Disney Vacation Club - A Complete Breakdown

[@thebige333]

This was the most comprehensive breakdown of the numbers I’ve seen so far. It is best to calculate the value per point for the entire remaining contract this way to see how much each point really costs. (Check out 13:23) I’ve been a member for a few years now. I’m loving it because I am a planner and flexible with my vacation dates so it works for me. Thanks guys for making this video!

[@BillEricPhotography]

Thanks for the feedback Eric!

[@DougThacker]

Finally DVC is explained in a way we can understand! Great job guys and thank you so much...DVC is definitely on the family's horizon!

[@BillEricPhotography]

Happy to help! Enjoy it! We have!

[@mockone]

Great video guys! Spot on with your comments and info around DVC and all the benefits you can get out of it. Before we bought in the one thing I always heard was "it changes the way you do Disney" and that is so true! Because you now KNOW you're going to return you can take your time, enjoy the parks and resorts, try out new resorts, etc etc. It's also allowed us to go way more than we normally would. Taking a quick weekend trip now is possible when it seems like the room is "free" and there are ways to get some savings on your yearly dues too, not huge but it helps! I also love that you get to try out new resorts and get way more for your money than usual. Like you guys pointed out, if you tried to stay in one of these rooms normally you're going to be shelling out tons of money. The savings is definitely there if you're going at least once a year and staying at a moderate or above. Buying on the resale market is also a great way to get into this at a fraction of the cost in some instances. We've done both and there are pros and cons both ways for sure. I think the big thing that stuck out to me was that this isn't your typical timeshare, you're not stuck with a week/month forever or staying at one particular place etc. It's so flexible and booking online is enjoyable, it's fun to see what you can get. Our home resort is AKL but rarely do we stay there only because we love to try out other resorts or pick one near what we want to focus on that trip which is awesome to be able to do. There's also all the benefits you get, like the discounts and special events, which just add to the enjoyment. Moonlight magic itself is almost worth the cost! (ok maybe not that much...) And there's also the priceless stuff that for a Disney fanatic tops it off, like the 'welcome home' you get from cast members or the magic band light turning purple. You also get to meet so many great people this way as well. I find that once other people know you're in the cool DVC club and they are too they open up very fast because they know you're as crazy as they are! :)

[@BillEricPhotography]

Thanks Matt, you made a ton of great points there! The best might be when the magic band light turns purple, it’s the silliest little thing but it makes you feel so good!! You’re right though that it changes the way you do Disney, and that might be the #1 argument for becoming a member! Thanks again for your input! -Eric

[@Wildcat32615]

DVC member here since 1996 TFS you both have explained DVC so great. I will recommend your videos. NY

[@BillEricPhotography]

Thank you Judi 😄👍🏻

[@Snoooopy445]

I like the fact that you guys didn't talk over each other and you give us the basic information needed to really think about DVC.

[@BillEricPhotography]

Happy to help, it's a big decision and an expensive one. I think for most families you really have to think it through and it definitely doesn't make sense for everyone. This is really just our experiences with it.

[@briantelesh3745]

Great video guys. Our family have been DVC members since 2002. I can't tell you how many times I reccomend folks do their own math, let them know how we use our membership and let them know its not for everyone - especially non planners. I'm smiling as I hear other DVC veterans saying the same thing. Our favorite thing is to share DVC with friends and family that would never been able to have this experience. We own at Beach Club and have added on at BC via resale market. Best decision we've ever made.

[@BillEricPhotography]

I definitely agree with you. Not for everyone for sure. But if you are a planner and going to go every year anyway I think it makes sense. Especially if you like the nicer resorts.

[@IlovTrunks16]

Thank you so much! This is the first video that has allowed me to understand the basics of DVC.

[@BillEricPhotography]

Happy to hear that!

[@FaeDruid]

“Hard to get rooms.” Yes very hard now. People need to keep that in mind. I have been an owner for almost 20 years now. It was definitely worth the investment back then. Maybe it is now, too. Just bear in mind that you really need to like your home resort, because I have not been able to book rooms anywhere else for a couple of years now.

