Thanks for the help. It's strange that I looked last night on my computer, I could see seat maps but they were just generic ones and not ones that showed availability. Today when I look on my tablet, i see availability maps. I must have done something wrong.
I can't understand why AC doesn't show the price of preferred seats during the booking process. The availability map would be the ideal time and place for that.
And finally, yes, I'm aware that I can cancel within 24 hours but I'd prefer not to go through the hassle. Once AC has your money, I've found it extremely difficult to pry it back from their hands.
Thanks again.