When people are looking for cheap hotels they tend to stick to a low star rating.

But you can get some really good deals from good hotels if you are willing to wait till the last minute or even the day of travel. As often many hotels will half the rack rate or have a vastly reduced rate after a certain time of day.

As it is often better to fill the rooms, at a reduced rate. Rather than have no guests in the hotel.
There are also now many sites on the Internet that provide last minute hotel rates and they often include special offers. Like a buffet dinner or free valet parking. If you do need to book your hotel well in advance then you are best off shopping around for the best deal.

Some hotels offer 4 nights for the price of 3 and various mid week offers when the hotel is less busy.
If you have stayed at a previous hotel before and get to know the reception staff then you can often haggle with them to get the best rate.

Be cheeky offer the lowest price you think they would be prepared to accept and have a cut off point that you would be willing to pay!
If the hotel has a web site check this out for special offers and get in early with specific requests i.e. quiet room, or room with a view.

If you remember these points then not only can you get some great offers on cheap hotels and the hotels normally considered more expensive.