when i was a bird dog, I was told $500. i don't know what his bird dog contract says but you should get a copy and read it over. a simple contract should say "i will give you this for this". his might say something like he wants a percentage of your proceeds if he's talking about a partnership. draw up your own contract that says "i will give you $500 for ..." and if he signs then he understands that's your price. otherwise he can work for the other investor he says will pay him more. usually when someone says something like that they're trying to test you. he kind of sounds like a new bird dog that wants to appear more experienced. just me, but as a good faith gesture i would let him come to the first closing and have him sit outside until it's done.

It just didn't feel right passing the fee onto them, though the gesture of them reaching for the bill first was greatly appreciated.

Sometimes family is cool with the gesture of backing you up but when the underwriting starts they get a little uncomfortable.  

I would also let them know that this is a good gesture upgrade not a maintenance issue that's a must-do-job.

Perhaps something that is a "local" treat as a gesture of your hospitality.

Hey guys,I normally don't start topic discussions but this kind gesture from @Nicole Pettis prompted me to see what everyone else does.What are some things that you do to leave an impression on a potential investor or future business partner?

I would sweetly thank your tenant and tell them that while you appreciate the gesture it was not expected and not necessary in the future.

Natural gestures can be used to effectively communicate some ideas.

It was definitely nice of them to help you find a new tenant too, so as a kind gesture, you can give them a gift card or something small as a token of your appreciation. 

As a neighborly gesture I supplied a few traps available from most stores.