.net vs .com 
russell: First register the .net name while you are thinking.  It's only $7 or so..com is better than .net because .net is below the radar for most people.  Have you thought of .org   It doesnt mean nonprofit.  It was set up for everyone else not in the military/industrial complex.  Most people are aware of .org.The going price for parked or low volume domains is around $15K  Maybe an offer in that range will get his attention.Someone in another thread made the point that most people will come to your site via search and your real name is not important.  I dont really subscribe to that argument because people tell their friends without giving a proper link, say on the phone.I thing you will regret the conflict if you go the .net route.  Find another catchy name or add another word to the name you are already considering.  TheCatchyName vs CatchyName.  Remember catchy names are rarely as good as you think they are.Final piece of advice.  Do a trademark search for your name. (tm) is weak but (R) is very strong and you should avoid the conflict.