Disney Vacation Club Guide: Timeshare Tips & Savings
Introduction: What is Disney Vacation Club?
Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is Disney's timeshare program. It lets families enjoy Disney vacations for years. Members buy points they can use at Disney resorts. These points work like a vacation currency. You use them to book stays at Disney properties.
DVC started in 1991. It has grown to include many resorts. There are locations at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and other places. Members can also use points for Disney cruises and adventures worldwide.
This guide will explain everything about DVC. You will learn how it works. We will cover costs, benefits, and how to join. We will also share tips to save money. This information will help you decide if DVC is right for your family.
Many families love DVC. It makes Disney vacations more affordable over time. But it is a big decision. You should understand all details before joining. This guide gives you all the facts you need.
How Disney Vacation Club Works
The Points System Explained
DVC uses a points system. You buy a certain number of points each year. These points are your vacation currency. You use them to book stays at DVC resorts.
Points are based on your ownership contract. You choose how many points to buy. Common amounts are 100, 150, or 200 points. More points mean longer stays or better rooms.
Points have different values throughout the year. Peak seasons cost more points. For example, Christmas week needs more points than September. You need to plan your trips around point costs.
Points expire if not used. You can bank points to next year. Or you can borrow points from next year. This gives flexibility for planning bigger vacations.
Home Resort Advantage
Your home resort is where you buy points. You get booking priority at your home resort. You can book there 11 months in advance. Other resorts open at 7 months.
Choosing your home resort is important. Think about where you want to stay most often. Popular home resorts include:
- Beach Club Villas
- Animal Kingdom Lodge
- Polynesian Village Resort
- Grand Floridian Resort
Your home resort affects availability. During busy times, other resorts may be full. Your home resort gives you the best chance to get your preferred dates.
Membership Benefits and Perks
DVC members get special benefits. These include:
- Discounted annual passes
- Member-only events
- Special merchandise discounts
- Dining discounts at Disney restaurants
- Access to member lounges
Members also get discounts on Disney cruises. There are savings on guided tours too. These perks can save you hundreds of dollars each year.
Not all benefits are guaranteed. Disney can change them anytime. But most benefits have been consistent over the years.
Costs and Financial Considerations
Initial Purchase Costs
Buying DVC points costs money upfront. Current prices range from $180 to $250 per point. A 150-point contract would cost $27,000 to $37,500.
You can buy directly from Disney. Or you can buy resale contracts. Resale contracts are usually cheaper. But they may have some restrictions.
There are closing costs too. These include paperwork fees. They typically cost $400 to $600. You must pay these when you complete your purchase.
Annual Dues and Fees
DVC members pay annual dues. These cover maintenance and taxes. Dues vary by resort. They typically cost $7 to $9 per point each year.
For 150 points, annual dues would be $1,050 to $1,350. Dues increase slightly most years. You must budget for these ongoing costs.
There are also membership fees. The DVC membership fee is about $105 per year. This pays for administration costs.
Resale Market Considerations
Buying resale can save money. Resale contracts cost 30-50% less than direct purchases. But there are some limitations.
Resale buyers may not get all member benefits. They cannot use points for Disney cruises or adventures. They also cannot get certain discounts.
Resale contracts are still good for resort stays. They work the same way for booking DVC properties. Many families choose resale to save money.
DVC Resort Properties Overview
Walt Disney World Resorts
Walt Disney World has many DVC resorts. Each has unique themes and benefits. Popular options include:
Animal Kingdom Lodge: See animals from your balcony. This resort has savanna views. It feels like an African safari.
Beach Club Villas: Close to Epcot. Has the best pool complex at Disney. Stormalong Bay has a sand bottom and water slide.
Bay Lake Tower: Walking distance to Magic Kingdom. Modern rooms with great views. You can see fireworks from many rooms.
Old Key West: Disney's first DVC resort. Large rooms and peaceful setting. Has multiple swimming pools and tennis courts.
Disneyland Resort Properties
Disneyland has two DVC properties:
Disney's Grand Californian Hotel: Direct access to California Adventure park. Beautiful craftsman-style architecture. Premium location and amenities.
The Villas at Disney's Grand Californian: Part of the main hotel. Same great location. Special villa accommodations for families.
Other Locations and Partners
DVC has resorts beyond Disney parks. These include:
- Aulani in Hawaii
- Vero Beach in Florida
- Hilton Head Island in South Carolina
Members can also use points for non-Disney vacations. The World Passport Collection offers global destinations. You can book hotels worldwide through partner programs.
Practical Tips for DVC Members
Booking Strategies
Planning ahead is key. Book at 11 months for home resort. Book at 7 months for other resorts. Popular times fill quickly.
