NEWS: Treehouse DVC - More evidence??

[SEDCrockett]

Hi All,

It's been quite a while since I last posted here. Been lurking repeatedly and following the discussions though.

Thought you might find this interesting. OC Comptroller's site posted this document on July 18th and it mentions improvements for the Housekeeping & LAN buildings, Bus Stop North & South and Boat Dock at the Treehouses!

Most intersting is the owner is listed as Disney Vacation Development!!:magnify:

So maybe this is an indication the Treehouses will be DVC?:drool: Or maybe it's just a formality for getting the work done as I've read the Treehouses are still part of SSR's property and there is the possibility at some point they could be detached from SSR and given to Resorts or some other group? Any ideas?:idontgeti

Treehouse Rehab - Boat Dock.pdf (http://www.fileden.com/files/2008/7/2/1986384/Treehouse%20Rehab%20-%20Boat%20Dock.pdf)

[carolina_yankee]

What a fantastic find! Thanks for bringing it to our attention. I've posted it as a news item in our DVC Information, News, & Articles section (2nd tab on top) with thanks to you.

The Tree House Villas just get curiouser and curiouser.

Dirk

[retlaweast]

I was lucky enough to stay in the Treehouse Villas (it was the late 70's ?? I'm not sure, that 1st marriage is still a dark time). I really enjoyed the design and the location. It almost seemed to be a precursor of the DVC with a kitchen, washer & dryer dinning area 3 bedrooms. I think we got a golf cart too. If I recall correctly one of the bathrooms had an unusual bath that was like a walk-in 50 gallon drum with a seat. (something Ed McMahon would be hawking on TV)

Lets hope this will be part of the DVC family... it would add great value to SSR ownership if it was an additional section of that resort. But that seems unrealistic, DVC is a business first and foremost.

None the less, great detective work SEDCrockett !!!!!

Charlie

[NYDVC]

personally would love to stay at the THV on points. always liked the idea of the treehouses. :bouncingp

[Don13875]

Its amazing how you guys find this great stuff thanks. The more options the better. DVC is proving to get better and better year after year as far as choices go anyway.

[TinkWink]

We used the boat service to DTD quite a bit during our visit to OKW last month and I "peeked" every time we rounded the bend near the old Treehouses. I did not see much activity, but I am very curious too! We never stayed there, but have friends who did and I remember how jealous I was because it seemed they were the coolest places to stay. I still think they are pretty cool. :goodvibes

[tomandrobin]

Very nice find, especially from a lurker and not one of the regular posters!

Great Job!!

[SEDCrockett]

Does anyone recall seeing a boat dock in the vicinity of the Treehouses?

It's mentioned in the document and I'm wondering if it was a small dock for just personal watercraft and such or something more substantial like those at Port Orleans or OKW for boat service to DTD, etc.

I would tend to think that whatever the future purpose of the Treehouses, the boat dock would be made to handle larger boats that could convey guests to and from DTD - just wondering if that occurred in the past.:confused:

[tinker_me_happy]

If the addition of the tree houses were to remain a part of SSR would that change SSR booking? I would LOVE to stay in a tree house!

[cincinmouse]

I have spent my lunch break going over the new 3D goggle earth and MSN maps :computerg and cannot find anything along the river that looks like a boat dock. However when the address on the permit for the bock dock is typed into MSN you get the location with the arrow below next to the pool. Until someone with a better knowledge of the treehouse chimes in I would not hold my hopes up for a boat dock since it looks like one would have to be built and the permit calls for refurbishment.


http://i279.photobucket.com/albums/kk159/cincinmouse/treehouseboatdock.jpg

[tomandrobin]

There is no existing boat dock at the Tree house Villas

[carolina_yankee]

I know the permit says refurbishment, but I think the boat dock has to be new, and has to be on the river itself. This is clearly going to be a resort of some kind (DVC or CRO), so it needs its own launch to Downtown Disney - or at least a stop on the OKW or PO runs.

Since THV predates PO (and the popularity of DD), I would suspect they never had a boat dock.

[Blue&Gold]

I'm certainly no real estate attorney, but I think this can be read in such a way as to imply refurbishment of the entire Tree House property, not just specific component structures. Adding a new boat dock can be viewed as simply one piece of refurbishing the resort.

[cincinmouse]

Does it have to have its own? With the bridge/connection to SSR Compare the walking distant from the Carousel area to the SSR boat dock, would not be that much greater than most of the THV to the SSR boat dock?

[tomandrobin]

The distance would be too far to walk to SSR's boat luanch/dock.

[cincinmouse]

I'm certainly no real estate attorney, but I think this can be read in such a way as to imply refurbishment of the entire Tree House property, not just specific component structures. Adding a new boat dock can be viewed as simply one piece of refurbishing the resort.