[@BillEricPhotography]

I actually rented my points to someone for this summer. They wanted to stay at the Polynesian for 6 nights. I was able to get them all six nights at the seven-month window. I think you just have to be organized and book as soon as possible

[@JuanRodriguez-ge5rv]

It REALLY depends on the time of the year and the room you want. My son has Spring Break in the 3rd week of March, since Palm Beach County is the only large county that has spring break at this time of the year, it's not an issue for us to stay all over Disney. We own at Vero Beach, but have stayed at Bay Lake Tower, Beach Club, Boardwalk, Saratoga, Kidani AND Jambo at Animal Kingdom, and Old Key West. However, we usually stay at either a 1BR or 2BR Villa and I have noticed that the Studios are much harder to get. My brother owns at Grand Floridian, but his kids have Spring Break the following week, utilized by both Broward and Dade counties, pretty much the 2 biggest counties in Florida and so for him, it's practically impossible to get a Studio in anything other than his home resort during spring break. Also, if you're trying to get a Studio less than 4 months from Checkin, it's almost impossible in ANY situation.

[@pdb2k154]

Juan Rodriguez hey someone from south Florida

[@leeladiaz5786]

This was SO helpful! Thank you guys!! Nice to hear the truth from regular people and not salesman making a commission:)

[@BillEricPhotography]

Happy to help! We actually did about an hour and a half episode on the Disney guys uncensored podcast. It was all about the DVC, that would be a good one to listen to also.

[@leeladiaz5786]

Disney Image Makers I just listened to the whole thing! (The podcast on it). Thanks again:)

[@BillEricPhotography]

That's great, hope it helped you.

[@MononokeLynn]

Thanks for the explanation. It comes down to a fancy time-share.

[@BillEricPhotography]

Pretty much but it holds its value over time. I can probably sell mine for pretty close to what I bought it for. And you will always be staying at the best accommodations in Walt Disney World at a fraction of the price. Check out the Disney guy's podcast. We did a whole episode on DVC last week with them. Eric breaks down all of the numbers and really shows how much money you can save.

[@badbiker666]

My wife and I bought a DVC membership in 2001. We purchased 150 points at Wilderness Lodge and it cost us $14,000. I financed it over a period of years so the interest would have to be factored into a per-point cost analysis. I have never done such an analysis because, well, I just didn't care. In 2013 I was forced to sell my membership to a third party company that buys and sells time shares. It killed me, but I suffered a terrible financial set-back and even though by that time my membership was paid for, I couldn't afford the monthly maintenance dues. This year (2019) we bought 75 "used" points at Old Key West from another third-party company for much less than Disney was selling - less than half actually. We will be using our new points on our next trip in February 2020 and we can't wait. For us, the cost of membership is well worth it and I talk about it all the time. We love Disney and we love DVC. It's win-win-win for us, Disney, and the third party. can't beat that.

[@BillEricPhotography]

You are right, the cost of interest has to be factored in, but the elimination of inflation (total points charged never increase) would offset the interest cost. It’s definitely a win-win if you are a Disney fan and plan to visit once a year. Glad to hear that you are back in the DVC family! Welcome home!!

[@markphillipson3713]

Great Vlog guys, the best explanation of the DVC I've seen. You mentioned the key thing with this purchase, it's planning. Disney building new DVC Resorts so they must think they can fill them. In the long run all other expenses tickets, food, transportation will cost more than the membership.

[@BillEricPhotography]

You definitely need to be a planner to take full advantage of the DVC. It's getting harder and harder to get certain dates and you have to be on top of when the booking windows are. Walt Disney World is an expensive place but if you know you are going to go every year anyway this is a way to save some money on accommodations. Although the new resorts points structure is getting very expensive. Thanks for watching

[@Julie1019]

This was hugely helpful. Thank you so much.

[@BillEricPhotography]

Our pleasure Julie. It's a big investment and it's very confusing so I'm glad it helped you. Bill

[@janicepetruccelli9572]

@@BillEricPhotography.

[@harolddevoti2082]

Great video guys, you hit all the points... been a DVC member since ‘98 and joined much like Bill...took our first visit in ‘96 with our sons who were 3 and 2 and fell in love! Definitely has paid for itself over the years; we bought at average of $70 a point and have about 350 points at the Boardwalk

[@BillEricPhotography]

Thanks! You got in nice and early. I don't know that the value is the same for new owners but I hope it is.

[@ld7481]

I was looking into DVC, but the prices have doubled since you all bought the plan. I’m not too Sure if it’ll be worth it since Disney have dramatically raised their prices. For the Rivera home it’s 191 dollars per point, their cheapest plan.

