I am a newbie to DVC (waiting on ROFR for contract sent 3/20) and just spent a couple of hours catching up on this thread. I had been reading other threads and it seemed to me that most resale owners are very happy with their decision (and savings) of buying resale. But now that I read this, it seems a lot of owners think being hybrid is best and I'm getting FOMO big time!
We had considered buying direct at RIV for a long time, but ultimately I couldn't justify spending so much on that when I could do resale. So we went for a 150pt contract at BWV since we love the Epcot area and didn't want all the restrictions of RIV resale. And up to a few days ago I was very happy with that. Now I am wondering if we should buy a 150pt direct contract at RIV still because, hey, we will always find a way to spend the extra points! But I have a lot of questions, and would like to have a full understanding before giving this further consideration.
1. Who is eligible for the "Welcome Home Additional Credit"?
2. Can anyone take advantage of the Magical Beginnings?
3. Can you get direct benefits if you buy 3 direct 50pt contracts at different times? Or does it have to be a one time 150pt contract?
4. Someone in here mentioned not being able to get the Sorcerer's Pass after buying direct; is this because of Disney not offering them all the time? Or are there other restrictions?
And other random questions...
5. What are SAP/SAP+ points?
6. I read a lot of comments about booking at 11mo and then switch at 7mo. Is this just people not wanting to stay at their home resort? Or are there other reasons for this?
Thanks for your help as I'm earning my ears