how much does being a legacy help

Depends on how close the legacy sitch is. In general it won't make much difference. We'll cut you after first round if we don't think you're a fit, so at least you'll know right away.

If you can make it through the first weekend, you should be good to get in unless something crazy happens. But, the first weekend you’ll be looked at way closer than other pnms to see if you’re right for the chapter

Depends on the house. My house requires us to give legacies a bid, unless we have a strong case against it and vote accordingly. Other houses don’t think twice. I’m sure chapters like Chi O don’t care as much since they’re the biggest nationally so probably get the most legacies. Some chapters only pay attention to direct legacies (I.e. sister or mother). Some only take legacies from the OSU chapter. It really really depends.

I am in what this site considers a "top house," and although it isn't mandatory, we are really encouraged to take legacies. I will say this though- still go in with an open mind even if you are a legacy. Sometimes girls have their eyes on a house that their mom or sister were in and end up getting a bid due to their legacy status, but it doesn't end up being the best fit for the PNM in the long run. Being a legacy is a cool thing and a great bond within families so certainly be excited about checking out whatever house it is that you are curious about, but if you don't feel a connection, do not feel bad, and still rank the houses appropriately. :)