Prop Firm Payouts: Are we optimizing for low spreads or reliable withdrawals?

Alright, so I've been wrestling with this lately: trying to choose a new prop firm. On one hand, you've got firms touting incredibly tight spreads and low commissions, which is obviously attractive for any active trader. Every pip counts, right? But then you hear the whispered tales of payout delays, arbitrary KYC/AML hurdles cropping up after a successful trading period, or just generally opaque withdrawal processes. It makes me wonder if we, as traders, are so conditioned to chase the 'best' trading conditions that we sometimes overlook the fundamental 'can I actually get my money out?' question. Is it better to tolerate slightly wider spreads or a fractional increase in commission if it means having absolute confidence that when you hit that withdrawal button, the funds will actually arrive without a saga? I'm leaning towards the latter, but it feels like a compromise I shouldn't have to make. Are others finding this to be a primary decision point now, given the landscape?