[@BillEricPhotography]

That is a lot. I don't think I would buy in now either. Bill

[@thomasjacky9241]

The Disney Cast Member didn't flinch when I asked if my friend and I could take pictures with the Abominable Snowman after the Mattahorn brokedown. The Cast Member even offered to take a few pictures of us together the Beast still in motion. Best ride experience we ever had! Thanks Disneyland!

[@BillEricPhotography]

Wow that’s a great experience. Disney cast members are the best!!

[@geofferypmeyers]

Depending on how long you’ve had your contract and the resort it is at, you can make some of your money back when and if you sell it, so that is something to factor in as well.

[@BillEricPhotography]

Yes there is definitely a resale market, even more so now that the prices have increased over the last few years.

[@geofferypmeyers]

Disney Image Makers you could easily make all of your money back if it was the right resort at the right time and the right price! But that’s kind of like playing the stock market. There’s no guarantee you’ll get any part of this investment back so it’s best to run the numbers before any resale value.

[@BillEricPhotography]

I couldn’t have said it any better. Thanks!

[@p00d78]

Lots of good information. I'll be checking back. Thanx

[@BillEricPhotography]

Happy to help! Thanks for watching.

[@soccertl]

Great info. I wish I knew more about this about 30 years ago. At 61 I am not sure it is worth it anymore.

[@BillEricPhotography]

that really depends if you think you are going to use it. If you are staying at Disney's nice resorts anyway it might still make sense for you. The membership is transferable and you can sell it.

[@thegarciasfam6583]

Can you used them at Disneyland as well? We go every year to Disneyland we haven't been able to go to disney world because it costs us a lot. So we wore thinking on buying timeshare from Wyndham but now that I see this video im debating in getting time share with Disney

[@BillEricPhotography]

You can use them at Grand Californian but they really don't have that many rooms in Disneyland. You might want to go on to a forum that specializes in Disneyland and ask some questions. We use ours primarily in Walt Disney World but I did use them last year in Disneyland for 4 nights. Bill

[@sharlenemoore6007]

Great job guys we love our DVC.

[@BillEricPhotography]

Thanks Sharlene! Glad you liked it! Hopefully it helps some people.

[@Hopinforpeaceonearth]

This is the best video I have seen so far!!!! My question is.........Can you make ANY resort your home resort or do they close sales of certain resorts. I am interested in the Grand Californian

[@BillEricPhotography]

Hi, sometimes they have inventory in all of the resort's. The salesman is going to want to sell you whatever is the newest one but if you tell them that's the one you want and you're not willing to settle for anything else they may have something for you. Or you may have to wait. But they usually sell the newest resorts first.

[@Tom_the_Lawyer]

Did John Heard from Home Alone come back as the guy on the left?

[@BillEricPhotography]

Yes!

[@Tom_the_Lawyer]

Disney Image Makers jokes aside - really loved this video! Really helpful as I consider DVC. Please make more!

[@BillEricPhotography]

Thanks! I think we can do a follow up in the future. Happy to help, let us know if you have any questions!

[@learvacated]

Great vlog guys. Really helpful.

[@BillEricPhotography]

Thanks! Happy to help!

[@stevedonofriojr5050]

thanks guys! great help! great video!

[@BillEricPhotography]

Thanks for watching, happy to help!

[@IvanMeetin]

Thanks a lot for such a detailed breakdown! I still have two questions. 1. Can you elaborate a little bit more on paperwork? What kind of papers do you sign, what is the legal form? 2. Since getting points annually is kind of a profit that you gain, do you have to pay taxes for that? As I assume you don't have to, otherwise you'd tell that. Why is that? ) Thanks!

[@BillEricPhotography]

there is definitely some paperwork to sign I don't remember exactly what it was but you are buying a piece of real estate. A small piece but you still have an ownership interest. I don't think you have to pay taxes but I do show my annual statement that I get to my accountant.

[@IvanMeetin]

@@BillEricPhotography thank you!

[@BillEricPhotography]

Happy to help!

[@scottnoble7306]

Great video guys, thanks for the information. We are looking to purchase a DVC. How soon after purchasing are your point available?

[@BillEricPhotography]

I believe immediately!

[@davinagould1451]

Best video explaining the DVC

[@BillEricPhotography]

Thanks David!

[@shows4learning]

The only vacation club that has resaleable value. Not for me as its too hard to schedule with kids school... They only allow one vacation per year up to no more than 5 days :-(

[@BillEricPhotography]

Really, what about summer?

