First-Time DVC Buyer's Checklist: Everything You Need to Know Before Purchasing

Buying Disney Vacation Club for the first time involves numerous decisions and steps. This comprehensive checklist ensures you don't miss anything important, from initial research through closing and beyond. Follow these steps for a successful first purchase.

Research Phase Checklist

Understand DVC Basics

• Learn how points-based vacation ownership works
• Understand the difference between home resort and exchange booking
• Research all DVC resort options and locations
• Learn about point charts and seasonal variations
• Understand use years and how they affect your planning

Evaluate Your Vacation Patterns

• Calculate how often you visit Disney destinations
• Determine your typical travel party size
• Identify your preferred travel seasons
• Consider whether you prefer specific resorts or enjoy variety
• Project your vacation patterns for the next 10-20 years

Financial Assessment

• Calculate total purchase cost including closing fees
• Research current annual maintenance fees
• Compare DVC costs to your typical Disney spending
• Determine if cash purchase or financing makes sense
• Ensure DVC fits your overall financial plan

Pre-Purchase Decisions

Choose Your Home Resort

Your home resort determines where you can book at the 11-month window. Consider location preference, point costs, maintenance fees, and resort expiration dates. Visit our resort guides to learn about each option.

Determine Point Quantity

Calculate how many points you need based on your typical vacation. Consider room types, seasons, and trip length. Most families find 150-250 points provides good flexibility. You can always add more points later, but buying enough initially provides better value.

Select Use Year

Use year determines when your annual points become available. Choose a use year that aligns with your typical booking timeline. If you usually travel in summer, a February use year gives you fresh points available well before your trip.

Decide on Resale vs. Direct

Resale purchases save 30-50% but lose some perks. Direct purchases include all benefits but cost significantly more. For most buyers, resale provides the best value since core booking benefits are identical.

Shopping Phase Checklist

Find a Reputable Broker

• Research broker reputation and reviews
• Compare inventory across multiple brokers
• Understand commission structures and fees
• Verify broker handles ROFR and closing coordination

Evaluate Listings

• Compare price per point against market rates
• Check point status (current, banked, borrowed)
• Verify use year matches your preference
• Calculate total cost including closing fees
• Confirm resort and contract details

Secure Financing (If Needed)

• Get pre-approved before making offers
• Compare rates from multiple lenders
• Understand all loan terms and conditions
• Verify no prepayment penalties

Purchase Phase Checklist

Make an Offer

• Submit offer through your broker
• Be prepared for negotiation
• Review final terms carefully before accepting
• Understand the ROFR timeline and process

ROFR Period

• Wait 30-45 days for Disney's decision
• Prepare for possibility of ROFR exercise
• Don't make non-refundable travel plans until closing
• Stay in contact with your broker for updates

Closing Process

• Review closing documents carefully
• Wire funds or arrange financing disbursement
• Sign all required paperwork
• Wait for Disney to process ownership transfer

Post-Purchase Checklist

Set Up Your Membership

• Create your Disney Vacation Club member account
• Link your ownership to your Disney account
• Download the DVC app for mobile access
• Review the member website and available tools

Learn the Booking System

• Understand booking windows (11-month and 7-month)
• Learn how to search availability and make reservations
• Set up waitlists for desired dates
• Understand cancellation policies

Plan Your First Trip

• Book at your 11-month window for best selection
• Make dining and experience reservations
• Start looking forward to your DVC vacation!

Need Help Getting Started?

The DVC buying process has many steps, but you don't have to navigate it alone. Browse available listings at DVC Sales to see current inventory, or check DVC Market for pricing research. When you're ready to make a purchase, experienced brokers guide you through every step.