Originally Posted by lowfareair

I'm assuming you're referring to "If there is a rate available on a Choice branded website that is the same or lower than the Competing Rate, that rate will be offered for the entire Booking and you will not be eligible to receive the first night free." in the terms and conditions.

The rate I booked was refundable, and while there was an advance purchase rate on choicehotels.com for about 20% less than the rate I booked, it was still higher than the competing rate, so it does not have to be considered.