its the only way I go. MOST props will NOT allow you to make a res in advance even that same day(night).
If they get about 80% full they usually will NOT honor the coupon except if its late at night and they arent the only ones in town.
Ive ALWAYS got my HH credit and SPGs also.
Ive checked-in where the person B4 me just paid close to $100 more than me. Also most props will take 1 coupon per night with a limit of 1 room per person but then again each prop will bend the rules when its in their benefit and they are loaded with rooms. Ive had some even book me when I was on the phone to make sure they didnt lose it.
the best way to go is call at least a day ahead and just ask how the rooms look for tommorrow night, they usually will tell you if you have a good shot at it ( like the airlines when we call to see what it looks like for the load factor to see if a bump or a row to sleep in will be in thge cards),