I am not one either but I do keep and eye on all the permits the get filed over on another WDW board and most but not all the permits can be very specific. If an outside company is doing the work even if it is to install a new outlet somewhere a permit must be filed. The permit to rehab the structures has already been filed several months ago. But only time will tell.

[administrator]

I am not one either but I do keep and eye on all the permits the get filed over on another WDW board and most but not all the permits can be very specific. If an outside company is doing the work even if it is to install a new outlet somewhere a permit must be filed. The permit to rehab the structures has already been filed several months ago. But only time will tell.

Yes, we reported that here five months ago. Here's the thread. (http://www.mouseowners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=13006)

[SEDCrockett]

OK, after some searching I came across the photo below. I don't know when it dates from but a dock is visible at the top of the photo. I'm guessing it would qualify for "refurbishment" if any of it remained - an old footing, a submerged piling, etc.

http://i217.photobucket.com/albums/cc97/sdavey41/THVdock.jpg

Crockett

[PolyColleen]

That photo is a classic! Wow --time warp to 1978! Thanks :)

[tinker_me_happy]

Awesome photo!

Off topic: SEDCrockett Where in central MA are you from?

[carolina_yankee]

Does it have to have its own? With the bridge/connection to SSR Compare the walking distant from the Carousel area to the SSR boat dock, would not be that much greater than most of the THV to the SSR boat dock?

Given that most of SSR isn't convenient to the boat dock, that's not a ringing endorsement for another resort's access. ;)

Dirk

[Disneyracingfan]

There's a Boat Dock at SSR ;) :hahahaha:

[Daitcher]

What's with DVC these days?

Is it just me or didn't the THV's tank to begin with? Why do they think that they will sudenly have appeal? I've got no interest whatsoever in that bug infested swamp land that the THV's sit on.

I don't get this one at all.


DAVE

[carolina_yankee]

What's with DVC these days?

Is it just me or didn't the THV's tank to begin with? Why do they think that they will sudenly have appeal? I've got no interest whatsoever in that bug infested swamp land that the THV's sit on.

I don't get this one at all.


DAVE

If they do it right, it will probably be as good or better than the bug infested swamp land that's Fort Wilderness. :tongue:

If they did go bust, it could have been because of amenities, and their distance from the parks. However, they seem to have loyal fans. If they can upgrade amenities, they should be OK. Port Orleans, Old Key West, and SSR have done away with the proximity to park issue.

Besides, if there is demand for their size of accommodations, they could be very popular.

Dirk

[Blue&Gold]

Anything that can be done to increase the perceived "value" of SSR is a good thing for the entire program... Been over to any of the resale sites lately to view the huge number of SSR contracts on the block?

I hope the DVC resort that already is too damn big gets a little bit bigger, and those THV units become a prime booking category.

[hilaw]

Been noticing all the for sale listings for SSR recently.
More and more these days.

[disneyfreak89]

I've got no interest whatsoever in that bug infested swamp land that the THV's sit on.

Sure, it may be a bug infested swamp land NOW but once they replace all the treehouses, wack all the overgrown trees, shrubs and grass down, repave and give everything a fresh coat of paint, its going to be a beautiful resort!

If they did go bust, it could have been because of amenities, and their distance from the parks. However, they seem to have loyal fans. If they can upgrade amenities, they should be OK. Port Orleans, Old Key West, and SSR have done away with the proximity to park issue. Besides, if there is demand for their size of accommodations, they could be very popular.

Also, I agree with you Dirk that it may not have been as popular waaaaay back when because of its amenities and location, but DVC has grown huge since the THV's were around and the grand villas are so popular now, I think DVC will have no problem filling these up. :thumbsup:

[carolina_yankee]

One caution to bear in mind is that previous rumors (Deep Croaker, I think) suggested a big fight between DVC and CRO as to who gets the Tree Houses. They are on DVD land right now, so that's probably why DVD is listed as developer. If BLT turns out to be 100% DVC, then CRO may have more leverage for the Tree Houses.

If they are DVC, it's going to be really wild watching them figure out if it's an SSR category (which doesn't fit the theme, unless you consider them your Adirondack cabin?) or it's own resort (with more limited amenities).

Dirk

[lenshanem]

DH doesn't remember them as being very big. He stayed in one as a kid. Does anyone know how many bedrooms and baths these things have? Also, any guesses on points per night?

[Daitcher]

As far as the THV being part of SSR....... I still highly doubt that. Even if they were ,how exactly does that help SSR? Will it increase resale value there? Will it help fill the rest of the rooms? NO. It won't do a darn thing other than make DVC more money.

