[asphaltgambler]

Patience with other people and their situations is key. So yes, always I buy the seller. Depending on what it is how much stock of that I invest. I politely maximize my leverage up to the point where any farther and it becomes uncomfortable. I ask and present my 'side' of the deal and go from there. I never rush through. My experience is treating people with respect and kindness, if only for that moment makes all involved feel more at ease. I've worked on 'perfecting' this over many decades, early in my teens watching my father negotiate deals that involved 5 - 6 figures in the late 60's to 80's.

If someone thinks they need to be a d**k on either side, they're completely missing the point........and likely leaving $$$$ on the table...