So, the other day, I had an exchange in the comments section with my reader Erik. He mentioned how he is sick and tired of all the posts about Chase Sapphire Preferred. Honestly, no one can argue that this topic is covered to death by miles and points compadres. Does it mean that I think this card is worthless? Far from it.
The sign-up bonus is terrific, and one of the best in the industry (read about it here). In fact, if you are just starting out in the miles and points hobby, there are compelling reasons to get it first (read my post here). The bonus is currently increased to 55,000 points which at the very minimum translates to $550 in cash and more if you redeem for travel. Transferring to Southwest will give you 55,000 points, and the list goes on. The bonus itself IMO is a no-brainer. Of course, I recommend you only sign up for Chase Sapphire Preferred if you can handle minimum spending requirements, which are quite steep at $4,000 in 3 months. Yes, the card does pay me referral.
The reason I’m not shouting about it from the rooftops is precisely because the offer is so well covered by now, I don’t know how much more I can possibly add. But one thing I love to do is sift through blog comments. They never disappoint! And so it goes with this article on NextAdvisor praising CSP bonus and its virtues I used to think miles and points blogs attract a bizarre crowd. Nope! There were comments begging for money, random observations on life, complaints about politicians etc.
Here are just a few standouts (I left the names out):
That’s the positive attitude I’m talking about! Hobbyists can learn a thing or two from this dude.
And here is another one:
Ok, this doesn’t really sound like an especially remarkable comment, right? Except, the same gal comes back the next day and posts this:
Yes, I think you do need it. Actually, I know how she feels. I really need/want this card. Except I can’t get it due to current draconian Chase approval policy.
But here is the best comment of all. I would bet you anything it’s one of our fellow hobbyists:
I honestly think the right thing to do would have been to let the wife drive herself to the hospital and go back and look for that baby goose. This is storytelling at its finest: it draws you in and pulls on your heartstrings. Plus, there is a happy ending. Even if the baby goose is gone (permanently), the guy can buy lots of them with his $550 bonus from CSP card. #winning
Click here to view various credit cards and available sign-up bonuses
Author: Leana
Leana is the founder of Miles For Family. She enjoys beach vacations and visiting her family in Europe. Originally from Belarus, Leana resides in central Florida with her husband and two children.
[…] Then there is “paranoia living in an echo chamber” atmosphere that permeates this community. At times, I feel like Alice in Wonderland, with everything being upside down. This hobby is the only place I know of, where the value of getting $550 in exchange for one measly ding on your credit score is up for a debate. […]