How Long Does It Really Take to Sell Your DVC Membership?
Price it right, sell it faster
Listing Price
The asking price is one of the biggest influences on how quickly your contract sells. If your listing is priced above current market value, buyers will likely pass it by in favor of better deals. A well-researched, competitive price attracts serious buyers faster. Use tools like resale calculators and current listings to stay in line with market expectations.
Not all resorts are created equal
Resort & Location
Certain DVC resorts have higher demand due to their location, size, and booking perks. For example, resorts on the monorail line (like the Grand Floridian or Polynesian) are highly sought after and tend to sell more quickly. Smaller resorts with limited availability also attract more attention. The resort you own can significantly impact buyer interest.
Timing is everything
Use Year & Point Availability
Buyers often look for contracts with points that are available immediately or rolling over into the next year. A contract with a depleted point bank might sell for less—or take longer to sell. The Use Year also matters: some buyers prefer certain months based on their vacation habits and planning cycles.
Fast communication = successful sales
Response Time
Sellers who are slow to respond to offers can lose their buyer who goes with the first seller who agrees to their terms. Responding promptly to buyer inquiries and offers shows you are a motivated seller and keeps buyers engaged in the transaction.
Understanding the Complete DVC Resale Timeline
From the moment you list your Disney Vacation Club membership to receiving your final payment, the complete resale process typically takes six to ten weeks. This timeline includes finding a buyer, the Right of First Refusal review period, title company processing, and ownership transfer through Disney. Understanding each phase helps sellers set realistic expectations and prepare for a smooth transaction.
The Right of First Refusal Process
Once you accept an offer and both parties sign the contract, the transaction enters Disney's Right of First Refusal review. This contractual provision appears in all DVC deeds and gives Disney the option to purchase any resale contract at the agreed-upon price and terms. The ROFR review period typically lasts about 30 days, though some decisions come faster. During this time, the buyer's deposit remains securely in escrow with the title company. Disney does not provide status updates during the review period, so patience is essential while awaiting their decision.
If Disney exercises ROFR, they purchase the contract instead of the original buyer. Sellers receive the same sale price regardless of whether Disney or the buyer completes the purchase. The buyer receives a full refund of their deposit and any fees paid. If Disney waives ROFR, the transaction proceeds to the title company for closing preparation. Disney exercises ROFR primarily to maintain contract values and manage inventory, often targeting contracts priced significantly below market value or from high-demand resorts.
Post-ROFR Closing Steps
After Disney waives ROFR, the title company initiates the closing process. This phase typically takes one to three weeks and involves several critical steps. The title company orders an estoppel certificate from Disney, which verifies the current status of your contract including point balances and any outstanding dues. Disney typically provides this certificate within one to two weeks of the request. The title company simultaneously conducts title searches and prepares closing documents including the deed transferring ownership, settlement statements, and required disclosures.
Both buyer and seller must sign documents to finalize the closing. Many title companies offer electronic signing options for convenience. Timely responses to document signing requests are crucial, as delays can extend the overall timeline. Once all documents are signed and funds are transferred, the title company records the new deed and Disney processes the membership transfer.
Factors That Influence Your Sale Timeline
Several factors determine how quickly your contract attracts buyers. Pricing is the most significant factor in the transparent DVC resale market where buyers easily compare multiple listings. Contracts priced above comparable sales often sit without offers while competitively priced listings generate faster interest. Resort popularity also plays a role, with contracts at sought-after resorts like Polynesian Village, Beach Club, and Grand Floridian typically attracting more buyer attention than resorts with larger inventories like Saratoga Springs.
Point availability significantly impacts buyer interest. Contracts with current year or banked points ready for immediate use are more attractive than stripped contracts without available points. Buyers prefer acquiring points they can book with right away rather than waiting months for their first allocation. Timing your sale to coincide with point availability can help attract more buyers and potentially command a better price per point.
Strategic Timing for Your Sale
Annual dues for DVC are typically due by January 15 each year. Selling before this deadline means the new owner covers these dues rather than you. Listing in late fall through early winter positions your contract to close before the dues deadline. However, this period also sees increased competition among sellers. Selling after points become available for your current use year but before using them maximizes the value you can offer buyers.
Working With a Licensed Broker
Selling through a licensed real estate broker ensures a secure and legally compliant transaction. The broker handles buyer negotiations, contract preparation, and coordination with the title company throughout the closing process. Our team assists sellers in determining appropriate pricing based on current market conditions and recent comparable sales. There are no upfront fees to list your contract, and commission is only paid upon successful completion of the sale.