I know I'm in the ninority and that is fine. These THV's won't be viewed anywhere near as highly as some speculate here. This is another DVC miss, IMO. People have clearly shown that at WDW they desire proximity to the parks and having direct access. What do they give us? THV's............ GREAT.:tearsaref

As far as SSR resales. Is anybody really surprised? They sold that place with a "buy here, stay there" tactic. Maybe those buying under that guise found out it isn't all that easy to "stay there". They also way over built the place and overcharged on a per point per night basis and a cost basis. The economy is of course a major player as well right now. I've said this forever and I'll continue saying it, those owning SSR will NEVER be able to sell SSR and get back what they paid. Those selling out will be losing money. I've owned that resort for 5 years now and I still couldn't break even. I don't care if they add 50 THV's. SSR is going to be the first resort where this happens.

So lets see..........DVC takes dicrepid old properties or locations that are out of the way or subprime and make then into DVC Resorts. They in turn, charge top dollar for them. They are geniuses! What that makes those buying these locations I won't say. So given the pattern we might see a new DVC Resort in Arkansas anytime now.........



DAVE

[tomandrobin]

Go to the original post (from Febuary) there are drawings of the villas.

[carolina_yankee]

Tom is referring to this post (http://www.mouseowners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=13006) .

I think the plan shows 3 BRs and 2 Baths on one level. The 80 sf footprint of the new units would eliminate the opportunity to have a bedroom on the lower level.

Point values are questionable - whether it's standalone or part of another resort, 60 units doesn't justify a large pool or significant, if any, food service options. Guests would have to go elsewhere for that. Given that, I think points would be less for similarly sized accommodations elsewhere. Also, I think the 3 BR design only allows for sleeping 6 in the bedrooms (one bed per bedroom ) and maybe 2 more on a pullout. Wouldn't it be nice if the point values were similar to a 2 BR Villa, but give 3 couples their own bedroom?

As far as the THV being part of SSR....... I still highly doubt that. Even if they were ,how exactly does that help SSR? Will it increase resale value there? Will it help fill the rest of the rooms? NO. It won't do a darn thing other than make DVC more money.

I know I'm in the ninority and that is fine. These THV's won't be viewed anywhere near as highly as some speculate here. This is another DVC miss, IMO. People have clearly shown that at WDW they desire proximity to the parks and having direct access. What do they give us? THV's............ GREAT.:tearsaref

As far as SSR resales. Is anybody really surprised? They sold that place with a "buy here, stay there" tactic. Maybe those buying under that guise found out it isn't all that easy to "stay there". They also way over built the place and overcharged on a per point per night basis and a cost basis. The economy is of course a major player as well right now. I've said this forever and I'll continue saying it, those owning SSR will NEVER be able to sell SSR and get back what they paid. Those selling out will be losing money. I've owned that resort for 5 years now and I still couldn't break even. I don't care if they add 50 THV's. SSR is going to be the first resort where this happens.

DAVE



Dave - you may be right about resale value of SSR - at least for a few more years until the initial buy-in at DVC's current offerings are significantly higher. For instance, say BLT comes in at a huge cost and AKV sells out before BLT does - I could see that pushing SSR up a bit.

Personally, I could probably break even on the sale right now, but not recoup interest paid so it would be a loss for me, too.

However, I think you're being too hard on the Tree Houses. They are 60 unites - not very large - they are in a more built up area now so have more to offer than before. They offer an accommodation style that is hard to find elsewhere on property. I'm not thinking they'll be luxury, but that they'll be an 'in-between' offering for people who want space but not at the $$$ cost of the larger DVC rooms.

I think whoever gets to offer them will probably be satisfied with their occupancy rate.

Dirk

[Daitcher]

If they do it right, it will probably be as good or better than the bug infested swamp land that's Fort Wilderness. :tongue:

Dirk




They won't be able to do much. They are dealing with wetlands thus the reason they are using the same footprint as the original THV's.

No, make no mistake, these WILL be the bug infested swamp holes I anticipate. Rooms may be nice but they rest including location is a stinker.

Just wait until they try to sell these. Those owning SSR (if they add the THV's ) will simply use the points they already own to book them. Nobody in their right mind is going to buy SSR with the idea of using those points at the THV. Yes, lets buy SSR with it's resale value of $80 and pay Disney $104 +.......

I can see it now: : "Come experience the magic of Disney's newest project the THV's. For a mere "$104 per point you can get exclusive access to the THV's as well as the spectacle that is Disney's SSR." "You also get boat access to DTD where we have recently announced the closure of Pleasure Island." " You also get a camping type experince at the THV's complete with moth sized mosquitos and the world famous No see-ums." "Remember, you can buy these babies and stay at BCV whenever you want.":burningma


DAVE

[lenshanem]

OK. DH and I argued over the possible point per night for one of these last night. He said he thought it would be similar to a two bedroom and I thought they would be more. Maybe he'll be right instead of me. :help:

[lenshanem]

Is there a pool there???

