the price that you can obtain outside is cheaper than their so-called rebate system.

you are not paying less but getting a little discount and entitle for the rebate percentage (pay advance for future use).

upon redemption, your are using the points (advanced payment) to pay at the item's full price.

i wonder if you can request for the instant point redemption for the current purchase.

if they say no, then you have to follow their games.