ROFR in DVC Resales: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know
When buying or selling a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) contract on the resale market, it's crucial to understand ROFR, or Right of First Refusal. This clause gives Disney the ability to review and possibly purchase any DVC resale contract before it officially transfers to a new owner.
What Is ROFR in DVC Resales?
ROFR stands for Right of First Refusal. Included in every DVC membership, this clause allows Disney to step in and purchase a resale contract at the same price and terms offered by the buyer. This applies to every contract sold on the secondary market.
How the ROFR Process Works
Once both the buyer and seller sign the purchase agreement, the title company submits the contract to Disney for review. At this point, Disney will either:
- Waive ROFR- allowing the transaction to move forward as planned.
- Exercise ROFR- stepping in as the buyer under the same price and terms.
If Disney waives their right, the buyer proceeds to closing and becomes the new owner. If Disney exercises ROFR, it buys the contract instead, and the original buyer must search for another listing. You can view current listings and see which contracts are still available.
What ROFR Means for Sellers and Buyers
For sellers, ROFR has no financial impact. Whether Disney or the original buyer closes the deal, the seller receives the full agreed-upon amount.
For buyers, however, ROFR introduces a layer of uncertainty. That's why understanding ROFR in DVC resales can help you make smarter offers and avoid disappointment.
Why Disney Exercises ROFR
Disney uses ROFR to:
- Control resale inventory
- Maintain pricing consistency
- Retain high-demand contracts at resorts like Grand Floridian or Bay Lake Tower.
By exercising ROFR, Disney can acquire prime contracts and influence resale market trends. We monitor these trends closely at DVC Sales, compiling monthly reports on ROFR activity to help buyers strategize.
How to Reduce Your ROFR Risk
If you're a buyer, working with an experienced resale broker can help you identify listings less likely to be taken by Disney. We track ROFR decisions across all resorts and provide real-time data to guide your offer. If you're a seller, we can help you price your contract competitively, without attracting unwanted attention from Disney. You can also use our partner site DVC Market to compare pricing and ROFR history across resorts.
Expert Guidance Through the DVC Resale Process
Have more questions about ROFR in DVC resales, current market trends, or how to approach your offer?
Our team is here to provide expert, real-time guidance from start to finish. Whether you're listing a contract or buying your first one, understanding ROFR is key to navigating the resale market with confidence.