DVC Home Resort: Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Budget-Friendly Option

Trying to choose your first DVC Home Resort whilst also staying within your budget?

You’re not alone. Many first-time buyers find themselves overwhelmed by the DVC Home Resort options and prices.

Just over a year ago, I was in the same position. I didn’t want to overspend, but I was so nervous about making a mistake and choosing the wrong home resort.

But now I can see that you don’t need to stress. Finding a budget-friendly DVC Home Resort is totally possible, and I’m here to guide you through it.

We’ll explore what makes each affordable resort so great, making sure you get the best deal without compromising on quality.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the info you need to make an informed, budget-friendly choice. And to help you find the best DVC Home Resort for you!

This post is all about your guide to finding the best DVC Home Resort to buy on a budget.

Choosing a DVC Home Resort on a Budget

What is a DVC Home Resort?

If you’re new to Disney Vacation Club, you might be wondering, “What exactly is a DVC Home Resort?”

Let me break it down for you.

A DVC Home Resort is essentially your home base within the Disney Vacation Club system.

When you buy into DVC, you are purchasing a real estate interest in a specific resort. This becomes your Home Resort.

Priority Booking Window

One of the biggest perks of having a DVC Home Resort is the priority booking window. Owners can book their stays up to 11 months in advance at their Home Resort, while only 7 months in advance for other DVC resorts.

The DVC Home Resort booking window is a huge benefit, especially if you have a favorite resort or if you plan to travel during peak seasons.

DVC Home Resort benefits — The Gingerbread Carousel at Disney’s Beach Club Resort at Christmas

Ownership and Points

When you buy a DVC Home Resort, you’re essentially buying ownership points.

These points can be used to book stays at your Home Resort or other DVC resorts.

The number of points needed changes depending on factors like the time of year, the type of room, and the length of stay.

It’s kind of like a currency you can use to book your magical Disney vacation each year.

Resort Variety and Flexibility

There are plenty of Home Resorts to choose from (though the Disney Vacation Club resorts you can choose from may vary depending on whether you buy a resale or direct contract—more on this later).

Most of the Disney Vacation Club Home Resort options are in Florida (all but one located at Walt Disney World).

There are also resorts in California (at Disneyland), Hawaii and Hilton Head.

Potential Financial Benefits

Buying into a DVC Home Resort can potentially be a smart financial move if you’re a frequent Disney visitor.

While the initial cost may seem high, you could save money in the long run on hotel stays.

I watched this video before becoming a DVC member, and it helped me to see how much I can save through Disney Vacation Club!

Plus, DVC memberships can be sold, offering flexibility if your circumstances change.

By understanding what a DVC Home Resort is and how it works, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision that fits your family’s needs and budget.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a DVC Home Resort

When picking a DVC Home Resort, you’ll want to focus on a few key factors that can make a big difference in your experience and budget. Let’s go through the main points to think about to ensure you make the smartest choice for your Disney adventures.

Initial Cost

The first thing most of us worry about is the initial cost. This is the price you pay upfront to purchase a DVC Home Resort contract.

Disney sells these contracts directly, or you can find them on the resale market. While buying directly from Disney might offer some perks, resale contracts can be significantly cheaper.

Prices vary depending on the resort, the number of points you purchase, and the current market conditions.

Prices can vary greatly, so it’s worth checking the current prices for direct and resale contracts.

But as a rough guide, you can often find resale DVC contracts in the $50+ ish per point range (for resorts not at Disney World/Disneyland) all the way up to $300 for the Grand Californian.

But for a lot of Disney World home resorts, you can find contracts in the $100 – $200 per point range.

Resale prices can often be 20% to 60%+ lower than buying directly from Disney. If you’re looking to save money, the resale market is often your best bet.

Just be sure to do your homework and understand any differences in the benefits offered between direct and resale purchases.

Annual Maintenance Fees

Another important factor to consider is annual maintenance fees.

These fees cover the upkeep of your DVC Home Resort, from cleaning services to general maintenance.

Each resort has different fees, so it’s essential to budget for these costs.

For example, some resorts might have lower initial purchase prices but higher annual fees.

Others might be pricier upfront but cheaper to maintain over time.

