yes YMMV
Dorian,
Yes mileage will vary, and that's why I.I. and several other exchange companies are in the mix. All will have their own rules, quirks, upsides and downsides that you have to know about and accomodate in order to get to where you want to go. About the only way you can insure you will get to a high-end property you want to go to routinely, is to buy at it -- and that may be a good a reason as any, for the adage to buy at a resort you want and can travel to. ...but then you'll have to follow the rules/quirks peculiar to that resort or resort group.
Far be it from me to defend RCI, especially in light of this latest "enhancement" that involves their website. I guess I am less forgiving and have higher expectations than RCI's management when it comes to info tech, web support, customer service, etc. -- since after all, they are the direct links and lifeline to their customer base.
Now having said all the previous, we've always been able to exchange into where we wanted to go; even if we had to jump through RCI's website shortcomings (i.e. hoops), to do it. We've got numerous weeks scheduled out over the next 2 years, and plan on a couple last-calls over the holidays. [We plan our weeks and points vacations well ahead for serious stuff, and less for not so important trips. We are also very flexible in where/how/when we can travel.]
By the way, I'm very familiar with the Hastings, MN and Prescot, WI area. My wife and I spent several years growing up there, especially on the St. Croix and Kinnikinnick Rivers.
Keep doing the homework!