I know my chapter payed a lot of attention to girls that were a legacy to us or to another chapter on campus. If they were a girl we were interested in we would make sure they talked to the sisters we knew would do there best to steer them our way. As far as the number of legs - we didn't really see too too many that were legs to Alpha Xi but it helped to know which other chapters on campus we were possibly competeing against for another girl. Legs were usually automatically invited back to the second round and we did let the family member know if we released their daughter, granddaughter, or sister. Legs that were invited to pref were automatically put at the top of our first bid list. Because we didn't have as many legs comming through, we also payed special attention to girls that we recieved recs for b/c if an alumna takes the time to send in a rec for them they must be a great girl!
Also, I know my mom wasn't too supportive of me rushing and didn't pay for any of my expenses related to sorority but I think she's now realizing what I gained and learned through Alpha Xi. I would love my daughters to be my sister too but I want them to be a part of the chapter that is the best for them.