Always compare both the initial cost and the annual fees to get the full picture. It’s like buying a car: sometimes that low sticker price comes with higher maintenance costs down the road.

Here are the 2024 Annual Dues for the Disney Vacation Club Resorts.

Location and Accessibility

The location of your DVC Home Resort can make a massive difference in your Disney vacation experience. Think about where the resort is situated and how easy it is to get to your favorite parks and attractions.

Some resorts offer quick access to Magic Kingdom, while others might be closer to Epcot or Animal Kingdom.

Here’s a quick list of questions to consider:

How close is the resort to the parks you love?
Are there direct transportation options like monorails, boats, or the Skyliner? Do I mind staying at resorts with just/primarily buses?
Do I want a busier or more peaceful resort?

Consider these points carefully. Proximity to the parks can save you time and hassle, making your Disney trips even more magical.

Best Budget-Friendly DVC Home Resorts

When it comes to choosing a budget-friendly DVC Home Resort, you have some great options. These resorts offer a fantastic balance between cost and the magic of Disney. Here are a few of the best budget-friendly choices to consider.

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is one of the most cost-effective choices for a DVC Home Resort.

This resort transports you to upstate New York, with its charming horse-racing theme and stunning lakeside views.

So why is Saratoga Springs such a great deal? For starters:

Lower Point Cost: The number of points needed to book here is generally lower compared to other DVC resorts. This means you can stretch your points further, allowing for longer or more frequent stays.
Spacious Studios and Villas: This resort offers a variety of room types, from Deluxe Studios to Three-Bedroom Grand Villas and Treehouses! The larger options can be perfect for families or groups, giving you more bang for your buck.

dvc non home resort booking — A Standard Studio at Saratoga Springs

Expiration Date: Saratoga Springs contracts expire in 2054 – so you have three decades to enjoy this contract!
Lower Maintenance Fees: The annual dues at Old Key West are generally lower than other DVC resorts. This helps keep your overall costs down.
Low Initial Cost: This is one of the cheapest Home Resorts to buy initially – with resale prices averaging around $100 per point (at the time of this post).

If you love shopping, dining, and entertainment, the proximity to Disney Springs is a massive bonus.

You can walk or catch a boat over to enjoy everything from unique shops to incredible dining options.

And if you want to play golf, this is the resort for you!

For those looking to save even more, the resort often has availability (it is the largest DVC Resort), which means you can book last-minute trips without needing a ton of points.

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Disney’s Old Key West Resort is a hidden gem when it comes to budget-friendly options.

It was the first DVC resort ever built, and it still offers some of the best value you can find.

Its laid-back, tropical vibe makes it a relaxing retreat perfect for families.

Here’s why Old Key West stands out:

Generous Space: The rooms are some of the largest among Disney resorts, offering lots of room to spread out.Even the studios are spacious, making them ideal for longer stays.

best dvc home resort to buy — A Studio at Old Key West

Relaxing Atmosphere: The resort’s charming theme and beautiful landscaping make it a peaceful oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the parks.
Two Expiration Dates: This is the only DVC Resort with contracts that have two expiration dates: 2042 or 2057. If buying direct with Disney, you’ll get a contract with a 2057 expiration date. But, if you’re buying a resale contract, you can choose one with a 2042 or 2057 expiration date.
Affordable Initial Cost: Old Key West (2042 contracts) are the cheapest if you’re looking for a Home Resort at Disney World. Resale prices are averaging between $80 and $100 per point. However, if you find a 2057 resale contract, prices are around $100 – $125 per point.

One of the standout features of Old Key West is its relaxed atmosphere.

Imagine waking up to the serene view of golf courses and waterways—in other words, paradise!

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas

If you’re looking for a unique experience that offers excellent value, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas might be your best bet.

This resort immerses you in the wonders of Africa, complete with savanna views and exotic animals right outside your window (if you book a Savanna View Studio/Villa).

