What Is ROFR?
Disney's Right of First Refusal (ROFR) gives Disney the option to purchase any DVC resale contract at the agreed-upon sale price before the buyer completes the purchase. This process typically takes 30-45 days after an offer is accepted and is a critical step in every DVC resale transaction.
ROFR exists because Disney retained this right in the original purchase contracts. It allows Disney to control the resale market to some degree and replenish their inventory of points to sell directly at higher prices.
The ROFR Timeline
ROFR Process Step-by-Step
| Day | Action | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Offer accepted, contract submitted to Disney | Waiting |
| Days 2-30 | Disney reviews the contract details | Under Review |
| Day 30-45 | Disney makes final decision | Decision Pending |
| After Decision | Proceed to closing OR Disney exercises ROFR | Waived or Taken |
Why Does Disney Exercise ROFR?
Disney exercises ROFR primarily when contracts are priced significantly below market value. Several factors influence their decision:
- Price per point: The lower the price, the more likely Disney will take it back
- Resort popularity: High-demand resorts like Bay Lake Tower face more ROFR
- Contract size: Larger contracts (200+ points) are more attractive to Disney
- Current inventory needs: Disney's need to replenish resale inventory
- Loaded points: Contracts with banked or current points are more valuable
ROFR Exercise Rates by Resort (2024-2025)
| Resort | ROFR Rate | Safe Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Bay Lake Tower | High (25-35%) | $150+/point |
| Beach Club | High (20-30%) | $145+/point |
| Polynesian | Medium (15-25%) | $140+/point |
| Saratoga Springs | Low (5-10%) | $105+/point |
| Old Key West | Low (5-10%) | $95+/point |
What Happens If Disney Exercises ROFR?
If Disney decides to exercise ROFR on your contract, here is what happens:
- Disney notifies the closing company of their intent to purchase
- Disney purchases the contract at the exact price you offered—no negotiation
- You receive your deposit back in full, typically within 2-3 weeks
- You can continue searching for another contract immediately
- The seller receives payment from Disney instead of you
While disappointing, having ROFR exercised is not the end of the world. Many buyers simply adjust their offer price slightly and find success on their next attempt.
Strategies to Pass ROFR Successfully
To increase your chances of passing ROFR, consider these proven strategies:
Tips for ROFR Success
- Research recent sales: Check ROFR tracking sites for passing prices at your target resort
- Price competitively: Offer at or slightly above the recent passing threshold
- Consider timing: Disney may be more aggressive early in their fiscal year (October)
- Look at less popular resorts: Saratoga Springs and Old Key West have lower ROFR rates
- Consider stripped contracts: Contracts without current/banked points are less attractive to Disney
- Smaller contracts may pass easier: Disney often targets larger point blocks
ROFR Waived: What Comes Next?
When Disney waives ROFR, you are officially cleared to proceed with your purchase. The closing process typically takes another 2-3 weeks and includes:
- Final document preparation by the title company
- Wire transfer of remaining funds
- Deed transfer and recording
- Disney membership activation (1-2 weeks after closing)
Understanding ROFR is essential for any DVC resale buyer. While it adds uncertainty to the process, most contracts do pass—especially when priced appropriately. Patience and realistic expectations are your best tools for navigating this unique aspect of DVC resale purchases.