[@shows4learning]

@@BillEricPhotography Too hot for us 🥵

[@SyMoane75]

Thank you for the information. I'm still unsure but I'll talk with my husband and we'll decide then. I really think I want to do this.

[@BillEricPhotography]

Happy to help! Let us know if you have any questions 🙂

[@JustinDantonio1]

Hey guys, great video. I’ve watched it a couple of times now only because I really want to get a break down. I also look at it like a savings as well. We love Disney. You guys talked about how it’s not worth it to use for the points for the Disney Cruise Line. Is there a video you guys make explaining why? Only reason I ask is because that would be something I would love to do at some point. I just want to understand from your point of view why it wouldn’t be a good idea to use the points for that. Thanks guys!

[@BillEricPhotography]

Hi Justin, every point has a cash value and you need to use so many for the cruise that they are much more valuable and better used at the resorts. The whole structure of the Disney vacation club is bad when you use your points at the Disney vacation club resorts you get the most value. and because the cruise is basically an all-inclusive you would need to use so many points that it doesn't make it cost effective. I hope that makes sense. I bought the Disney vacation club so I could go to Walt Disney World more often stay in nicer resorts for less money. I think you might be better off paying cash for a cruise.

[@JustinDantonio1]

Disney Image Makers thank you so much for replying. The cruise wasn’t a make it or break it by any means. I thank you for clarifying that part only because we wanted to do a cruise by Disney because we love them. But like you said pay cash. We go do Disney often. Over three years we went 4 times. 4 people. Walt Disney is our favorite. I hope you make more videos like this for sure explaining and maybe even deep dive on were to get points for deals or where to stay. I’m dumb lol so sometimes I need to watch or have things explained twice or in great detail. Love the video and you got yourself a new subscriber!!!!!

[@J.Byronphillipsjr]

Would you still recommend joining DVC today in 2023?

[@BillEricPhotography]

I'm not sure. I think the value is there if you plan on going to Walt Disney World anyway and plan on staying in the nicer resorts. It's definitely gotten a lot more expensive from when I bought. Also don't forget to figure in the cost of tickets and food which can be a very large chunk of your vacation budget these days. Also travel. If I was looking to buy right now I don't think I would.

[@backdraft6290]

Great video! I know it matters which home resort I pick as far as availability but does it matter which month I buy DVC as far as availability? Like if early December is best for my family for a vacation every year should I make sure the contract points are for December?

[@BillEricPhotography]

I'm pretty sure that's where your user would come in. so if you like to go in December you would probably want a spring use here so your points are available early in the year I travel in the summer usually and have an October use year and that's worked out for me. Bill

[@angelad8841]

Is it still worth it if it's twice as much? Copper creek is $188 a point now.

[@BillEricPhotography]

I would look on the resale market. The prices are getting very expensive. If you plan to go often it's still cheaper than paying for the same room cash. Bill

[@angelad8841]

Thank you

[@margaritadiver]

It's like buying a stock. It's always cheaper in the past but always goes up. We have 320 point in Aulani and 275 point in copper Creek. No regrets. Over time and bring a Disney fan, it's the way to go. There are some really cool things to do if you buy enough points.

[@BillEricPhotography]

Great point, you are so right!

[@calebcompton1538]

What do points give u? I just don't understand. You explain paying for points but what does it give u for a point.

[@BillEricPhotography]

Disney assigns a point value to each Resort room. Depending on the time of year and the size of the room you reserve you will have to use the amount of points that you have purchased. One week the studio accommodation is around 160 points. If you paid $100 per point when you bought into the DVC it would have cost you $16,000 to get a hundred and sixty points. But depending on the resort you will get 160 points to use each year for up to 47 years.

[@RoJoDisTendo]

This is all great info, if you don't mind I have a question. For the one of you that has been a member for 11 years now. Points you bought VS points it now costs in 2019 to stay at a resort: do you still have enough from your original point buy in? Or did you have to add more points and refinance your plan? (If thats even possible?) I'm afraid of inflation and my points I'm buying now, not being enough in the future and that I'll always be on a payment plan for this and stuck forever.

[@BillEricPhotography]

Great question! One of the great things about the DVC is that the points are inflation-proof. So if a weeklong stay this year costs 150 points, a weeklong stay 30 years from now will still cost 150 points (approximately).

[@RoJoDisTendo]

@@BillEricPhotography Awesome! Thank you for the quick response!

