you can estimate the least favorable deal for which the other party might settle. We say "might" because the other party may not have considered his or her resisitance point. We have found, though, that it is wise to assume the other party is well prepared. if you know the other party's resistance point, asnoted earlier, you can push for an agreement that barely exceeds it. This kind of lowball deal is often better for you than an "equitable" deal, though not always.