BROKER’S PICK: Which resorts to buy resale in 2023

We’ve just posted an updated price list for DVC direct buys (as of 12/5/22) and a comparison with average resale prices over the last three months. After looking over the price differences, what is the best resort to buy resale in 2023? Here are my TOP THREE picks:

#3 – Saratoga Springs 

You really can’t go wrong with Saratoga Springs. It’s our most commonly purchased resort for new and existing owners and there’s plenty of inventory available to find your perfect contract.  While it’s not a brand new resort, it has been recently refurbished so it looks brand new and you’ll have the ownership for over 30 years – three decades of memories! Also, since it’s the largest DVC resort, there are plenty of owners sharing the costs. This keeps maintenance fees relatively low and steady year after year. For 2023, the dues bill for 200 points annually will cost you $1,572 for the year or $131/month. Trade your points for another resort at the 7 month window to really make this a great purchase. 

Direct: $205 per point
Resale: Avg of $118 per point (a savings of 42%!)

#2 – Boulder Ridge Villas

I had to give some love to one of my favorite resorts, Wilderness Lodge. It’s absolutely charming (especially during the holidays), close to the parks yet far enough away to feel secluded and the restaurants here are some of the best! Depending on where your room is located, you may just catch the nightly fireworks and water pageant. While the Boulder Ridge Villas are older units, they are currently undergoing total renovations right now to bring them up to new standards and incorporate the features we’ve grown to love at the newer resorts. By the end of the year, these units will be brand new! Resale prices are almost half of Disney’s direct price which makes this a great deal, even with the 2042 expiration date. 

Direct: $215 per point
Resale: Avg of $116 per point (a savings of 46%!)

#1 – Bay Lake Tower 

If you’re looking for a Magic Kingdom “home” at a deep discount, my choice is Bay Lake Tower. With a price tag of $275 per point direct, this is a premium Walt Disney World resort for DVC. The only other WDW resort at this price point is Beach Club Villas. With an average resale price currently at $160 per point, you’re getting DVC accommodations within walking distance to Magic Kingdom and a contract life until year 2060 at a huge discount. Bay Lake Tower shares amenities with the Contemporary Hotel which helps keep maintenance costs down. At $7.42 per point for 2023, the dues bills are very manageable. This makes it an all around, great buy in 2023!

Direct: $275 per point
Resale: Avg of $160 per point (a savings of 42%!)

I will always stand by my biggest advice: “Buy where you want to stay!” At the end of the day, you want to be able to book your accommodations at the location you really want to be instead of hoping to get something else outside the priority booking windows.  However, if you’re not one to plan 11 months in advance and you like resort-hopping, then pick a resort that makes the most financial sense for you.

Have questions? Contact us below and we’ll be happy to help you find the perfect DVC contract! 

Posted By:

Kristen Tutas