One of my favorite lessons learned
Me:  Investor in the business mostly as a developer for 20+ years.  

Closing a deal tomorrow that I've been working on as a Seller for 7-8 months.  Very rural area.  Vacant commercial space.  Huge margins.  I started out ruthless.  I would do anything ethically possible to make just one more dollar even if I was already making really good money.  

My buyer tomorrow is a woman in her 60's.  She runs a fairly large business but totally clueless when it comes to commercial real estate.  In my old days I would have fought her on everything.  The new me coaches her through each step, makes phone calls she should make, etc...  I instruct my staff that we have an inexperienced buyer and to help her and not confront her.  

She just sent me a thank you note appreciating my help.  I have to say, this is a lot better for my mental health to do business this way, and more fun.
[{"id": "fbb11vq", "text": "Sounds like you have made a bunch of money and have moved to the other side of the table. \n\nThe nicest people I know are also the richest. The people you screw over today will never, ever forget it and I have seen deals fall apart due to spite. \n\nIn fact, spite is what drives some of my more senior brokers. They already have more money then they know how to spend and will work tirelessly to fuck over that one guy who hurt them when they were little. \n\nSo be nice, because word of mouth and your reputation demands it. \n\nPlus, it is easier on your immune system. \n\nCongratz on the deal.", "replies": [{"id": "fbbs9xt", "text": "^ truth", "replies": [], "depth": 2}], "depth": 1}, {"id": "fbb7usy", "text": "Sounds like you may be getting some referrals s from her as well.  Nice", "replies": [], "depth": 1}, {"id": "fbd0cex", "text": "Transactions don't need to be cutthroat. People exchange property for various reasons. \n\nNo need to treat the other side as the enemy.", "replies": [], "depth": 1}, {"id": "fc6yrep", "text": "Also sounds like you doing small things (making phone calls etc) that expedite closing the deal and generally making the buyer comfortable, which also probably expedites closing the deal.  You're better off not being an a-hole and haggling over every nickel and dime vs getting a deal done as quickly as possible, moving on to the next one and potentially getting referrals from a happy buyer.", "replies": [], "depth": 1}, {"id": "fcce8s1", "text": "Would you mind helping me with a recommendation?\n\nYoung family. Just paid off our home.\n\nLooking for commercial property to invest in. Saved ~20% for down payment.\n\nShould I take remainder 80% out on a personal loan or SBA, or any other recommendations?", "replies": [], "depth": 1}]