As much as number 5 and the rest of the rules are great advice, they are bias and meant to put you on the defensive. Legal documents are only binding because you agree to them. If you or your agent or lawyer do not read AND understand them, then what do you expect? Not only can these be applied to wall street deals and VCs, but they apply to most situations.

I think the best rule here is number 10. Financing is not free money.