How To Maximize Your DVC Points

[@patriciawhipple4075]

I wish i meet you sooner on youtube i lost 20 points last year i lost 7 family members last year and my cousin that i was very close to passed in July my banking month and i just forgot to bank them. thank you for being so helpful

[@kellyneagan]

Jen, I just love how genuine you are. Thank you for your knowledge, but also thank you for being your genuine self. I really appreciate that your joy comes through in these videos.

[@JenLefforge]

thank you so much, Kellyn! I have a sign in my office that says "choose authenticity over comfort" and I kind of live by that so it means a lot.

[@brenthulst5413]

Jenn, it's Jennifer. We are not DVC members, but when I win the lotto, that I never play, we will be!! Lol! But we are planning on meeting my sister in law at WDW in May and will just be missing you. We are planning on getting there May 7th-11. Now we make things economical for our family by camping in our pop-up. That is our money saving trick for hotel stays. Then we have a big breakfast, get a whole loaf of bread, fill the bread bag with PB&J sandwiches, and then get a locker with other snacks like fruits/chips. We have to go on the super cheap but when we hit that lotto, we will treat the whole extended family to those deluxe hotels, lol.

[@sherip1593]

I usually go to the WDW website and “book” a trip to get the price to keep track of how much I am saving. It factors in sales tax, etc. I also factor in if we drive how much we save in parking by owning DVC. It can really add up.

[@annemarie2921]

WDW was our “lake house” as our family was growing up and most times our adult children and their significant others still join us. But my husband and I are looking to future trips into our retirement years. DVC is our guaranteed Disney World vacation every year moving forward. It fits perfectly into our future retirement budget and proves, you’re never to old to purchase DVC. Such a helpful video!

[@saracooks2040]

I found your channel a few years ago when researching DVC. We made the “personal investment” to have guaranteed vacations in 2018 and have not regretted anything. Only problem is I may end up getting more points because we started going even more!

[@dinasmith8277]

Hi --- I just want to tell you how much I love your videos. Ive been binging them on my you tube on my TV so wasn't able to comment each time, but trying to go back now and like all of them and tell you how much Ive enjoyed them. Im also a DVC member (we bought in 2006 when my boys were 3 and 6---they are now both in college). I love this video--- ive never thought about doing the night before on cash to maximize the points. This is awesome. Love this! Thank you!!!!

[@dinasmith8277]

I don't know why my last line just got crossed out....

[@Benasboysandgirl]

Very good tips on point stretching! We bought Saratoga resale in 2014. We typically go for 8 nights in January every other year in a 2 bedroom (we have 5 kids). One strategy we use is to split stay, spending the first half which includes a weekend at Saratoga or Old Key West which are very point friendly and then spend the remaining 4 weeknights at a more point expensive property, like Bay Lake Tower theme park view. For January 22 we have all nights reserved at Saratoga and we are wait listed for the second half at Boardwalk. I’m really hoping that comes through! While there are no guarantees, if we were to sell our contract now, the price per point has gone up so much that we would get all of our buy in costs back as well as a bunch of years worth of maintenance. I would never say that’s a reason to buy into DVC but if one is trying to convince a reluctant partner it’s a good thing to know and there are great resources out there on this.

[@matthewstafford2766]

Hi Jen, We purchased at Animal Kingdom Kidani Village in 2008 at $100 a point and we have not regretted it at all. In fact as our family is in the same stage as yours I am thinking about purchasing more points from DVCResale because of your recommendations. I discovered your channel last year when I was planning our vacation and have really enjoyed your tidbits of wisdom that you share. Keep up the great work!

[@nicoletwisk5122]

Tax and parking are huge expenses as well. Plus what you can save in food costs and laundry. That's why I bought in as well. I am staying at Copper Creek for Christmas (11 nights in a 2 BR cabin and the 2BR villa) and I would have paid Disney over a 1/3 what I paid for my 300 points on the resale market. It was a no brainer for me. Especially since Copper Creek expires in 2067.

[@dawnturpin]

I LOVE doing all the DVC maths!!

[@kelseybentley13]

I always love to see how other people use their points. I also never understand how people manage to let points expire (pre-Covid of course). I feel like I’m always needing more points!

