Sometimes when we actually look into something, it's not what we initially thought. There are a lot of misconceptions about Disney Vacation Club. Add resale to the conversation and there is even more to research and consider. Is it better to buy Disney Vacation Club directly from Disney? Should I buy DVC direct? Is it worth buying DVC direct for the perks? Let's go over the benefits and who should buy DVC direct and why. You may discover, as Pocahontas sings, some things you never knew you never knew.

Is it better to buy DVC resale or direct from Disney?

Whether you should buy direct or resale DVC is a decision that should be made based on your current and future vacation wishes. Your first consideration is, it's possible to save a lot of money buying resale instead of direct. As a resale DVC owner, you aren't eligible for Membership Extras like lounges, events and discounts. We'll go over why this may not matter, though, and how resale may be a better option overall for many.

Do you get Membership Extras perks when you buy DVC direct?

Not everyone that buys DVC direct from Disney gets all of the perks.

First off, if you're thinking about purchasing the minimum amount of points direct from Disney, it's 100 points in 2025. However, that amount, or even 125 points, will not get you access to the Membership Extras benefits.

As of 2025, Disney's minimum required buy in for these benefits is 150 points. Some Members may have purchased under different requirements and have access to those Membership Extras already. At this time, however, if you plan to purchase under 150 points, you will not be able to use the perks anyway.

It may be possible to purchase additional points in the future and become eligible for Membership Extras. Let's say you plan to buy 100 points now and may want to add on 50 points or more in the future. Those direct points may be able to combine and make you eligible for extras depending on Disney's rules at the time. Still, read on to consider some things about owning direct vs. resale.

Even if you're eligible for perks, it's often up to chance if you can enjoy these benefits or not. Does your trip align with the DVC event dates? Is the DVC lounge at capacity when you're in that part of the park? Just because you're eligible doesn't mean Membership Extras are guaranteed. There are sometimes additional costs required for these as well.

How much higher are DVC direct prices?

In March of 2025, Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney's Wilderness Lodge is $255 per point direct. For the same property, the average resale price was around $130 per point. It's an average because the amount of points on the contract affects the per point price with resale.

At these rates though, that's almost 50% savings with resale DVC.

On a 150 point contract, a buyer in this scenario could save $18,750 buying resale instead of direct.

That's a substantial amount! Instead of saving money, you could shop for more points and enjoy longer stays or book bigger rooms.

Should you buy direct DVC for the discounts?

It's not a great plan to buy Disney Vacation Club direct just for the discounts. Once you find a resale contract at a price you like, that amount of savings is guaranteed. With DVC discounts, you may or may not be able to use them on the things you would normally buy. For example, there can be restrictions on where and when you can use certain discounts. It may not add up over time. With the resale DVC savings illustrated above, the DVC direct discounts aren't as appealing.

There are other ways to get the discounts offered as a resale DVC member. For example, buying a Disney annual pass gets you access to some similar discounts that can add up. A Disney Visa card may also provide similar discounts and, additionally, reward opportunities.

Discover the Magic of DVC Resale

Can you see yourself visiting Disney World year after year? It's so nice to have a trip to look forward to.

Depending on your wants and wishes, Disney Vacation Club resale may be able to:

• provide Disney hotel stays at fantastic rates
• help you save money compared to buying direct
• get you more points on the same budget compared to buying direct
• give you additional purchasing options like different point values

Resale is a complete transfer of ownership. You take over a contract for an owner who no longer wants theirs and it becomes fully yours. DVC resale works the same as a direct purchase in many ways. There are highlights of staying at deluxe resorts in general like early entry and extended hour opportunities at the parks.

It's worth researching before making any decisions. You may change your mind after seeing what you can save!

As a licensed real estate broker, DVC Resale Experts is ready to serve all of your Disney Vacation Club needs. If you're thinking about buying or selling DVC points, talk to an Expert. It makes all the difference to have someone to consult throughout the process.

Want to become a Member or add on points? See DVC resale listings that are currently available. If you don't see the contract you're wishing for, join the Buyer Wish List to be notified when one becomes available.

Considering selling DVC? The Experts can help with that, too.

Get in touch for a complimentary DVC contract valuation today.