Why choose Animal Kingdom Villas? Here’s the scoop:

Unique Experience: Where else can you see 30 species of animals at your Disney hotel?! This one-of-a-kind experience doesn’t come with a sky-high price tag if it’s your Home Resort.
Great Amenities: From the impressive pool areas to the award-winning dining options like Sanaa, Animal Kingdom Villas offer plenty of perks.
Jambo House and Kidani Village: There are two different buildings you can stay at. Jambo House is the main and original building at Animal Kingdom Lodge – where the hotel side of the resort is also located.Kidani Village is the DVC building.

dvc home resort membership — Kidani Village

Value for Points: The resort often requires fewer points compared to other deluxe resorts, making it a fantastic way to enjoy luxury at a lower cost. At Jambo House, you can even choose from Value Studios and Villas (which arecheaper and smaller than the other Studios and Villas. Be aware that these are so well-priced that they can be difficult to book!).
Expiration Date: Contracts with an Animal Kingdom Villas Home Resort don’t expire until 2057!
Low Upfront Costs: At the time of writing this post, Animal Kingdom resale prices are usually between $105 – $125 per point.

Staying at Animal Kingdom Villas is like getting a mini-safari adventure as part of your Disney trip.

Plus, the on-site dining options provide a culinary journey that’s hard to match!

dvc home resort priority — Indian-style Bread Service at Sanaa

Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Lower Initial Cost: Boulder Ridge is one of the cheapest Home Resorts to buy at! Resale contracts are often between $90 and $115 per point (but your points don’t go quite as far here as the other resorts – you may want to check out the points chart).
Recently Refurbished Accommodations: Studio Villas, One-Bedroom Villas and Two-Bedroom Villas were recently renovated here – and they look awesome!

One-Bedroom Villa at Boulder Ridge

Expiration Date: The expiration date for contracts here is 2042 – which is positive if you’re not looking to commit for too many decades!
Boulder Ridge Villas is only a boat ride away from Magic Kingdom!

And if you’re planning on visiting during the Christmas season, Boulder Ridge is one of the best places to stay.

It is also one of the hardest resorts to book at this time of year – so DVC Home Resort priority is VERY important here!

Tips for Buying a Budget-Friendly DVC Home Resort

Navigating the world of Disney Vacation Club (DVC) can feel like a roller coaster, but with a few smart moves, you can find a budget-friendly DVC Home Resort that suits your needs perfectly. Here are some tips to ensure you snag a great deal without sacrificing any of the magic.

Consider Resale Market

When buying a DVC contract, don’t overlook the resale market. Purchasing through resale can offer significant savings compared to buying directly from Disney.

The benefits are clear:

Lower Prices: Resale contracts can be significantly cheaper. As I mentioned previously, discounts range from 20% to 60%+ off the original price.
Flexibility: The resale market often has a variety of options available, so you might find a contract that fits your preferred duration and point needs. Disney Vacation Club, one the other hand, actively sells a few properties at a time, and may not have as much inventory of the older DVC Resorts (which tend to be the more inexpensive choices).
Same Resorts, Lower Cost: You get the same resorts and amenities for a fraction of the price!

However, be sure to do your homework. Not all benefits are transferable with resale purchases—for instance, you may not be eligible for certain perks like the DVC Member Cruises and Lounges etc.

But if saving money is your top priority, the resale market is a goldmine.

Evaluate Contract Length

The length of the contract remaining can greatly impact the overall cost. DVC contracts have a set expiration date, typically 50 years from the resort’s opening date.

Here’s what to consider:

Remaining Years: Longer remaining contract life usually means higher prices but offers more years of vacation. If you want a super long contract length, some of these resorts – with 2042 expiration dates – may not be the best value for you – despite the lower initial cost.
Perks of Shorter Contracts: However, contracts with fewer years left can be much cheaper and still provide plenty of opportunities to enjoy Disney.
Financial Planning: Think about how long you’ll realistically use the contract. Do you think you’ll be going to Disney for a few more decades? A long contract probably makes sense. But you think you’ll be done with Disney by 2042? A short contract is possibly the way to go.

Always weigh how the remaining years align with your long-term vacation plans. A shorter, cheaper contract might be just what you need to enjoy affordable vacations for the next decade.

Monitor Market Trends

Stay informed about DVC market trends to make a well-timed purchase. Knowing when to buy can maximize your savings.