[@JenLefforge]

Yes same but it’s amazing how many people lose track or buy DVC and really don’t understand how to use it! I hear from them almost every day and I try to be gracious but yeah it’s surprising to me too.😬

[@craig7597]

I am just now watching your videos. Only been a subscriber a short time. You are such a breath of fresh air from all the other Disney bloggers. I love your channel. Just so natural and refreshing and I totally identify with your level of Disney (does that make sense?). Anyway, thanks for the vlogs.

[@amyknee7511]

Thanks! We're plugging away at saving for our first contract. We're thinking 250 points at Old Key West or Animal Kingdom Lodge. Hoping to get to our $ goal by 2022!

[@JenLefforge]

Amy (and you may know this already) but those were my two choices as well. We ended up at OKW because Scott likes it better, but I could have been VERY happy with either choice. Happy savings! I like having a big goal like that - keeps me from spending money on stupid things!

[@AbbyV1820]

OKW and AKL are both fantastic resorts. Our home base is 1st Beach Club which has the best location and 2nd Saratoga which we don't really like at all. The one thing to keep in mind with points and resorts are the annual dues.

[@ilsehunt6338]

When I worked we came in January for 10 days and 13 nights in September and always flew on Saturday so always stayed on hotel boulevard so we could walk to Saratoga springs to save points ! We are from the uk ! Good vlog

[@disneyisourcure4348]

Awesome video Jen! Thank you for sharing, this was so helpful!

[@chrisogando]

Liked the video before I was even a few minutes in. Watching your videos always makes me feel so whole. Thank you for providing a smile, Jen! Loved the breakdown. We bought at the end of December 2020 and have already received so much value. Your videos inspired us. Be well xx

[@JenLefforge]

Chris WELCOME HOME! That's wonderful! And thank you so much for you incredibly kind words - it means a lot to me!❤️

[@debbiehartlett472]

We owned DVC since 1997! Would have never vacationed when we were putting our kids through college without it!

[@JenLefforge]

I have two of the three through. I feel this. 😳❤️

[@kellynelson4545]

Love how you determined savings. I could never figure out a break even time frame. Thanks for the help.

[@JenLefforge]

Of course, Kelly! I'm being fairly conservative because I didn't account for hotel prices going up but since dues ALSO go up every year, it works without adding either factor if that makes sense. Happy math!

[@madisonsamples8237]

Not DVC (yet) but, I still like soaking up all the info until we are ready to buy in with cash! 🙂 This video was great!

[@larryminutella7899]

Thank you SO MUCH for your DVC videos!!!!! Because of you I was able to become a DVC member.

[@JenLefforge]

How lovely, Larry! Welcome home and congratulations!

[@sabrinacarter6719]

Jen, I bought DVC because of the way you explained "value." It means something different to everyone. The time it's given me with my family has been priceless. PS. Please check a pulse on that frog in the background.

[@JenLefforge]

Yes the frog wasn’t having his best day.😂😂😂

[@darlenec5262]

Love your videos! We are considering DVC & your videos are so informative! Thank you so much Jen! 💖

[@JenLefforge]

My pleasure, Darlene! Thanks for watching!

[@kristensmith80]

Thanks for the great tips! I appreciate you talking about the fact that the way you use your points is changing as your kids are flying the coup. Considering how long these contracts are, it’s really good to think ahead.

[@JenLefforge]

It's so important to think about!! I think a lot of families buy when the kids are young and them growing up and leaving seems forever away but it goes in the blink of an eye!

[@kristensmith80]

@@JenLefforge I'm feeling that already as my oldest is 16 and our vacations together as a family of 7 are numbered. It makes me regret not buying sooner! BUT we waited until we could afford it, so maybe I don't really regret waiting! He'll just get to bring his wife and kids with us someday!

[@owencarey606]

I'd call it an investment!! After breaking even on the contract, getting rooms that cost 3K+ in exchange for points that you've already broken even on seems like getting money back (if not money, then free rooms!)

[@melindayoung369]

You have taken the time to REALLY break it down-THANK YOU! We knew that in the long run, we would save $$$, but this helps spell it out. We are of a similar mindset…we like the deluxe resorts and that’s what we want to experience. Awesome job and thanks again!

[@JenLefforge]

Melinda when I started my channel it was partly because I couldn’t find any videos that broke it down in a way that made sense to me. So this comment means a lot to me! Thank you!

