Originally Posted by
mahasamatman
I find it's always better to apply for BRG before booking. That way you know for sure if they're going to try to use a loophole to deny you.
The SPG BRG team has always been excellent and I have always had my BRG claim approved promptly. And yes, always wait to book the reservation on SPG.com only AFTER the rate has been approved. Another good tip is that when you do book, make sure you select a refundable rate so you are not billed until you check out. The amount of the rate you pick on SPG.com does not matter because it is adjusted to the BRG rate manually by the BRG team. You can either select an additional 10% off the competing rate or 2,000 Starpoints. I pick Starpoints unless the 10% discount exceeds $50 in total for my stay.