[SEDCrockett]

It won't do a darn thing other than make DVC more money.


Dave - you make a number of good points regarding SSR resale value, etc. Unfortunately, the owners are the ones that care most about that, while DVC's chief concern is making more money as you said.

Look at it from their POV - Why not rehab the Treehouse area?
They've got the land as it's part of SSR which before now wasn't generating any revenue with the THs in disrepair and used as CM housing,

They're building modular so it goes up quicker and cheaper,

It's already got a pool,

They can piggyback off the SSR infrastructure (check-in, restaurant service, community hall, feature pool, etc.),

They can piggyback off the established transportation system (bus routes, boat routes to DTD & other resorts),

They can have something else in addition to AKV & OKW 2057 to sell if BLT sells out quick or just have another type of accomodation to market to larger families (As Dirk mentioned - an "in-between" type of villa - less than a GV, more than a 2BR).

To my mind, if you look at it from DVC's angle it makes a lot of sense - low risk (low cost relatively speaking), high reward (more contracts sold).

Just my $0.02.

Crockett

[SEDCrockett]

Is there a pool there???

Yes there is a pool there. Small one so it would have to be a quiet pool unless they refurbish it to make it larger.

[Daitcher]

Dave - you make a number of good points regarding SSR resale value, etc. Unfortunately, the owners are the ones that care most about that, while DVC's chief concern is making more money as you said.

Look at it from their POV - Why not rehab the Treehouse area?
They've got the land as it's part of SSR which before now wasn't generating any revenue with the THs in disrepair and used as CM housing,

They're building modular so it goes up quicker and cheaper,

It's already got a pool,

They can piggyback off the SSR infrastructure (check-in, restaurant service, community hall, feature pool, etc.),

They can piggyback off the established transportation system (bus routes, boat routes to DTD & other resorts),

They can have something else in addition to AKV & OKW 2057 to sell if BLT sells out quick or just have another type of accomodation to market to larger families (As Dirk mentioned - an "in-between" type of villa - less than a GV, more than a 2BR).

To my mind, if you look at it from DVC's angle it makes a lot of sense - low risk (low cost relatively speaking), high reward (more contracts sold).

Just my $0.02.

Crockett




Oh, we aren't disagreeing with any of this. I even said in one of my posts here that DVC is genius. They are rehabbing soemthing with our money, it is genius.

Sorry but I'd like to see one project done with the membership and DVC's pockets in mind. The first one recently will be CRV. It does appeal to many and location is superb. They listened to some degree to the memberhsip wanting a monorail location. They listened to that and took a tired old resort, CRV, with low occupancy rates and made a DVC. Now that is genius.

I'm coming accross as grumpy here I know. You know what I am a little grumpy when DVC makes moves solely in their best interest. IMO, you can do both, please us and them. Sorry but the THV's rehab doesn't do it for me.


DAVE

[tomandrobin]

The whole tree house renovation/replacement is an oddity. If its CRO, then why not finish the Pop Century Resort. Half of it is just sitting over there waiting to be finished. If its DVC, it doesn't really fit in to SSR or OKW, or any of the other DVC resorts fo rthat matter. So maybe it will be a stand alone resort.

But what ever way the resort turns out, it will be a very bleak, isolated resort. Very limited amenities, no community hall, no counter service, no table service, no feature pool and gift shop (everything at Disney has a gift shop). The only draw I see to the Tree Houses is solitude and nature (wether that is good or bad). Where are they going to put the refillable mug coffee station?

[NYDVC]

generally, all additional options is a plus for DVC's in my opinion. and lack of gift shop is a plus to me :o.


I would have to believe if it is included with SSR or OKW, they would need to provide some sort of internal buss to get to other areas of the resorts.

[BWV Dreamin]

Exactly correct and this is why BCV is far superior to SSR. It isn't superior because I say so or you say so, it is superior because the buyers say so. It speaks volumes that buyers will pay, in some cases, $20 more per point for 15years less usage.

We better start a new thread if I get started on these new THV and the long term value of those as a stand alone resort.........



DAVE

I just don't get the whole treehouse thing! What is supposed to be so great about them? Do you have to climb up to get in them?

[Daitcher]

I just don't get the whole treehouse thing! What is supposed to be so great about them? Do you have to climb up to get in them?



There is nothing great about them. People all happy about these things are either so out of nostalgia or out of a desperate attempt to incorporate them into SSR.

This deep croaker thing about a battle over them with CRO and DVC is crap, IMO. Battle? Over what? The THV were a flop when they were new. They couldn't even fill them. Now because they call them a DVC resort I'm supposed to be excited? I'm not.