Keep these tips in mind:

Seasonal Trends: Prices can fluctuate based on demand. Off-seasons often offer better prices and more availability.
Economic Factors: Broader economic conditions can impact DVC prices. For example, economic downturns might see more contracts hit the resale market, lowering prices.
New DVC Updates: Keep an eye on news from Disney. Announcements of new resorts or expansions can affect the desirability and price of existing properties.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Choosing a budget-friendly DVC Home Resort can be an exciting journey, but it’s important to be aware of some common pitfalls that could impact your overall investment and vacation experience. Let’s explore a couple of these potential challenges so you can navigate them with confidence.

Underestimating Maintenance Fees

One of the most common mistakes people make when buying a DVC Home Resort is underestimating the impact of annual maintenance fees. These fees cover crucial aspects like housekeeping, resort upkeep, and resort staffing. While the initial purchase price might grab your attention, the ongoing maintenance fees can significantly affect your budget over time.

Annual Increases: It’s not unusual for maintenance fees to increase annually. Even a small percentage hike can add up over the years, potentially straining your finances.
Resort-Specific Fees: Each resort has different maintenance costs. For example, resorts at the beach (e.g. Vero Beach and Hilton Head) have higher maintenance costs as they are more expensive for Disney to run – so you (as the owner) get the bill!
Budget Planning: Failing to account for these fees can lead to financial surprises later on. Include these fees in your budget plan to avoid any nasty shocks down the line.

To manage this, research thoroughly before choosing your DVC Home Resort.

Compare the maintenance fees across different resorts and take note of their historical increases.

Always ask yourself how these fees fit into your long-term financial picture and if they’ll still be manageable down the road.

Overlooking Resort Restrictions

Another pitfall to watch out for is overlooking the specific restrictions or limitations that come with certain resorts. Not all DVC Home Resorts are created equal, and failing to understand this can limit your vacation options and even your overall enjoyment.

Booking Restrictions: Some resorts might have more stringent booking rules, limiting your flexibility. For example, high-demand resorts often require you to book as early as possible, which can be challenging if you prefer spontaneous trips.
Resale Restrictions: If you’re buying your DVC contract on the resale market, be aware that some benefits are restricted. Also, if you’re buying a resale contract at Riviera, The Villas at Disneyland Hotel or The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, you will ONLY EVER be able to use your points there.

disney vacation club home resort — Disney’s Riviera Resort

Limited Amenities: Different resorts offer varying amenities. Some might have fewer dining options or recreational activities compared to others. It’s crucial to know what your chosen resort offers and whether those amenities align with your vacation style.

To avoid these pitfalls, make sure you fully understand the terms of your contract. Read the fine print, and always feel free to ask questions before making your purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions About DVC Home Resorts

Choosing a budget-friendly DVC Home Resort might seem like a daunting task, but with the right information, it becomes much easier. To help ease your decision-making process, I’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about DVC Home Resorts.

What Are the Best Seasons for Booking with DVC Points?

Booking your DVC vacations is all about getting the timing right. Certain times of the year are more advantageous for using your DVC points because the demand—and therefore the required points—is lower. Here’s what you need to know:

Value Season: The best time to book with your DVC points is typically during the Value Season, which includes parts of January, May, and September. During these times, the parks can be less crowded, and resorts require fewer points per night.
Avoid Peak Season (if you can): On the flip side, Peak Season tends to be during major holidays (like Christmas and New Year’s), spring break, and the summer months. These times require a higher point allotment for reservations, making them less ideal if you’re trying to stretch your points.
Sunday – Thursday is the cheapest time of the week to use your points – Booking a stay Friday – Sunday? No problem, but be aware that the number of points per night increases at the weekend.

Can I Change My Home Resort?

It’s important to choose your DVC Home Resort carefully because you can’t change it after your initial purchase.

You could sell your current contract and buy a new contract, but you can’t amend your Home Resort.

Ta Ta For Now

Choosing a budget-friendly DVC Home Resort doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The key is to consider all the important factors, from initial costs and annual fees to location and amenities.

Whether you lean towards the charm of Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, the spacious comfort of Disney’s Old Key West Resort, or the unique experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas, there’s a perfect, budget-friendly option for everyone. Don’t forget to check out the resale market, understand the length of the contract, and keep checking market trends for the best deals.

Which do you think is the best budget-friendly DVC Home Resort?