If it’s a property I am familiar with, I call a day or two beforehand and have had good luck with them blocking a room for me. Last summer I called a HGI in a busy tourist area where I reserved months earlier. I wasn’t familiar with the property but read up on trip advisor so knew what might be a better room choice for me. Front desk was terrific. Blocked a room that was a perfect choice.

I have had a CSA at the front desk admit they don’t load all rooms to the digital app. In one instance at a property I know well, I used the app to pick my preferred room. Arrived the next day to be told not available. Since I could prove (screenshot) I successfully checked into that room, I requested a an explanation. I was told previous guest decided to stay. That didn’t make sense.