[@BillEricPhotography]

👍

[@samanthatansley]

Thank you for the information!

[@BillEricPhotography]

Thanks for watching!😊

[@twilightprincess9170]

I have a question, my family and I typically go to Disney World every two years, do you think at that rate would the AVC be worth it? Loved the video! ❤️

[@BillEricPhotography]

If you are going to be staying at a deluxe or moderate resort, and/or is you need more room than a typical studio, then probably yes.

[@twilightprincess9170]

Disney Image Makers Thank you! That's very helpful!

[@kanicksol]

Hello guys, I’ve watch this video like 20 times, it was really helpful, iI am on the process of closing our contract at CC, we mostly vacation on July, second option would be April or beginning of Dec but our priority would be July. What would be our best use year,?? I

[@BillEricPhotography]

Hi, I'm actually not sure. My usual year is in October and it's never really affected me much. The problem is when you start to borrow points from the following year and then you run out. Then you have to wait for you're use year date before you get your new points to book anyting. So you might want to make sure you're use year is just before the 11 months that you want to travel. Bill

[@kanicksol]

Disney Image Makers thank you Bill

[@JuanRodriguez-ge5rv]

If you occasionally vacation in April, you may want to go with an April Use Year. Since April is at the height of spring break you'll really need to have that 11 month window available and also would allow you to occasionally borrow from the following year if you need to. The problem you'll run into is that if you say choose a June use year (there's no July), and you book a trip for April, utilizing the current Use Year Points, you will only have until June 1st to book the points for another day before they expire. You can't bank less than 4 months prior to expiration, so the points end up lost.

[@krish0588]

Hey! LI! I wonder if this is a sign that I should get get a dvc lol This the second random Disney video I watched with people from LI this weekend 😊☺️. Thank You for the information!

[@BillEricPhotography]

You’re welcome! Definitely no regrets! And the flights from MacArthur are the best!

[@krish0588]

Disney Image Makers Does the DVC include meal plans? I have a lot of Qs, but I don’t remember them all at the moment.

[@BillEricPhotography]

No meal plan is not included. You can add it.

[@pixie1310]

This was helpful for me. I will not be getting a membership. Thank you guys!!

[@BillEricPhotography]

Happy to help!

[@PastorSethHinrichs]

Great video, guys! I amsl am a photographer and a huge Disney fan and just returned from a fantastic Disney World vacation with my kids. I am very interested in joining DVC, but my kids are older (18, 16, and 14). Do you still think it's worth it if you don't have young kids?

[@BillEricPhotography]

Thanks Seth! I think it really depends on how much you're going to be going to Disney World. If you're still going to go once or twice a year I think it might still be worth it. It's definitely a lot more expensive than when we both bought in. You really need to run the numbers and compare them to where you would normally stay if you were paying cash and see if it makes sense for you.

[@edwinthemoose]

Question can you have 400 points at one time if you get 200 points a year so if you wanted to get rooms for another non dvc family or can you only have 200 points at a time

[@BillEricPhotography]

You can buy as many points as you want. Each year you will be allocated those points. So if you buy 400 points, you will be able to use 400 points per year for as many rooms or stays or families you want.

[@BillEricPhotography]

Also you can bank and borrow your points. So if you had 200 points you could Bank the year before and borrow from the following year and be able to make a reservation for 600 points.

[@jonathanm1234]

What are your thoughts on the new Riviera? I am considering buying. You have great videos. Just came across your channel. I am wondering if the fact that resale is restricted to only using points at Riviera if that is a big negative that would sway you to not recommend me buying or if that is not a big factor. Not planning on buying to sell later but you never know if a hardship might come up or something. What if I go every other year. Do you think it is still worth it?

[@BillEricPhotography]

We haven’t seen the new Riviera yet but heard great things about it. It’s really hard to say whether or not you should buy because there’s so many factors involved, especially if you go to WDW every other year. If it was every year or multiple times per year I would say yes definitely. It really depends on how much you would be spending on that trip vs how much the points are costing you.

[@jonathanm1234]

Disney Image Makers thank you for your quick reply and advice. You mention in the video about sharing a calculator. Can you share with me [e-mail]

[@BillEricPhotography]

I think you can just Google dvc points calculator.

[@catshepherd3102]

Would it be worth it to buy a membership if you’re an older person with no kids?

