The right choice depends on your specific financial situation, vacation preferences, and how you value the different benefits each option provides.

Understanding the Buying Process

For those new to the Disney Vacation Club, understanding the buying process can be crucial. When buying directly from Disney, the process is typically straightforward. You work with a DVC sales representative who guides you through the available resorts, point charts, and purchase contracts. Once you decide, the transaction is completed, and your membership is activated relatively quickly.

In contrast, the resale market involves working with a licensed real estate agent who specializes in DVC contracts. After finding a contract that suits your needs, you make an offer. If accepted, the contract goes through a Right of First Refusal (ROFR) process, where Disney has the option to purchase the contract themselves. If Disney waives this right, the transaction proceeds, but it can take several weeks to finalize.

Long-term Considerations

When deciding between direct and resale, consider long-term implications. Direct buyers may have more flexibility in adding points in the future, as they can purchase additional points at any resort. This is particularly useful for growing families or those anticipating increased vacation needs.

Resale buyers should be aware that while they can purchase additional resale contracts, the availability and terms may vary. Additionally, any future restrictions Disney imposes may further differentiate the benefits between direct and resale purchases.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between DVC direct and resale is personal and should be based on your financial situation, vacation habits, and the value you place on supplementary benefits. By understanding the differences, potential restrictions, and financial implications, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your family's needs and priorities.