http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showp...47&postcount=1

in my experience it is not common to be more expensive. there were even some properties that used to be more expensive, but now match best available rate. (change this year) sometimes there are major discounts, but not that often.

the upgrades, especially at the higher end, are really where the value is. although the breakfast and amenity can sometimes save you quite a bit, even if the FHR rate is more expensive than the hotel's best available room rate.

also be aware you can also join ABA for $150/yr, which seems to have some fantastic rates domestically (base rooms AFAIK), and Andrew Harper - Q Club for $200/yr, which has some properties that are not covered by FHR or Virtuoso. (Virtuoso is free, and a good companion to FHR)