How to Become a Disney Vacation Club Member: A Step-by-Step Guide
Disney Vacation Club (DVC) is a popular timeshare program operated by Disney that offers its members the opportunity to purchase a share of the Disney Vacation Club, which grants them access to a range of Disney resorts and accommodations. If you’re interested in becoming a DVC member, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for DVC membership, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria. Here are the basic requirements:
- You must be at least 18 years old (or 21 in some cases)
- You must provide proof of identity and residency
- You must agree to the terms and conditions of the DVC contract
Step 2: Choose Your Preferred Purchase
DVC offers several options for purchasing a contract, including:
- Direct Purchase: Buy a contract directly from Disney
- Brokers or Resale: Purchase a contract from a third-party broker or reseller
- Pre-Construction: Buy a contract during the pre-construction phase for a new DVC resort
Step 3: Review and Understand the Contract
Before purchasing a contract, make sure to review and understand the terms and conditions. Some important points to consider:
- Contract Term: DVC contracts typically range from 50-100 years
- Monthly Maintenance Fees: Fees can range from $100 to over $1,000 per month, depending on the resort and contract size
- Usage Allocation: Weeks or points (units) used each year can affect your total points bank
Step 4: Apply for DVC Membership
To apply, you’ll need to:
- Fill out the DVC application form and provide required documentation
- Pay the initial payment (depending on the contract size and purchase option)
- Sign the contract and agree to the terms and conditions
Step 5: Receive Your DVC Membership
Once your application is processed and your contract is complete, you’ll receive:
- A welcome package with your contract details and member information
- A DVC ID card for access to Disney resorts and perks
- Access to the DVC Member website and online reservation system
Additional Tips and Considerations
Here are some additional tips and considerations to keep in mind:
- Budgeting: Make sure to factor in the costs of monthly maintenance fees, Hilton Head, and any additional expenses
- Resale Restrictions: Be aware of resale restrictions and potential fees for transferring or selling your contract
- Rental Options: Consider renting out your contract to offset costs or take a vacation without incurring additional expenses
DVC Resort Options
As a DVC member, you’ll have access to:
- 8 Disney Vacation Club Resorts:
- Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary Resort
- Beach Club Villas at the Beach Club Resort
- Boulder Ridge Villas at the Wilderness Lodge
- Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at the Wilderness Lodge
- Grand Californian Villas
- Kidani Village
- Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
- Vero Beach
- Other Disney-Managed Resorts: Some resorts, like the Grand Floridian and Polynesian Villas, offer a limited number of DVC accommodations
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Rent Out My Contract?: Yes, but be aware of resale restrictions and fees
- Can I Sell My Contract?: Yes, but be aware of resale restrictions and fees
- Can I Use My Contract for Future Disney Resorts?: Yes, but availability and restrictions apply
In conclusion, becoming a Disney Vacation Club member requires careful consideration and planning. By following these steps and understanding the contract, you’ll be well-prepared for a magical Disney vacation experience.
Ultimately, the key to success is understanding the benefits and limitations of DVC membership, as well as the costs and responsibilities involved.
DVC RESORTS
| Resort | Location | Studio/1-Bedroom Villas | 2-Bedroom Villas | 3-Bedroom Villas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bay Lake Tower | Bay Lake | 1,050 | 300 | 150 |
| Beach Club Villas | Beach Club | 340 | 120 | 60 |
| Boulder Ridge Villas | Wilderness Lodge | 150 | 90 | 30 |
| Copper Creek Villas | Wilderness Lodge | 200 | 120 | 60 |
| Grand Californian Villas | Grand Californian | 450 | 150 | 60 |
| Kidani Village | Animal Kingdom | 400 | 120 | 60 |
| Saratoga Springs | Disney Springs | 250 | 100 | 40 |
| Vero Beach | Vero Beach | 100 | 40 | 20 |
DVC SELECTIONS
| Selection | Studio/1-Bedroom Villas | 2-Bedroom Villas | 3-Bedroom Villas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bay Lake Tower | 1,050 | 300 | 150 |
| Beach Club Villas | 340 | 120 | 60 |
| Boulder Ridge Villas | 150 | 90 | 30 |
| Copper Creek Villas | 200 | 120 | 60 |
| Grand Californian Villas | 450 | 150 | 60 |
| Kidani Village | 400 | 120 | 60 |
| Saratoga Springs | 250 | 100 | 40 |
| Vero Beach | 100 | 40 | 20 |
DVC RENTAL OPTIONS
| Rent Type | Studio/1-Bedroom Villas | 2-Bedroom Villas | 3-Bedroom Villas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weekday | 1,500-2,500 | 2,500-4,000 | 4,000-6,000 |
| Weekend | 2,500-4,000 | 4,000-6,000 | 6,000-9,000 |
| Holiday | 3,500-6,000 | 6,000-10,000 | 10,000-15,000 |
Note: Rates are approximate and may vary depending on the resort and season.