DAVE

[Disneyracingfan]

I would like to see THV part of SSR not for any resale value or cheeper points but because I own at SSR and would stay there. If it becomes its own DVC I would be more likely to buy points for them than I would for BLT. I love the parks but I do not have to be on top of them when I'm not in them. I am never in a rush at WDW because I know I will be back time and time again. To me THV could have mesquitoes the size of Huey helicopters and it would be fine, that's just part of being in the woods. I find SSR on a whole relaxing being spread out and THV would add to that out of the way but still close feel. I also don't mind walking 5 miles to get somewhere, I walk more than that everyday on the farm. I Drive 8 hours to camp at Whiteface Mt. at least twice a year. But hey what do I know I like to sit in a tree with a bow and arrow from October till January (some of the best sleep I get is in the woods).

[Daitcher]

I would like to see THV part of SSR not for any resale value or cheeper points but because I own at SSR and would stay there. If it becomes its own DVC I would be more likely to buy points for them than I would for BLT. I love the parks but I do not have to be on top of them when I'm not in them. I am never in a rush at WDW because I know I will be back time and time again. To me THV could have mesquitoes the size of Huey helicopters and it would be fine, that's just part of being in the woods. I find SSR on a whole relaxing being spread out and THV would add to that out of the way but still close feel. I also don't mind walking 5 miles to get somewhere, I walk more than that everyday on the farm. I Drive 8 hours to camp at Whiteface Mt. at least twice a year. But hey what do I know I like to sit in a tree with a bow and arrow from October till January (some of the best sleep I get is in the woods).



Weird living in Long Island with those likes????????

Different strokes for different folks and DVC does provide that to some degree. The question remains not what you or I like, it is whether or not there is enough demand for the the THV's. We'll see.


DAVE

[BWV Dreamin]

When I go to Florida, I want to be reminded of some type of beach theme. I have lots of woods around me at home, I would not want to PAY to stay in the woods. JMHO. I also want to have some deluxe level of accomodations while on vacation. A tree house just won't do it for me. But like Dave said, build it DVC and all of a sudden its a must have! :3dglasses

[Disneyracingfan]

Weird living in Long Island with those likes????????

Different strokes for different folks and DVC does provide that to some degree. The question remains not what you or I like, it is whether or not there is enough demand for the the THV's. We'll see.


DAVE

Some, not much, of Long Island is still country, mostly sod farms now. We grow corn and pumpkins mostly. We're fightin' hard to keep it. It's funny actually to annoy the people driving to the as they call it "east end". I'll do 5 mph in a tractor in front of them coming back from fueling it up, Lots of them tell me I'm number one.......:wearenumb different finger though.

I live about 20 Mins. from the Famous Dune Road in the Hamptons, some of the nicest beaches anywhere, and I haven't been to the beach in 15 years. But like you said Differnt strokes for differnent folks....and I'm about as "different" as it gets.:blech:

[Daitcher]

Some, not much, of Long Island is still country, mostly sod farms now. We grow corn and pumpkins mostly. We're fightin' hard to keep it. It's funny actually to annoy the people driving to the as they call it "east end". I'll do 5 mph in a tractor in front of them coming back from fueling it up, Lots of them tell me I'm number one.......:wearenumb different finger though.

I live about 20 Mins. from the Famous Dune Road in the Hamptons, some of the nicest beaches anywhere, and I haven't been to the beach in 15 years. But like you said Differnt strokes for differnent folks....and I'm about as "different" as it gets.:blech:



Sounds interesting.

Different isn't bad by the way!


DAVE

[rantnnravin]

When I go to Florida, I want to be reminded of some type of beach theme. I have lots of woods around me at home, I would not want to PAY to stay in the woods. JMHO. I also want to have some deluxe level of accomodations while on vacation. A tree house just won't do it for me. But like Dave said, build it DVC and all of a sudden its a must have! :3dglasses

that's so funny. staying in the woods is a change of pace for us - we practically live at the beach year 'round - especially since DH's family owns beach houses on fire island.
so staying at a fake beach doesn't really have much appeal or "wow" factor for us.
different strokes indeed!:)

[BWV Dreamin]

that's so funny. staying in the woods is a change of pace for us - we practically live at the beach year 'round - especially since DH's family owns beach houses on fire island.
so staying at a fake beach doesn't really have much appeal or "wow" factor for us.
different strokes indeed!:)

Ha! Yes, fake beaches they are at all of the WDW resorts!! However, I bought points at a REAL BEACH-Vero Beach Resort. So at least some of my Florida visits are at real beaches! I can see where some of the resorts theming will appeal to those who don't have that where they live. Fortunately, Maryland has beaches, woods, mountains, skiing(or close by skiing in PA) and unfortunately high taxes! It just doesn't have Disney!!:goodvibes

[tomandrobin]

Ha! Yes, fake beaches they are at all of the WDW resorts!! However, I bought points at a REAL BEACH-Vero Beach Resort. So at least some of my Florida visits are at real beaches! I can see where some of the resorts theming will appeal to those who don't have that where they live. Fortunately, Maryland has beaches, woods, mountains, skiing(or close by skiing in PA) and unfortunately high taxes! It just doesn't have Disney!!:goodvibes

But we do have Hershey, Six Flags! and crabs

[Daitcher]

But we do have Hershey, Six Flags! and crabs



You better believe it! Love those crabcakes.




