Congrats. I think 2-Bedrooms are the "most-likely" to come by at the 7-month mark. And even more so in January, if you are after holiday season and avoid the MLK holiday weekend.
1) Go to Disneyland.com and try your WDW login and see if it allows you to login. They have been synching some of the features and systems lately, so the DL side looks more like the WDW side (but not there, yet). If you can't login, create a new account at Disneyland.com.
2) Download the Disneyland App, and login using the same account.
3) Yes, you can link your DVC reservation now. They added this feature when the Park Pass system was released, for reopening. After you login above, give it a try (on website only at last check, not on the App yet). If you just booked, there may be a lag (but I don't think there is).
4) Linking your reservation will allow you to book your Park Passes from the "Disney Hotel Bucket", just like WDW (IF DL still has reservations by then-- likely they will). Although you are planning so far out, you won't have any problems with Park Passes. But, if you want to make changes to your Park days down the road, it could help to have that hotel bucket. *note, just like WDW, you need Park tickets linked to your account to make Park Passes.
5) Draft your room requests and email them to Member Services. Search this forum for
@Nonsuch, who made great maps of the VGC wing. You can add those 2-Bedroom numbers to your request. The trees have grown up alot and taken some of the views, unfortunately. But they are pretty.
6) No magic bands or App room keys, yet. You will use the App for park tickets, mobile orders and Fastpass/Maxpass (if available then); credit card for table service, and a plastic key for the room (and Early Entry, if available then). You can add charging ability to room keys. Screen shot your member card for DVC discount. *Things can change in six months time. Maybe we will see more integration.
7) Order groceries at Pavilions.com (or
Amazon Prime Now). We prefer Pavilions currently; look for code for $20 off and free delivery first order. If alcohol in order, you need to be there to sign for it. If not, you can delivery it before your arrival and the bellhop will put in storage. Same as WDW. Bring or buy basket filters and coffee grounds for coffee maker.
8) Craftsman Grill has some DVC items (milk, snacks, etc.) But, no substitute for groceries above. VGC souvenirs are in the main hotel giftshop.
9) In the past the standing advice, especially coming from DVC wing, was to go through DTD to the main gates of DCA in the morning; as it was faster than the GCH entrance to DCA. Recent reports suggest that may not be true right now, but it's early. I would look/ask for reports closer to your trip, for current info.
10) The 2-BR are REALLY nice and a big improvement over most 2-BR at WDW. You will have a lot of fire-power getting ready in the morning with 3 dedicated bathrooms, a full-size dining table (not a round after-thought table), kitchen island, AND a bar with more stools. Plan accordingly if you have a big group. An easy breakfast set out on the island/table while people are getting ready is an UNREAL time and money saver! Start the dishwasher and off to the Parks. *again, plan your groceries above.
Hope that's a good start.
Have fun!
Edit: Removed a blocked link