We have been eyeballing a first purchase (resale) early in 2022. Have half the money put aside already. Been thinking on this pretty heavily for the past few years, and rented Poly early last year (pre-COVID) and renting BCV this September and touring the other options (VGF, CCV, AKL) on a dedicated Saturday. It isn't these specific decisions that give me pause (though they really matter) - it is what they portend. As said by others...Disney prices go in one direction, but perks clearly can go both ways. And right now, I think we are EARLY into a negative perk/positive cost vector that will last several years at least, until Disney possibly needs a new Renaissance. Now we love Disney, and we always will. My wife envisions trips there for us, for our DS' (17) family, for our friends (as a gift). But all this tumult gives me a lot of pause for the perceived value of the investment, especially as the number of unknowns (and risks) continues to increase.
In the end, I think we will plan to continue to set aside the money as if we plan to purchase, and we will re-evaluate as the parks start to open closer to normalcy. Unfortunately, I believe the "bottom line" direction will continue for a few years after normalcy is achieved. I was concerned when Mr. Chapek took over...bean counters are never visionaries. I understand COVID has created unprecedented stress, but I also have little interest in paying premium prices for average experiences. I'll keep an eye on prices, perks, and corporate direction before committing any long term investments. Kind of a bummer after a few years of planning, but no worries. Better to see more clearly sooner than later.
In the end, I think we will plan to continue to set aside the money as if we plan to purchase, and we will re-evaluate as the parks start to open closer to normalcy. Unfortunately, I believe the "bottom line" direction will continue for a few years after normalcy is achieved. I was concerned when Mr. Chapek took over...bean counters are never visionaries. I understand COVID has created unprecedented stress, but I also have little interest in paying premium prices for average experiences. I'll keep an eye on prices, perks, and corporate direction before committing any long term investments. Kind of a bummer after a few years of planning, but no worries. Better to see more clearly sooner than later.