I have used Priceline on several occasions now, and have never been disappointed. It saved us a very considerable sum in Seattle last August, and at both Heathrow and Gatwick throughout the year.
Far from getting poor rooms we have been upgraded to suites and superior rooms. I have to add that although I dislike smoking and always request a non-smoking room, coming from Europe where lip service is paid to non-smoking) I am not phased if it is ignored. As long as there are clean sheets and the lampshades have not gone yellow with tobacco I can manage.
No, I think that Priceline is for us the best thing since sliced bread.