When negotiations don't reach a positive outcome, it's often because pride got in the way, rather than money. Try to keep an open mind and don't pin yourself into a corner by talking in absolutes. Avoid using words like 'we'll never pay more than this' because all you do is shut off your options.
There is a backlog of property investors in your market right now who have been wanting to sell for the last few years, but felt that it made sense to ride out the down market first. Now they are wondering if the time is right to make a move. They
We need to find ways to celebrate our success on a regular and consistent basis. To take stock and remind ourselves (and our ever-patient families) why we do what we do.