How Many DVC Points Should I Buy?

Summary

This week's episode of the DVC show discusses a common question among first-time Disney Vacation Club (DVC) buyers: how many points should they purchase? The panel emphasizes that there's no one-size-fits-all answer, as it depends on individual needs and preferences. They advise starting with what one can afford and learning the system, noting that most members eventually add more points due to the flexibility and benefits of DVC ownership. The discussion also touches on the importance of choosing a preferred resort, the changing point charts, and the options for banking and borrowing points for future use.

Takeaways

• 🎥 The DVC Show is a weekly episode discussing Disney Vacation Club (DVC) topics, hosted by Pete Warner and featuring various guests.
• 🌟 The show is sponsored by the World of DVC, which includes resources for buying, renting, and financing DVC contracts.
• ❓ A common question among first-time DVC buyers is how many points they should purchase, which is the main topic of this episode.
• 🏨 The number of points to buy depends on the individual's vacation preferences, including the desired resort and type of accommodation.
• 📊 Point charts for newer DVC properties tend to be higher, affecting the number of points needed for a stay compared to older properties.
• 🔍 There is no 'perfect' number of points to buy; it's about starting with what makes financial sense and adjusting as needed.
• 📈 The concept of 'add-on-itis' is introduced, where members often find themselves wanting to add more points to their contracts over time.
• 🗓 Point charts can change due to factors like seasonality and specific dates, such as Easter, affecting the cost per point for certain times of the year.
• 🛒 Members can use the DVC rental store's calculator tool to estimate point needs for different stays and resorts.
• 💡 Buying a DVC contract involves considering factors like frequency of visits, desired room size, and the ability to finance the purchase.
• 🔄 DVC members have the flexibility of banking and borrowing points to accommodate varying travel plans and needs.
• 🏠 Being a local to Disney World doesn't exempt one from the benefits of DVC, as even locals find value in the program for frequent stays.

Q & A

What is the main topic of discussion in this week's episode of the DVC show?

The main topic of discussion is the most common question asked by first-time DVC buyers, specifically, how many points should they buy.

What is the general rule of thumb when deciding where to buy a DVC contract?

The general rule of thumb is to buy where you want to stay, as this is the first place to start in determining how many points you might need.

How have the point charts for newer Disney Vacation Club properties compared to older ones?

Newer point charts for properties like Riviera and the new resort Studios at the Grand Floridian are a bit higher, which affects how many points you might need compared to older properties with more accessible point charts.

Why is it not advisable to wait for the 'perfect' number of points before buying a DVC contract?

It's not advisable because you can never know the exact number of points you'll need, especially if you're not already a member. People's vacation plans and preferences can change, and there's no perfect point number that will remain consistent over time.

What is meant by 'addonitis' in the context of DVC ownership?

'Addonitis' refers to the common tendency for DVC members to want to add more points to their contracts over time, regardless of their initial contract size.

How does the flexibility of banking and borrowing points affect the decision of how many points to buy initially?

Banking and borrowing points provide flexibility, allowing members to use points from future years or save points for a larger vacation. This means you can start with a number you can afford and adjust as needed without being locked into a specific point total.

What is the significance of the 11-month and 7-month booking windows in DVC?

The 11-month window is when members can book their stays for the upcoming year, while the 7-month window is an additional opportunity to book stays. The 7-month window is more unpredictable, so planning for the 11-month window is crucial.

How can someone who is not yet a DVC member estimate the points they might need for a stay?

Non-members can use tools like the DVC rental store's calculator to plug in dates and resorts to see how many points are needed for specific stays, helping them estimate their potential point needs.

What is the recommendation for someone who is unsure about the exact number of points they will need?

The recommendation is to buy what you can afford now, learn how to use the points, and then decide if you need to add more points later based on your vacation planning and preferences.

Why might a local resident to Disney World still find value in having a DVC membership?

Even as a local, a DVC membership can provide benefits such as weekend stays, special event access, and the enjoyment of staying on Disney property without the worry of large vacation expenses.

What resources are available for someone considering becoming a DVC member to get more information and advice?

Resources such as the DVC Forums on disboards.com and the DVC fan Facebook group are great places to ask questions, get feedback from other members, and hear about their experiences.