[@BillEricPhotography]

It depends on how often you visit. If you’re going to Disney World at least once a year, it is probably still worth it. You will save more in the long run.

[@mahemphill93]

I’m super analytical too! Do you guys a an online calculator or anything?

[@BillEricPhotography]

No, I just have an excel spreadsheet that I keep that tracks my costs and points usage. Maybe I can figure out a way to set up a template and share that.

[@loribrown5953]

Do you think the DVC would be worth it for a Florida resident?

[@BillEricPhotography]

That tough part about using DVC for a Florida resident is that you can’t be really spontaneous when using your points You normally have to plan your trips way in advance.

[@loribrown5953]

That wouldn’t be a problem. I was just wondering if Florida residence get special pricing as well that would off set the DVC. Thank you for the info. Very helpful. 😊

[@lostraysilverlight7255]

Hey folks, what no one told me is that DVC is first come first serve. I just purchased dvc in January, I tried using my points and there were only 9 days left in the whole year available to book. One day in one month a couple in another, that’s it. The free extra events sell out. They send invites to the events to ppl that have reservations in a resort first then other people. And just because you book during an event doesn’t guarantee being able to attend. The small rooms book out first so anyone on the 100-200 point plan can really have a hard time staying multiple days because the small rooms are gone and you upgrade to a larger room costing more points. For me, I feel cheated. It’s crazy. I feel lied to.

[@BillEricPhotography]

DVC is definitely a plan-in-advance system. Like we mentioned in the video, you have an advantage with your home resort in that you can book it 11 months ahead, and you can wait-list the other resorts 7 months in advance. Like we also mentioned in the video DVC is not for locals or the spontaneous traveler, managing your points is a process that takes some getting used to. The best thing for you to do now is bank your current points for next year and start planning a trip when you get to 11 months out.

[@JuanRodriguez-ge5rv]

You bought in January and there was only 9 days left in the whole year. I'm sorry but I Call BS. That's simply not true. We stayed at Boardwalk Villas in a 1BR in March and when I checked in Jan, there was still studios available because I had some family that might have wanted to come. In March, we booked a trip to Animal Kingdom for a few days then in August Saratoga Springs for a week. Yet you're saying that in JANUARY there was only 9 days left the whole year.... Yeah, I call BS.

[@dg-hk2vc]

What about park tickets? Anything included? Or lodging only?

[@dg-hk2vc]

Just got back. Paid $6k for 10 days at Caribbean beach. Dining plan...8 days Park hopper plus tickets. So if i did that same trip each year would i save money?

[@BillEricPhotography]

If you did it every year you would be staying at a deluxe Resort instead of a moderate and you would be saving money on your lodging only. Plus if you went every year you could buy annual passes with a DVC discount.

[@dg-hk2vc]

@@BillEricPhotography so thats $20k plus $1k/yr for maintenance fees plus $3800 for 4 annual passes and no dining plan? Yeesh!

[@BillEricPhotography]

Yup it sounds like a lot. But after that initial $20k it’s only the annual maintenance, and you’ll be staying in deluxe rooms.

[@chrisjortiz]

What's the biggest cons to DVC?

[@BillEricPhotography]

The biggest reason not to buy DVC would be if you’re not going to use all your points. Point management is easy once you get used to it but it can be complicated and you don’t want to end up with any unused points. So if you are planning to spend vacation dollars in Disney World then there really is no downside. You will save money in the long run and you will have a better vacation experience. And if you want to get out of DVC in the future you can sell your points.

[@chrisjortiz]

@@BillEricPhotography Thanks. Think we're three months into the six months of researching if its a good fit for us.

[@jonathanm1234]

What are your thoughts on the new Riviera? I am considering buying. You have great videos. Just came across your channel. I am wondering if the fact that resale is restricted to only using points at Riviera if that is a big negative that would sway you to not recommend me buying or if that is not a big factor. Not planning on buying to sell later but you never know if a hardship might come up or something. What if I go every other year. Do you think it is still worth it?

[@CoasterBrain]

Is DVC a TIMESHARE.?

[@BillEricPhotography]

Basically yes. It’s Disney’s version of a timeshare. You buy points and use them however you like.

[@michelleluna4278]

Thank you for the great info!! Have considered thus since I’ve been going every year the past several years. I’m going in September and wanted to take the DVC tour. Any chance they will let us stay at a DVC resort instead of where we booked? Just wondering if I should do this at the beginning or end of the trip.