DAVE

[tomandrobin]

Ok, how does one in Texas get Maryland Crab Cakes? :headscrat

[Daitcher]

Ok, how does one in Texas get Maryland Crab Cakes? :headscrat


I was an East coaster (Saratoga Springs, NY) for 35 years. Lots of Maine seafood up there as well as stuff from Maryland. I'd always make a stop in Maryland on the way to Virginia Beach (Sandbridge Beach, VA, specifically).


DAVE

[JimP]

There is nothing great about them. People all happy about these things are either so out of nostalgia or out of a desperate attempt to incorporate them into SSR.

This deep croaker thing about a battle over them with CRO and DVC is crap, IMO. Battle? Over what? The THV were a flop when they were new. They couldn't even fill them. Now because they call them a DVC resort I'm supposed to be excited? I'm not.


DAVE

I am on the "DAVE" side of the fence on this one. I might stay in the THVs once (or maybe 1 night) just for the retro experience... but it does not have a lot of appeal to me. I do not particularly want to stay in the old Fleetwood trailers at FW either.

I believe that those who think these would be in the "GV" catagory are over estimating the experience. I suspect they would be "priced" similar to a 2BR unit... but for many they would probably have the "value" of a 1BR unit.

/Jim

[rantnnravin]

I'm guessing that the value of the THVs, for many, is in their seclusion. Not only are they removed from the parks - which, believe it or not, some people like to be away from the parks when they leave the parks for the day. In addition, Some people actually buy DVC for the "Home away from Home" experience. If they didn't, Owner's Locker probably would go under. Furthermore, people may actually like having their own private accommodations - no yelling/running/crying/screaming kids in the hallway/in the room next door/above you. And, get this, some parents may actually enjoy not having to worry about their more rambunctious children disturbing others.
They would just provide a different option - a different kind of experience.
I'm all for DVC diversifying the experiences - just so long as there are booking categories reflecting all of the different experiences that can be had at SSR.

[BWV Dreamin]

Ok, how does one in Texas get Maryland Crab Cakes? :headscrat

Ha! Actually G&M Restaraunt will mail out crab cakes, ready to fry. Did you take any Old Bay back to Texas with you Dave? :)

[Blue&Gold]

I do not particularly want to stay in the old Fleetwood trailers at FW either.

Jim---They are installing new buildings... It's not like you are going to have to take the Andy Gibb LP off the "record player." (My kids wouldn't have the slightest idea what any of that means...)

[Gaston]

Are all the units going to be 2 bedrooms?

[tomandrobin]

They are three bedroom units.

[Daitcher]

Ha! Actually G&M Restaraunt will mail out crab cakes, ready to fry. Did you take any Old Bay back to Texas with you Dave? :)



Actually I do have some Old Bay seasoning. I do also get Maryland Crabcakes from Omaha Steaks here delivered to the house.



DAVE

[disneyfreak89]

I love the parks but I do not have to be on top of them when I'm not in them. I am never in a rush at WDW because I know I will be back time and time again. To me THV could have mesquitoes the size of Huey helicopters and it would be fine, that's just part of being in the woods. I find SSR on a whole relaxing being spread out and THV would add to that out of the way but still close feel.....

:iagree: The treehouses is just another experience offered by Disney. Each DVC resort has its own appeal, own uniqueness...BCV has SOB and BWV has the boardwalk, OKW for the Key West motif, VWL for the rustic ambience, AKV for the savannas and SSR for.....I think the THV's would be a nice addition to SSR (since we've never been to the 'real' Saratoga Springs, how would we know that the THV's don't belong?)....they would be a nice diversion if you want to experience the 'solitude' of being away from other people and the parks, having your very own stand alone unit and enjoying the outdoors.

There is nothing great about them.

And yet when we stayed at POR several years ago and took the boat to DTD everyday, EVER SINGLE TIME someone asked the 'skipper' about those neat looking treehouses we passed and if it was possible to stay there and that was just OUR experience....

I agree with Jim to some extent, that I think there is enough appeal that people will want to stay there and experience it at least ONCE, since it offers a different 'style' of accommodation.

