We always stay on property at WDW but find that the DL hotel properties are not only very expensive, but don't really provide that much in the way of extra conveniences with respect to proximity to the parks. We prefer to stay in a property that is nearly across the street from the main entrance--there are about 6-7 hotels that are close walking distance across from the main entrance. Our go-to place to stay is the Park Vue Inn, which is directly across the street from the entrance. Super easy to just walk across the street and you are there. No fancy bells and whistles, but it is clean and has a decent free breakfast every morning. We spend so little time in the hotel it just does not make sense to spend $500-$600 a night to stay on property -- it's a matter of bang for your buck for us.