4. Cheaper is better

Image: Disney

In posting this series of DVC articles, I have noticed that every single one is met with a comment about the sticker shock of DVC ownership. People have claimed that as much as $25,000 is required to join. In performing research for this column, I discovered 15 different resale contracts available right now that cost $5,000 or less. The cheapest one is only $2,100 for 30 points. I would note that you may not be able to visit long with only 60 points every two years, but a purchase like that is a solid choice for customers who want to dip their toes in the water prior to a long swim.

Until you are 100% confident that you love everything about DVC membership, there is no justification for spending a lot of money. Instead, target a small contract featuring a minimal investment. This option is unavailable via direct purchase, which is not accidental. Disney wants you to spend $13,000+ so that you are pot-committed. Be savvier and a bit more frugal initially to make sure that DVC is for you.

5. Understand your financing options

Image: Disney

At the risk of offending the Dave Ramsey fans reading these columns, remember that financing is available. In fact, people who buy directly through Disney do not even receive a hard inquiry on their credit report. Those who seek to purchase via resale have a lot of options as well. Prosper and Lending Club both offer such small loans, and a $5,000 resale purchase could be financed for as little as $154 per month for three years. Note that you will pay about $550 in interest (i.e. 11% over three years) if you choose this option, but it’s a viable alternative for those who want to purchase without having the available capital.

Obviously, as a DVC member, I fully recommend that others join. I am, however, a financial adviser, so I don’t want to mislead anyone about the expense. Even a few thousand dollars is a lot of money to most people. Whether you get what you pay for with DVC membership is in the eye of the beholder. If the main sticking point for you has been the sticker shock, however, you should now realize that an investment of a few thousand dollars could provide a many years of enjoyable vacations for you and your loved ones.