Originally Posted by
yinxzon
What do you think about redemption though? It is 2K of maintenance fees per year for 2 85K FNA and 2 35K FNA on Marriott and I think a little more for Hilton but for 4 Aspire cards or maybe 2 Aspire/ 2 Surpass but no limits on the FNA. Now I think about this harder, that's 500000 pts or so, which is like 250K MR points. 2K is worth it bc I wouldn't be able to get that many with just 2K spend. I wish they didn't expire every year though just like stay in your account as your disposal like Hyatt.
Redemption value as straight 1-1 transfer from Chase or Bilt is streets better value than what you get from Marriott or Hilton as a transfer (where there needs to be a significant transfer bonus for it to make any sense, and even then it's marginal).
I find the ancilary benefits from Marriott Brilliant + Business (Platinum + nights credit + $300 food as $25 monthly credit + 2 FNCs) and Hilton Aspire ($200 resort credit semiannually + $200 flight credit quarterly + Diamond + FNC) work out as value positive for me against the $1325 I spend, but that is going to be dependent on individual valuation of the package.
On the paid side, here's an example: I have a $600 paid stay coming up in London with Hilton at a 5 star hotel (Hilton Bankside). By my estimation I'll get ~$150 in points value back in points from promotions and status (as well as lounge access and a solid breakfast) on the room rate (and if I charge anything to the room it will come back at about the same rate). That's not bad value (and 25% back stacking card spend, status and promotions is pretty solid in my experience). The Hilton credits also help with trickling in some points as I go along.