I try not to normalize at all.
For the most part the exported BIAB tracks have decent levels and work well in Reaper. For my own tracking I try to max around the sweet spot for Reaper again, (-12 on the indicator), so have no problems "gain staging" in the box.
I used to normalize stuff in the DAW before mixing but found that, on occasion, the increased noise floor was a problem and it was an unnecessary step.
I suppose it also depends on whether it's a revisable process in your DAW.


Cheers
rayc
"What's so funny about peace, love & understanding?" - N.Lowe