SnackTrader I definitely understand what you are saying about locking in the date with AMEX, I actually just found out about that recently and plan on putting in these applications soon. I feel like this way I can have some serious time without apps, before I decide to go after acquiring a home loan in a year and a half.

Daybreak I appreciate the suggestion on the Freedom, it seems like it is better suited for my needs and hopefully when enough time has passed I can too go after the Sapphire preferred. It seems like you have had very good experiences with Chase, and I am looking forward to fully using the revolving 5% categories