Agree that , especially with refreshing of HI proprieties, some of the better HI's are better than the lower level CP's.
Brand definition pertains to all customers (actual and potential) not just points collectors so would not put PC related things high on the list. The most important thing I'd look for is consistency in hard product standards - minimum room size, decor, in room and property amenities. The penchant for IHG to buy existing properties and flip them to the CP flag sometimes results in preterites in less than great locations; maybe think about that, too.