I would have to say that I have always thought that MVCI stays have been a very good use of points. A lot of the MVCI properties are next to a Marriott resort hotel. Given that a 1-bedroom suite usually costs less points than a hotel room at the resort that is next door and we usually get full use of the resort amenities, MVCI awards are well worth their price. Unfortunately, as you mention, Marriott has very limited control of their inventory and as such, quite often it can be a challenge to find award availability.