Sometimes you win and sometimes you lose. 

@David McCauley I work for a brokerage that is excellent for noobs—in fact that was what I was, and I closed the year out with over $7 million in sales with 10 months to do it.

Emotionally it's hard to let them "win" - though of course I've won by being rid of them!  

I've read both and they're excellent reads to get started.

Something that I have used that has given me a competitive advantage in the markets that I buy in has been removing assignment clauses and guaranteeing that I was going to close on the property in order to win over a competitor.

Is there a database/excel sheet/rule of thumb list I can use? 

James these are excellent points.. 

Here are a couple thoughts:1) Lower monthly payment, building equity, possibility of rental income to further decrease your out of pocket expenses sounds like a win. 2) You may have tax planning opportunities depending on how you own the property and how your business is set up.3) Around here, there are a number of office buildings that have various psychologists and counselors in them.

Just remember, repairs of roof etc will be needed down the road unless in excellent condition.

You convince folks from the heart and not through logic, debating, arguing, or attorneys - you can "win" with the latter, but it's so much more peaceful & simpler to engage them as a friend & neighbor.