[Daitcher]

[QUOTE=disneyfreak89;167248 And yet when we stayed at POR several years ago and took the boat to DTD everyday, EVER SINGLE TIME someone asked the 'skipper' about those neat looking treehouses we passed and if it was possible to stay there and that was just OUR experience....

I agree with Jim to some extent, that I think there is enough appeal that people will want to stay there and experience it at least ONCE, since it offers a different 'style' of accommodation.[/QUOTE]



Sure some people will want to try them out. Some people will no doubt love them. My question is , Will there be enough demand if these are added to SSR or will they just be seen as another undesirable location at SSR.

Stand alone, I don't care what happens with them. DVC will find out in a quick hurry how hard it will be to sell them.


DAVE

[NYDVC]

Sure some people will want to try them out. Some people will no doubt love them. My question is , Will there be enough demand if these are added to SSR or will they just be seen as another undesirable location at SSR.

Stand alone, I don't care what happens with them. DVC will find out in a quick hurry how hard it will be to sell them.


DAVE

That may be why they attach it to SSR. NOT stand alone. so the option really does not change. its just SSr with one additional category. I dont see them selling that small a set of units as a new DVC.

[tomandrobin]

That may be why they attach it to SSR. NOT stand alone. so the option really does not change. its just SSr with one additional category. I dont see them selling that small a set of units as a new DVC.

If the Tree Houses are DVC, they will be attached to SSR or OKW. Given the number of units and the fact that they are all three bedrooms, would doom it as a standalone DVC.

If it goes to CRO, I would think that the lack of amenities and all the units being three bedroom will hurt it, unless they price it between a value and moderate resort. It can not be a moderate without a table service restaurant. But since it can sleep 6-8, it would make a great "family" value resort.

[Daitcher]

That may be why they attach it to SSR. NOT stand alone. so the option really does not change. its just SSr with one additional category. I dont see them selling that small a set of units as a new DVC.



I ranted a while back that these would never become part of SSR. Now I'm not so sure. Does the THV's even have the proper infrastructure on their own to become a DVC Resort?

I still don't get how they will theme this? My only guess is to somehow tie them into an Adirondack Mountains theme. Either way I don't care really. It doesn't interest me a bit even for one stay. My hope is that if it is added to SSR that it somehow increases overall demand for that resort.


DAVE

[NYDVC]

I ranted a while back that these would never become part of SSR. Now I'm not so sure. Does the THV's even have the proper infrastructure on their own to become a DVC Resort?

I still don't get how they will theme this? My only guess is to somehow tie them into an Adirondack Mountains theme. Either way I don't care really. It doesn't interest me a bit even for one stay. My hope is that if it is added to SSR that it somehow increases overall demand for that resort.


DAVE

Adirondack's makes sense, my brother stayed with us and is from that area, and laughed at the resorts "theme". In his opinion it was nothing like Saratoga. I certainly got a sense/flavor of upstate, but it was generic. so Generic wood treehouse would equal SSR theming IMO.

He was very bothered that no of the pools had "spit and spat". Frogs were not appropriate in his mind. Actually a "spit and spat does make sense, dont know why they did not put it in.

I love my brother, but considering he was "invited" it was a little (and I stress little) rude of him. :lmbo:

[Daitcher]

Adirondack's makes sense, my brother stayed with us and is from that area, and laughed at the resorts "theme". In his opinion it was nothing like Saratoga. I certainly got a sense/flavor of upstate, but it was generic. so Generic wood treehouse would equal SSR theming IMO.

He was very bothered that no of the pools had "spit and spat". Frogs were not appropriate in his mind. Actually a "spit and spat does make sense, dont know why they did not put it in.

I love my brother, but considering he was "invited" it was a little (and I stress little) rude of him. :lmbo:



He is right about the theming. It is a joke. Naming a few of the roads the same names and plunking horse pictures around doesn't make a theme. You could take 1000 people through that resort and without a few horse refernces they would never know what the theme is. You go the VWL and you come up with a logical guess immediately.

Brings back memories to when I was living in Saratoga Springs. They brought the mayor and some other high ranking public officials down for the "Grand Opening" of SSR. When they returned they were asked if it reminded them of the real Saratoga. There was this long pause and then they said something to the effect that it was a Disney Resort. They went on the encourage folks to see the real thing. Talk about underwhelming responses.

Tomandrobin might be on to something. A value family resort. The lack of amenities might not bother those looking for larger rooms at discounted "prices".


DAVE

[tinker_me_happy]

What ever they turn out to be I know my boys would love to stay in them. They love the woods and outdoors stuff! And they don't mind bugs! For ME I'd rather a bit more pampering, but would love one trip in the treehouses as something different. Logistics of it all does sound daunting though.

[tinker_me_happy]

Theme Idea: Ewok Village?????

[cincinmouse]

Tomandrobin might be on to something. A value family resort. The lack of amenities might not bother those looking for larger rooms at discounted "prices".