[@BillEricPhotography]

You can make reservations at the DVC resorts but at the regular rates. Definitely take the tour first and visit the different properties.

[@michelleluna4278]

Disney Image Makers we already have our reservation... was just wondering if there is any likelihood “upgrading” us to a DVC property as an insensitive and/or welcome to DVC is a possibility. 😊

[@BillEricPhotography]

Probably a long shot but it doesn’t hurt to ask 😄

[@michelleluna4278]

I’m sure there is enough demand that they have little need to incise prospects😊

[@larrylewis1099]

How old is too old to buy in? I will be 72 next month.

[@BillEricPhotography]

Never too old! You’re basically buying property (like a .0000001% share) and you can leave it to your children (or favorite KZbinr 😄) when you’re gone.

[@auroranite]

Disney won’t let you borrow out more than a year because they know you will $pend money every visit, too long time away. I think the escalating yearly fees are a negative that offset your “value” room costs. Only angle this time share really gives is a insider advantage to reserve home resort over non DVC customers. But it comes at a cost. A week vaca for you points isn’t really a bargain. If your happy thats really all that matters.

[@BillEricPhotography]

True if you’re happy that’s all that matters. But if you are visiting every year or twice a year you are definitely saving money.

[@JuanRodriguez-ge5rv]

The year before I bought DVC, I stayed at Saratoga Springs in a 1BR Villa checking in on Sunday and checking out Friday Morning, basically 5 nights. (Friday and Saturday nights are the most expensive). Since buying my Vero Beach contract, I've stayed an average of 10 nights a year and never once in the past 5 years paid more per year in Maintenance than what I paid for that ONE 5 night stay at Saratoga Springs. Here's the kicker, Maintenance fees at Vero Beach resort are the absolute highest out of ANY DVC, yet I still saved a ton of money.

[@loribrown5953]

Thank you for all this information. I have always wondered what you get. Aren’t they building a new DVC at the Caribbean Beach?

[@BillEricPhotography]

Hi Lori, yes they are and there's going to be a aerial tram stop right in front of it from what I understand.

[@loribrown5953]

Disney Image Makers Yes there is. I need to talk to my hubby. I would love for that resort to be our home resort.

[@BillEricPhotography]

Looks like a great spot to own at!

[@loribrown5953]

Disney Image Makers What happens when your years are up?

[@BillEricPhotography]

The points go back into the inventory to be sold again.

[@mikeparker3199]

Can I buy a point at a time! To build them over time?

[@BillEricPhotography]

I think there is a minimum that you have to buy.

[@julialoehlein9778]

Dvc member at GF. Just got back yesterday from a trip in a 2 bedroom villa and it was amazing! We love staying in at least a 1 bedroom so we can cook and do laundry.

[@BillEricPhotography]

If you ask my wife, she would say the washer and dryer are her favorite things about staying DVC! Sounds like you had an amazing trip. I haven't stayed at the Grand Floridian yet, hoping to soon. Bill

[@julialoehlein9778]

@@BillEricPhotography it's amazing. We bring most of our food and eat in the room. Saves tons of money. Our magic band bill was $108 for 5 days

[@BillEricPhotography]

That's pretty impressive! We find it very hard to resist all of the treats sprinkled around throughout the parks!

[@julialoehlein9778]

@@BillEricPhotography we got a few dole whips, Mickey bars and chocolate at the ganachery, but that was about it. We make food before we go and bring it frozen then get fresh stuff at a local grocery store and we are set for the week.

[@BillEricPhotography]

that's definitely a great way to save some money. I'm going to Fort Wilderness for the first time in an RV next summer and I plan on doing the same thing.

[@jbwise2002]

Cost of points has outpaced inflation for 2 decades, is it still a good deal? Did people miss the window?

[@BillEricPhotography]

It’s still a good deal, but you’re right the cost has increased significantly recently. May be a good idea to wait a while and see where the prices go.

[@margaritadiver]

You will have people ask these same questions in 10 years.

[@BillEricPhotography]

I’m sure

[@kawairey]

Why do none of these videos talk about how much Disney dues will be in the latter part of the agreement so like the 45th to 50th year? That’s where the pinch really begins

[@BillEricPhotography]

Our dues have gone up a little bit every year. Still not too bad though.

[@kawairey]

@@BillEricPhotography hey guys. I wasnt being negative and still not, however have you calculated how much the dues would be if they increased on average 5% every year? And also, none of the DVC owners videos mention this fact when talking about this. I just find it extremely strange. Really enjoyed your video however.