Be flexible with travel dates. Weekdays need fewer points than weekends. September and January are lower demand months.
Use waitlists if your first choice is full. Waitlists often come through. Many members get their preferred dates this way.
Point Management
Bank points you won't use. Do this before the banking deadline. Usually 4 months before use year ends.
Borrow points carefully. Only borrow what you need. Remember borrowed points must be used that year.
Consider renting points. If you have extra points, rent them to other families. This can help cover annual dues.
Maximizing Value
Stay in studio rooms. They cost fewer points than larger villas. Good for shorter trips or smaller families.
Travel during value seasons. Point costs are lower. Crowds are smaller too.
Use member discounts. Save on dining, merchandise, and tours. These savings add up over time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Joining DVC
Step 1: Research and Education
Learn everything about DVC first. Read official materials. Talk to current members. Understand all costs and benefits.
Visit DVC resorts if possible. Take a tour during your Disney vacation. Sales guides can answer questions.
Compare direct vs resale purchases. Decide which option fits your budget and needs.
Step 2: Choose Your Home Resort
Pick where you want to stay most often. Consider location, theme, and point costs. Think about future vacation plans.
Research different resorts. Read reviews from other owners. Check annual dues for each property.
Step 3: Determine Point Amount
Calculate how many points you need. Consider:
- How often you visit Disney
- What room type you prefer
- What time of year you travel
- How long you typically stay
Start with fewer points if unsure. You can always add more later. But it's harder to reduce points.
Step 4: Complete Purchase
Work with Disney or resale broker. Review contract carefully. Understand all terms and conditions.
Pay required deposits and fees. Complete paperwork. Wait for Disney to process your membership.
Step 5: Start Planning Vacations
Once membership is active, start booking. Use member website or app. Plan your first DVC vacation.
Learn the booking system. Understand point charts. Enjoy your new vacation ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Disney Vacation Club worth the cost?
DVC can save money for families who visit Disney often. If you go every year or two, it may be worth it. But you need to calculate costs based on your travel habits.
Can I rent out my DVC points?
Yes, you can rent points to other people. Many owners do this through rental companies. It can help cover annual dues. But there are rules about commercial renting.
What happens if I can't pay annual dues?
If you stop paying dues, Disney can foreclose on your contract. You would lose your ownership. Always budget for annual costs before buying.
Can I sell my DVC contract?
Yes, you can sell your DVC ownership. Many resale companies handle DVC contracts. You may get back some of your initial investment.
Do DVC points expire?
DVC contracts typically last 50 years. Points don't expire within your contract term. But unused points each year must be banked or they're lost.
Can I use DVC points for non-Disney vacations?
Yes, through the World Passport Collection. But value is usually better at Disney resorts. Most members use points primarily for Disney stays.
What's the difference between direct and resale?
Direct purchases come from Disney. Resale purchases come from current owners. Resale costs less but may have benefit restrictions.
Real Examples and Statistics
Member Satisfaction Data
According to Disney Tourist Blog, DVC has high member satisfaction. Over 90% of members say they're happy with their purchase. Most plan to renew their contracts.
The average DVC member visits Disney 2-3 times per year. They typically stay 5-7 nights each visit. This makes the cost per night lower than cash rates.
Cost Comparison Examples
Let's compare costs for a family of four:
Cash rate example: Beach Club Resort standard room during summer. $600 per night x 5 nights = $3,000
DVC point example: Same room type and dates. 100 points needed. Annual dues for 100 points = $800. Plus portion of initial purchase.
Over 10 years, DVC costs less per night. The break-even point is usually 5-7 years for most families.
Resale Value Trends
DVC contracts hold value well. According to DVC Resale Market, most contracts sell for 60-80% of original price. Some popular resorts even appreciate in value.
Animal Kingdom Lodge contracts have strong resale value. So do Polynesian and Grand Floridian. Location and demand affect resale prices.
Conclusion: Is DVC Right for You?
Disney Vacation Club offers great value for the right families. It works best if you love Disney vacations. You should plan to visit every year or two.
Consider your vacation habits first. Do you enjoy Disney parks? Will you use the membership regularly? Can you afford the upfront costs and annual fees?
DVC is a long-term commitment. Contracts last decades. But they can be sold if your situation changes.
For many families, DVC creates magical memories. It makes Disney vacations more affordable. The benefits and discounts add extra value.
Do your research before buying. Talk to current members. Calculate costs carefully. Then decide if DVC fits your family's vacation dreams.
Remember, DVC is about more than saving money. It's about creating traditions. It's about family time in the Disney magic. For the right families, it's truly priceless.