Buying Disney Vacation Club on the resale market can save you thousands of dollars compared to purchasing direct from Disney. However, the resale process has unique aspects that every buyer should understand before signing a contract. Here are five essential things you need to know to make an informed purchase.
1. Right of First Refusal (ROFR)
Disney has the contractual right to match any resale offer and purchase the contract themselves. This process, known as Right of First Refusal (ROFR), adds uncertainty to every resale transaction and typically takes about 30 days to complete.
ROFR Success Rates by Resort (2024-2025)
| Resort | Pass Rate | Disney Takes |
|---|---|---|
| Saratoga Springs | 92% | Low Activity |
| Old Key West | 90% | Low Activity |
| Animal Kingdom | 88% | Moderate |
| Bay Lake Tower | 78% | More Active |
| Polynesian | 75% | More Active |
Tips for Passing ROFR
- Research recent sales at your target resort
- Do not go more than 10-15% below market value
- Larger point contracts tend to pass more often
- Be patient - if Disney takes your contract, you can try again
2. Resale Restrictions Vary by Resort
Not all DVC resale contracts are created equal. Resorts that opened before 2019 have full booking rights at all DVC properties. Newer resorts have restrictions that limit resale buyers to booking only at their home resort.
Unrestricted Resorts (Full Booking Rights)
Old Key West, Saratoga Springs, BoardWalk, Beach Club, Wilderness Lodge, Animal Kingdom, Bay Lake Tower, Grand Floridian, Polynesian, Aulani, Hilton Head, Vero Beach
Restricted Resorts (Home Resort Only)
Riviera Resort, and all future DVC developments
3. Closing Costs Add Up
Beyond the purchase price, budget for closing costs that typically range from $500 to $1,000. These cover title search, document preparation, and recording fees.
Typical Closing Cost Breakdown
- Title Search and Insurance: $200-$300
- Document Preparation: $150-$200
- Recording Fees: $50-$100
- Estoppel Certificate: $75-$150
- Miscellaneous Fees: $50-$100
4. Financing Is Available
You do not need to pay cash! Specialized DVC lenders offer financing with competitive terms that make ownership accessible to more families.
Financing at a Glance
| Down Payment | 10% - 20% minimum |
| Interest Rates | 11.9% - 14.9% APR |
| Loan Terms | 3, 5, 7, or 10 years |
| Approval Time | 24-48 hours |
5. Annual Dues Are Your Ongoing Cost
Beyond the purchase price, DVC ownership includes annual maintenance fees (dues) that cover resort upkeep, property taxes, and operational costs. These dues vary by resort and increase each year.
2025 Annual Dues by Resort (Per Point)
- Lowest: Animal Kingdom Villas ($8.48), Saratoga Springs ($8.67)
- Moderate: Old Key West ($9.41), BoardWalk ($9.82)
- Higher: Bay Lake Tower ($10.15), Beach Club ($10.45)
- Highest: Grand Floridian ($10.89), Polynesian ($11.23)
For a 150-point contract, annual dues typically range from $1,275 to $1,685 per year. Factor this into your long-term vacation budget when deciding how many points to purchase.
Ready to take the next step? Calculate your potential monthly payment with our loan calculator and start your journey to DVC ownership.