[@BillEricPhotography]

The increases are minimal and capped every year. So yes the dues will increase but the rate at which they increase is in line with the value of any investment and still below the rate of increase of the regular room rates. So basically it’s a non-factor and therefore it would only add confusion to include it in the discussion.

[@atropos0754]

Nice video👍

[@BillEricPhotography]

Thanks!

[@samplautz5586]

A family of four and 2 bathrooms is huge? Try having a family of six and never having a house or hotel room with more than 1 bathroom. If we did it you can too

[@bonsaikiss]

But why would you go to Disney twice a year?? That’s too often. I would be sick of it

[@BillEricPhotography]

Everyone is different. We enjoy it as much as we can.

[@bonsaikiss]

Disney Image Makers for that price I would have bought a property in Orlando and that would have been an investment. This is a waste of money. Seriously though, go 2x a year for 10 years and you’ll be over it

[@BillEricPhotography]

Sometimes we go 3x a year. Sometimes more.

[@poisonedcookie7845]

There are 12 theme parks world wide, water parks, a lot of resorts that have fun things to do etc. And Disney changes a lot and fast, theres always something new or different you can do.

[@BillEricPhotography]

Great points Cookie!

[@JamesOrlowski]

So, after you drop $20K+, and pay ~$90/mo, you can't even start using your vacation until nearly 1 year? That. Is. Crazy.

[@BillEricPhotography]

Not really, we booked our first trip immediately after joining and they gave us another year's worth of points as an incentive so that first year we actually traveled three times down to Walt Disney World each time for a week. Bill

[@JamesOrlowski]

@@BillEricPhotography But about you booking your trip immediately, was that an exception and not the general rule?

[@BillEricPhotography]

As soon as you own points you can book a trip. Availability is another issue but if you're traveling at a not busy time you can usually find a room without too much trouble It may not be the exact resort you want but you can find something usually.

[@ohboy2592]

Never take the gift card or perk to give up housekeeping. Disney is doing this to cut housekeeping jobs and those that take the perk is costing someone a job.

[@BillEricPhotography]

You are right!

[@marcsarfati3291]

Do not do this. 1) I am happy the deal works for you. But. 14:00 mark. Your math is wrong Invest the 16k @ 6% = yearly $900. Opportunity cost. Out pocket of on 3k room 210O You Paid HOA fee of 1800 the room 3K room Your saving is not 1200 but 300.00 per year. Then minus 16k buy in that is 320$ per year cost. So you are losing 20$ per year not including inflation for 16k.

[@andrewj1878]

Marc Sarfati I believe your mistaken. You pay all 20k up front for 200 points (when he did at least). Comes out to 100 per point. If he bought in at day 1 then he gets the 200 points per year for 50 years so that’s 10000 points. 20k for 10k points comes out to 2$ a point or 400$ per year plus maintenance probably 1.5k so about 2000 per year. Depending on where you stay determines your savings but all room now that are DVC are gonna add up to over 2k if u use 200 points. You can check the online for yourself. I see where your coming from a perspective that’s trying to make money but if you plan on going to Disney exclusively then u save money.

[@BillEricPhotography]

Both good points thanks. Also factor in the fact that your point cost is locked in when you buy, while the actual cost of staying in a room keeps increasing every year. That should counter any opportunity cost. And yes Andrew is right that you’re investing in Disney vacations. If you look at it that way, you’re saving money.

[@davidtownsend386]

I can allow to choose Animal kingdom lodge with my new Disney collection to The family is powerful Iguanodon means lizard tooth and a hero and Disney lover and his name is Aladar The Iguanodon a perfect size Adventure and love and loyalty and compassionate and kind and cheerful attitude towards this world of Disney and new fans to have amazing times and happiness to hang out with mr Iguanodon he sounds amazing and fantastic job

[@BillEricPhotography]

Animal Kingdom Lodge is a great resort, even better if you are an animal lover!

[@Brittany.Anderson]

I have come realize that Disney Vacation Club is not really worth it.

[@BillEricPhotography]

It’s not for everyone

[@northrendicecrown631]

Way too complicated just get to the meat in the bones of the situation

[@BillEricPhotography]

It's a complicated subject and we wanted to give a really good overview. Plenty of people have no idea how the DBC works and we've been using it for years so we wanted to give as much information as possible.