Hey Disney Vacationers! Alright, let’s talk money—and magic.
Disney Vacation Club (DVC) just dropped a new financing option that’s got a lot of us longtime Members (and future ones) talking. For the first time ever, buyers can now opt for a 15-year finance term when purchasing points directly through Disney. And yes, that means lower monthly payments… but it also means a longer path to paying it off and more interest over time.
As a DVC Member myself, I’ve got some thoughts. Let’s break down what this change really means and whether it makes sense for you.
What Is the New DVC 15 Year Finance Term?
Disney Vacation Club now offers a 15-year financing option for both new buyers and current Members adding-on. It’s available at all resorts currently being sold, including the new Polynesian Island Tower and the Cabins at Fort Wilderness.
Here’s what you need to know:
- New buyers get an interest rate starting at 12.5% for both 10- and 15-year terms.
- If you opt into direct debit, that rate drops to 12%.
- Current DVC owners get a slightly better deal: 11.5% base rate or 11% with direct debit.
- A 10% down payment is required upfront (for 150 points, that’s around $3,400).
- These numbers do not include annual dues.
So yes, you can spread the cost out longer. But what does that actually look like month to month?
10-Year vs. 15-Year: Side-by-Side Comparison
Let’s say you’re buying 150 points at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, with current promotions and direct debit applied.
Here’s what that looks like:
Buyer Type | Term | Monthly Payment | Total Interest | Down Payment (10%) |
---|---|---|---|---|
First-Time Buyer | 10 Years | $445.48 | ~$23,057 | ~$3,400 |
First-Time Buyer | 15 Years | $372.65 | ~$36,740 | ~$3,400 |
Current Owner | 10 Years | $420.28 | ~$21,269 | ~$3,400 |
Current Owner | 15 Years | $346.78 | ~$33,290 | ~$3,400 |
The monthly difference feels nice—but keep in mind, the 15-year option can cost you over $13,000 more in interest if you’re a new buyer.
Why Would Disney Offer a 15-Year Term Now?
There are a couple of likely reasons:
- Rising prices: As of February 2025, the price per point jumped to $235. That’s a steep buy-in, especially for new Members.
- Economic pressure: With high interest rates across the board, giving people a longer timeline can help ease short-term cost concerns.
It’s smart on Disney’s part—and it gives more flexibility to families who want in but can’t swing the higher monthly payments.
My Take as a DVC Member
Let me give it to you straight. If you can manage the 10-year loan, you’re better off in the long run.
That said, there’s no prepayment penalty with DVC. So here’s what I’ve done: I took the 10-year loan (longest at the time of purchase) and made extra payments whenever I had the chance. It shaved years off my payoff date and saved me a ton in interest. It’s like having the flexibility of a longer term, but without the long-term cost if you stay aggressive.
If your budget is tight, the 15-year option might help you get in the door. Just go in with eyes wide open.
How the 15-Year Term Impacts Your Break-Even Point
Let’s talk value. One of the biggest perks of DVC is locking in future vacation costs. When resort rates keep climbing, your points stay the same. Or, as I like to say, you’re hedging against inflation.
But with the longer loan, your break-even point gets pushed out. For the average family of four doing a 7-night stay at a Deluxe resort each year, that could mean waiting 3–4 more years before you hit the point where DVC actually saves you money.
So if you’re thinking long-term, do the math. Is the flexibility now worth the added cost later?
A Quick Reminder on DVC Loan Terms
- Interest rates may vary depending on your credit.
- These are not guaranteed offers and subject to change.
- You may be offered higher rates if your credit doesn’t meet DVC’s standards.
- Monthly dues are not included in any of the monthly payment numbers.
- This is not professional financial advice—just honest insights from a DVC Member who’s been there.
FAQs About the DVC 15-Year Finance Term
Q: Is the DVC 15-year loan available for all resorts?
Yes. It’s available at all DVC resorts currently being sold, including the newest options.
Q: Can I pay off the loan early?
Absolutely. DVC does not charge prepayment penalties. You can knock out chunks whenever you want.
Q: Will I save money with the 15-year term?
Not really. You’ll save month-to-month, but you’ll pay more in interest overall. It’s a tradeoff of short-term relief vs. long-term value.
Q: What’s the lifespan of ownership on these points?
For example, Polynesian points expire January 31, 2066, and the new Cabins at Fort Wilderness go until January 2075. So you’ll still have decades of vacations after your loan is paid off—even with a 15-year term.
Final Thought
Disney Vacation Club’s new 15-year finance term gives you another option in how you buy in—but it’s not a free pass. It’s a longer leash that can help with upfront costs, but it comes with more interest and a delayed break-even. If you’re thinking about it, run the numbers carefully.
And if you’re like me—someone who loves DVC and sees it as a long-term investment in family memories—just know that getting in smarter now means more magic later.
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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop
I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!
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