[@Londondarbs]

We just become DVC members! Our home resort is the riviera and we’re staying there this October!!

[@JenLefforge]

Congratulations and Welcome Home!

[@jenniferrundle6870]

That is a DREAMY resort!

[@matthewvanek2384]

Thank you Jen this is great! I love the idea of a Sunday-Thursday stay to maximize points

[@d.a.ballou9740]

I have to agree with Jamie Kernc's comment below: I just enjoy your videos, especially the ones about DVC. As you may remember, I'm still not convinced on the math and the "saving money" part, but as long as you keep making these videos and discussing this subject I'm going to keep watching (and maybe learning!). Also, I think you could probably do seminars about this subject as a side business (in case you're looking for another job! ;) ) I would love to meet and have a live discussion with you sometime about DVC. I think I would really enjoy that, you might not, but I would. lol

[@JenLefforge]

LOL Thanks, D.A.! I'm honored!

[@vanessagarza4139]

Thanks Jen! This is exactly what I was looking for!

[@JenLefforge]

Oh hurray!! I’m so glad, Vanessa!

[@annellis8412]

DVC can be a bit confusing. Thank you for explaining everything so clearly and honestly. I love your videos!

[@JenLefforge]

That’s always my goal! Thank you so much!

[@TheGoofy1932]

Love your videos. So informative and I just love your positivity.

[@JenLefforge]

What a nice comment, Heather, THANK YOU!

[@sp-d6465]

Thanks Jen!! I’ve sent this to my hubby as I’m sure it’ll convince him on the DVC!!! 🤣🤣🤣🥰🥰

[@dianawarburton7807]

I am so excited that we will also be in Disney May 1-8. I hope to see you and I will for sure say Hi!

[@Tiffany.132]

Will probably never buy DVC, but for some reason I love these videos! Haha

[@JenLefforge]

Well I’m happy then!! Thanks, Tiffany!

[@chevonnewallace8370]

Oh how I love DVC content!

[@lisasproul8027]

Very good video! You really do have to stay on top of your points!

[@JenLefforge]

It can be complicated right, Lisa? I feel like, especially in the beginning, it was super confusing!

[@ginafriebel2568]

Another great video. This was a great idea for a topic!!

[@karioncastles7988]

Another fun one! I love hearing how others use their points! We’re just getting started using ours. I wonder if it will be enough, ha! Thanks for the great info.

[@JenLefforge]

Basically it's never enough so we just pay cash for additional stays - and then we can enjoy non-DVC resorts, too! 🤣❤️😂

[@Borgkn]

Oh my gosh! My husband and I were having this exact conversation regarding “value” of the DVC, posting the question: invest in a vacation home within 10 min of WDW or have a DVC account - about 24 hours ago! For the record: I vote for both, does that make sense? Probably not. 👑 So sad I just realized you published this video but timely 💯 still! Thank you!

[@Borgkn]

@@corathorne4508 exactly! That’s why it is hard to compare! What do you think?

[@melissadonais6688]

We bought a vacation condo off World Drive-- one mile from the Welcome to Disney sign. Honestly it was in the ballpark of what we would have spent on DVC. Gated community. We furnished it with Disney resort furniture that we bought at the Lakeland Antique Mall and Forever Vintage. It is truly MAGICAL. It is all ours. We are five minutes away from Epcot. I have no idea why more people don't do this. It is not only a personal investment but a financial investment. I can rent it out if I want or need to. I feel like we stumbled upon the biggest Disney hack that no one else knows about.

[@katielou16]

We are staying at AKL in a savanna room in December and taking my parents- AKL has always been on my dad's bucket list. He gave us kind of a hard time when we first bought DVC and so I did the math for a rack rate room for a 2 bedroom savanna view room and it was over 14k for the week. 🤯🤯🤯 That's honestly the best part of booking DVC rooms- looking to see how much it would cost paying cash. 😂😂

[@JenLefforge]

Seriously I do it every time!

[@atropos0754]

Great information Jen😀👍🏼

[@JenLefforge]

Thanks so much!

[@tannerclark4019]

Great job breaking this all down Jen ~ thank you!

[@JenLefforge]

My pleasure, Tanner! Thanks for watching!

[@majorhollingshead5906]

Great points as usual. ❤️😘

[@JenLefforge]

Thank you so much, Major!

