DVC Resale: Selling Without a Broker? Here’s What You Need to Know

With the growing popularity of DVC rental and resale Facebook groups, more owners are exploring the idea of selling their contracts without the help of a licensed broker. This “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) approach is often seen as a way to maximize profits by avoiding broker commission fees. While the appeal is understandable, it’s important to recognize the complexities involved in navigating a DVC resale independently.

Having worked in the industry for over 15 years, I’ve witnessed firsthand how these private sales often unfold. Each year, we’re approached by owners who initially attempted to handle the sale themselves, many even bringing their own buyer, only to find the process far more challenging than expected. In most cases, those deals fail to reach a signed contract.

If you’re considering selling your DVC contract on your own, this article outlines five key reasons why using a professional broker may ultimately save you time, money, and stress.

The Truth About DVC Closing Timelines

Closing a Disney Vacation Club resale takes a minimum 5-6 weeks, some longer depending on the state the property is located in. No matter how you sell your contract, Disney is involved with every step. First, they have Right of First Refusal (ROFR) to review contracts and decide if they wish to buy. If your contract and supporting documents submitted for ROFR are not 100% correct, they will ask for corrections, amendments, or additional documentation that can lead to delays or even buyer cancellations. This is something our brokerage does everyday so we are well-versed in the process and how to prepare a file correctly for submission. After your transaction has closed (deed recorded and any money owed sent to Disney), Disney must close out your contract and settle any debts, then set up the new owners membership. This part of the process takes anywhere from 2-4 weeks. Overall, you’re looking at 6-8 weeks for closing if all goes as planned without delays.

What Title and Escrow Really Do (and Don’t Do) 

While the title and escrow company plays a very important role, they are not solely responsible for the transaction. Their duty is to provide escrow services: collect and hold funds, perform a title search, issue title insurance, and prepare and record a new deed that transfers title to the buyers. With a Disney Vacation Club sale, there are quite a few steps involved to the process that the title company will not do on your behalf. Such as: preparing a contract, confirming or explaining the use year, point status (banked, borrowed, holding), or helping prepare a summary of what the buyer is actually purchasing.

Do You Know What You’re Selling? Understanding Your Point Summary

The very first thing we do when listing an ownership for sale is confirm the points available. Buyers need to know exactly what they are purchasing and how many points they have available to them. In the timeshare world we call this “right of use” or “occupancy” and its a feature to a purchase agreement that must be correctly stated. Are points banked, borrowed, in holding? Do they expire? Do you have a pending reservation? This all has to be disclosed to the buyer.  These details are critical in a DVC resale, and if not properly disclosed or managed, they can lead to confusion, delays, or even cancellations.

Can You Explain the DVC Program to a Buyer?  

Let’s be honest, Disney Vacation Club is a bit complex. The average owner does not fully understand the intricacies of the program. You purchased your contract for your own vacation habits but what about your buyer? They most likely do not have the same plans you had. Are you confident you can explain the point system to them and answer questions they may have? Chances are that what you bought for your personal use, is not a good fit for your buyer. When you work with a broker, you have access to thousands of buyers who will be matched to your contract based on their vacations wants and needs. A good DVC resale broker has the knowledge and ability to explain the DVC program to potential buyers and match them with their perfect contract. Not only does that help to sell your ownership quicker, but it greatly reduces cancellation rates by un-informed buyers. 

Are You Familiar With Florida Timeshare Law?

I cannot stress enough the importance of knowing the laws in our state. Consumers in years past were heavily targeted by timeshare scammers and as a result, Florida has implemented very strict laws when it comes to timeshare sales and resales. The Attorney General, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), and the Florida Real Estate Commission (FREC) heavily regulate our industry to protect buyers and sellers. Purchase agreements for timeshares, even private sales, must adhere to strict language and if they don’t, the contract is voidable by the purchaser up to ONE year after closing the transaction. 

The Value of Working With a Licensed DVC Broker

Selling a DVC contract on your own might seem like a straightforward way to save on commissions, but the risks and complexities involved can easily outweigh the potential benefits. From navigating legal paperwork to ensuring a secure and smooth transaction, there’s a lot at stake, and often, DIY deals fall apart before reaching the finish line.

Working with a licensed broker not only provides peace of mind but also gives you access to industry expertise, marketing tools, and a vetted network of buyers. If you’re serious about getting the best value for your contract while avoiding costly pitfalls, partnering with a professional can make all the difference.

If you have questions about the resale process or want to explore your options, we’re here to help. Let’s make sure your sale is handled efficiently, securely, and with your best interests in mind.

Posted By:

Kristen Tutas