Lots of good info in this thread, especially the link to Million Mile Secrets - great blog. Thanks to all.
Did the double browser trick for my gf (50k x 2), she was instantly approved for both. However, I was eventually denied due to "too many recent inquiries". Within the last few weeks:
Chase Sapphire 50k: approved
US Airways 40k: approved
AMEX SPG : declined, need to call
*also financed a new car, so that was 1-2 hits
I called the Citi reconsideration line (Philippines, I'm guessing..) and responded by saying I use this cards mostly for business and will start to fly AA more for business (both true). Still a no go. Obviously I'm calling separately for both the Visa and AMEX, but I'm wondering if I should keep calling or just wait a couple of months to try again if the deal is still around?
I hear Citi is tough for reconsideration. I have no cards with Citi yet aproxx. 22K in lines at Chase....give me something, Citi!