[@jamiekernc9925]

Ha! I'm category 3, not DVC, not going to purchase, but a timeshare owner ;) I just enjoy your videos!

[@JenLefforge]

Thanks, Jamie!

[@ruthg7524]

Not purchasing DVC any time soon but if I ever win the lottery I want to make sure I am ready and well informed! (:

[@JenLefforge]

That’s smart! And you never know - when we first started looking into it I didn’t think we would ever be able to do it.

[@kimhahn6220]

That really helped me. It made sense to me! 😊

[@JenLefforge]

Oh good, Kim!! I'm so glad!! Thanks for watching!

[@madisona7140]

I’ve been looking forward to this video! Thank you for sharing Jen!!❤️ great info!!

[@JenLefforge]

I’m so glad you liked it, Madison!

[@markkoeppel7932]

I just want to get to go to Disney as much as possible

[@JenLefforge]

I get this!

[@tinas4946]

We bought into DVC way back in mid-2000s so our initial investment is super low. Under $100 per point. I think we got one set at $85 a point and the other set at $95 a point. Amazing how inflation works. Definitely a great way to save on Disney vacations. We are totally spoiled by the space and washer/dryer in the unit (and the kitchen -especially when the kids were younger). It also forced us to vacation as well.

[@JenLefforge]

Such a great point - I LOVE that it's forced us to vacation even during lean times!

[@phsrocsktar07]

Thanks Jen!

[@JenLefforge]

My pleasure! Thanks for watching!

[@nicolegroves6080]

Are those velvet ears?

[@JenLefforge]

No, they're quilted! From shopbbbrooke.com

[@nicolegroves6080]

@@JenLefforge they are beautiful 🤩

[@ThatOldSWDude]

I have a question, not sure if I heard this in the video and just missed it, but what would the point totals be for the vacations individually?

[@JenLefforge]

179 points for the 6 nights in January at BWV and 67 points (I think that's right) for 6 nights in the studio at OKW in May

[@michiedobrowolski488]

Does anyone know if the Friday and Saturday price surge applies to Aulani too I was looking in to renting points for that?

[@allisondelong6182]

Jen, thanks for this! Kind of hoping i can convince my husband to do DVC. can you allow others to use your points without being there yourself? For example, could I let my son and his new wife go without me?

[@JenLefforge]

Absolutely! As long as you make the reservation anyone can use your points!

[@jenniferrundle6870]

Show your hubby the video Jen did on having the "meeting of the minds" on buying with her hubby!😆

[@allisondelong6182]

@@jenniferrundle6870 I’ve told him about that video. I think he’s almost ready! I appreciate Jen’s approach on that!

[@allisondelong6182]

@@JenLefforge thank you!!

[@trishsp3160]

Wish the numbers worked for my family and how we vacation, but right now, it just doesn't.

[@JenLefforge]

It absolutely DOESN'T work for everyone and many people won't save any money at all. But going to Disney can still happen for just as many years! You're wise to understand your own families travel habits and preferences.

[@elainelecates6928]

Watching this while on the treadmill and tried to like it and hit the dislike by mistake!😂. I fixed! Learned my lesson of trying to exercise and watch at the same time!

[@mikedonley1287]

I think my brain just exploded

[@JenLefforge]

😂😂🤪

[@okbookgirl]

Kermit looks like he’s in pain LOL. Maybe it’s the thought of paying Rack Rate.

[@JenLefforge]

It's true. He gets SO upset.

[@vickiemendoza9252]

LOL =)

[@emilysolomon5977]

Hi! I fall into the category of “seriously considering DVC” :) I have a hard time with use year..just figuring out which to choose. Like you, I love to go in January. Since I would book 11 months out for my home resort.. would a February use year make the most sense? With your Dec use year, do you just wait until Feb to make your reservations for January? (If you were going to stay at your home resort) TIA! 😊😊

[@darlene6004]

If you go in January, it’s best for your use year to be December. The reason is that if you have to cancel your January trip, you have the rest of the year to reschedule and use your points before they expire! I hope that makes sense. PS. Your use year has nothing to do with the 11 month window. Just your home resort affects that. Home resort = can book 11 months out; all other resorts = 7 months out. :-)

[@emilysolomon5977]

@@darlene6004 Thank you for your response! That does make sense! 😊