Originally Posted by
Often1
OP - I would start by calling the sales managers at the relevant properties. Everything is a negotiation and it is possible that you may be able to cut some kind of a deal if you (with a counter-signature from your employer) are prepared to sign a contract for the approx. 250 nights involved.
The key is to look at:
1. NC law on taxes (many states do not tax 30+ night stays, although query whether 5 nights/week qualifies. It may be cheaper to simply book the year.
2. Status. Do you want points or status or both. You may be able to cut a simple deal for points + status (although you may get a better rate without points).
3. F&B / Laundry / Incidentals - You may be able to cut a deal for a restaurant credit, laundry, internet, lounge and other items. Presuming that these are all business expenses, the $150 / night for hotel may be less meaningful.
Do you really want to live 5 nights/week at a Westin? For the amounts you are talking, e.g. $37,500, you can likely find a luxury furnished apartment in an upscale complex, along with maid service and the trappings.
The state laws that I know about tax exemption for longer stays require a stay or 30 days or more in the same room; if you even switch rooms for some reason, the count starts again. You must also sign a lease with an advance notification period for moving out so that the stay looks more like an apartment rental. Checking in and out every week wouldn't count.
However, just doing a continuous stay and spending a few weekend nights elsewhere might well be cost effective. It would also be convenient to be able to leave items in the room, etc.
Note that SPG gives ABSOLUTELY NO POINTS and ABSOLUTELY NO NIGHTS/STAY CREDIT if a single stay, as defined by SPG, exceeds either three months or ninety days by even a single night. Points/nights will be removed retroactively from day one. Some people here have been caught by this rule.
Hence, if the OP goes for the tax exemption, there would need to be a move out for at least one night (and a new contract) every twelve weeks or so.