Disney Launches New Business to Develop Residential Communities

Attachment 5917
Disney Launches New Business to Develop Residential Communities

Storyliving by Disney will feature distinctively designed spaces, unique amenities and world-renowned service. First community to be developed in Rancho Mirage, Calif.; additional U.S. locations under exploration. All will cater to those looking to write next chapter of their lives with Disney

BURBANK, Calif. (Feb. 16, 2022) – As more and more fans look for new ways to make Disney a bigger part of their lives, the company today announced plans to introduce Storyliving by Disney, vibrant new neighborhoods that are infused with the company’s special brand of magic. These master-planned communities are intended to inspire residents to foster new friendships, pursue their interests and write the next exciting chapter in their lives—all while enjoying the attention to detail, unique amenities and special touches that are Disney hallmarks.

The first Storyliving by Disney community will be built in Rancho Mirage, in California’s Coachella Valley—a location where Walt Disney himself owned a home and would spend leisure time with his family. Additional locations in the U.S. are under exploration for future development.

“For nearly 100 years, Disney has shared stories that have touched the hearts and minds of people all around the world,” said Josh D’Amaro, chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. “As we prepare to enter our second century, we are developing new and exciting ways to bring the magic of Disney to people wherever they are, expanding storytelling to storyliving. We can’t wait to welcome residents to these beautiful and unique Disney communities where they can live their lives to the fullest.”

At each location, including some neighborhoods for residents ages 55+, Disney Cast Members trained in the company’s legendary guest service will operate the community association. Through a club membership, Disney will also provide access to curated experiences, such as wellness programming; entertainment ranging from live performances to cooking classes; philanthropic endeavors; seminars and much more.




This material contains general information about future proposed community plans which are subject to change or cancellation at any time without notice.  Club membership, programming, and access and use of future proposed amenities and offerings, will require the payment of dues and/or fees and be subject to additional terms and conditions, which will be set by the owner of the club. Availability of club membership and operation of club facilities are not guaranteed. Disney is not the developer of Cotino, a Storyliving by Disney community or the builder or seller of homes within Storyliving by Disney communities. The parties developing, and building homes in, Storyliving by Disney communities are independently owned and operated. This does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation to buy, real estate to residents of any state or jurisdiction where prohibited by law, or where prior registration is required, but has not yet been fulfilled.  Equal Housing Opportunity. Broker participation welcome.  See storylivingbydisney.com for full details.  [Page Pierce, DRE License No. 02161670]

What do you all think? I wanted to hate this idea but the more I thought about it - isn't this sort of what EPCOT was about and part of Walt's vision?

I would LIKE to like this idea, but for some reason I just can't get over the thought that it is a glorified DVC 'offering.' Maybe because I am just jealous that I could never afford the 'membership' fees, let alone the home price. I guess I'll have to hold off until more info is availabe on initial pricing and HOA/Membership 'fees.'

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Originally Posted by John

What do you all think? I wanted to hate this idea but the more I thought about it - isn't this sort of what EPCOT was about and part of Walt's vision?

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That is exactly what I thought too. It does sound an awful lot like the original EPCOT vision. To be honest, I expect it to have the same outcome. I really think Disney is stepping outside their wheelhouse on this one. The only way I see this being successful is if it is more of a "retirement community" rather than subdivisions with a Disney theme. At the end of the day, when it comes to homes now, average Americans are notorious for buying the cheapest house that has the looks inside and out without focusing enough on the quality of the build and materials. That is why we have so many large scale corporate homebuilders now.

Seems like another shot at what “Celebration” was supposed to be!

Go watch the video by Brandon on "Mickey Views" at YouTube.

I want to like this idea also, but I can't. I've seen how they have run the parks the wrong way. I don't want them having control over my house.

Another person here who wants to like the idea, but it just seems.... weird. Getting into the housing market and HOAs and wellness centers is so entirely different than what they do now. I think they excel at delivering the magic at their parks and resorts. If something goes wrong there's always an opportunity to make it right, even for short stays. But claiming you can deliver the magic in a permanent home situation? That just sounds disastrous. We've all heard nightmare HOA stories. No doubt it will be out of the average person's reach to buy into and if someone feels Disney's planned community isn't delivering, can you imagine? Sorry, I'm not usually negative, especially with ideas for things that we don't even know how they'll play out, but this just sounds like a bad one. It will be interesting to see if they move forward with this, or if they expand beyond the original location.