I have noticed on a couple occasions (which of course by itself does not a trend make) when using Priceline to bid in a high cost area (I know, evil word) that certain hotels seem to be accepted at lower rates during renos than at any other times. For example, I received a very low acceptance bid at the Sheraton Honolulu during their reno's a number of years ago, which was accepted well in advance of the travel dates. Perhaps they use the opaque sites to clear more inventory in this case. Other factors may well have been at play of course.