DAVE
The family suites at Music have been quite popular.
Below are the CRO rate for SSR and the Family Suites over at All Star Music. Since the Treehouses are 3-bedrooms and occupancy for at least 6 and up to 8-9 depending on sleeper sofa and sleeper chair and is closer to a 2bedroom from a capacity standpoint. Comparing summer family suite rate of 250/night to Regular SSR 2bedroom $630/night there is a lot of room to increase the pricing and still make it beneficial from a CRO standpoint.
I see more negatives than positives for the THV becuase I see it as a drain on SSR resources(pool, dinning, etc) whether it be DVC or CRO. But if THV is going to use SSR resources I would rather have it DVC since it would add to the dues.



All Star Family Suite 1 bed w/ queen, sleeper sofa, and 2 sleeper chairs
(sleeps 6)
Value_______Regular_____Summer______Peak________Ho liday,
$184/wkday, $220/wkday, $250/wkday, $275/wkday, $295/wkday,
$184/wkend, $240/wkend, $270/wkend, $295/wkend, $315/wkend,


SSR Value Regular Peak Holiday
Studio $285 $315 $370 $410
1BR Villa $380 $430 $500 $575
2BR Villa $530 $630 $765 $875

[janet1106]

Hi, We were staying at the OKW during the middle of May this year, when we took the boat to DTD. We actually saw them tearing down one of the tree houses. It took them several days to remove all the wood. I was wondering if they are going to tear them all down? We were told they use the current ones for housekeeping supplies. We will be back in Sept. and will check out the progress.. Janet, member since 1995

[NYDVC]

Hi, We were staying at the OKW during the middle of May this year, when we took the boat to DTD. We actually saw them tearing down one of the tree houses. It took them several days to remove all the wood. I was wondering if they are going to tear them all down? We were told they use the current ones for housekeeping supplies. We will be back in Sept. and will check out the progress.. Janet, member since 1995

thanks Janet, that woud be great and welcome to Mouse Owners, great bunch of people here if I do say so myself !!!:Pssst:

:jumpingbe:welcome::jumpingbe

[ReneeandLori1226]

When DP and I were leave SSR last week and heading to DHS after taking the tour and purchasing DVC we were stuck in traffic. The driver of our van who’s name I will not revile told us that we would be sitting in a little traffic due to the Tree Houses. This man then went on to tell us about the old Tree Houses and how Disney let them fall to the wayside. He also told us that these new Tree Houses would be part of DVC!

[TinkLover]

I certainly hope so, I'd love to stay there at some point

[Daitcher]

He also told us that these new Tree Houses would be part of DVC!




Wow, if that is true Disney/DVC has sunk even lower than I anticipated. Good luck to them selling that place! For every person that says they'd "love to stay there " there are hundreds of others with no interest whatsoever. Count me into the no interest group. Also, even those that wat to try it how many of those people would pony up hard earned cash for that bug infested poor located resort with little or no amenities?

DVC has gone into a dangerous mode. They are now simply looking to use DVC sales to refurb any dilapidated structures ala CR and THV's or to boost occupancy rates at low demand resorts like AKL. They want us to pay for their mistakes. Sorry I'm not doing that DVC.

Here's a novel idea DVC: Why not take high demand locations and build something truly worthy of that location and watch sales fly out the door? Also make that resort in a prime, theme park based location the biggest resort in the system. NAHHHHHHHH, why do that? That would make too much sense......................



DAVE

[NYDVC]

Wow, if that is true Disney/DVC has sunk even lower than I anticipated. Good luck to them selling that place! For every person that says they'd "love to stay there " there are hundreds of others with no interest whatsoever. Count me into the no interest group. Also, even those that wat to try it how many of those people would pony up hard earned cash for that bug infested poor located resort with little or no amenities?

DVC has gone into a dangerous mode. They are now simply looking to use DVC sales to refurb any dilapidated structures ala CR and THV's or to boost occupancy rates at low demand resorts like AKL. They want us to pay for their mistakes. Sorry I'm not doing that DVC.

Here's a novel idea DVC: Why not take high demand locations and build something truly worthy of that location and watch sales fly out the door? Also make that resort in a prime, theme park based location the biggest resort in the system. NAHHHHHHHH, why do that? That would make too much sense......................



DAVE

I would argue, they are dong both. The sandwich is a great location and as long as they keep the price reasonable, ownership will fly out the door. THV are small and will apeal to some with the OPTION of doing the sandwich also, THV will sell. SSR is almost sold out so I dont see why THV will not also. will take longer but they will get there and has the advantage of increasing options to everyone. Now instead of just SSR available for late bookings I will have SSR, AKV, and THV's. Atleast it wont be just SSR.