by Desiderata
Strongly consider taking iron when there are 3 or more (sometimes even if only 2 early in the game) on the offer.Build ships as early as you can to help with food obligations (and for later Shipping Line).
Consider buying town buildings with extra cash when you can. The VPs are the same as the coins you paid for it (with a few exceptions on buildings that are more expensive to buy), you'll avoid entry fees when visiting them, and you'll have the building icons and/or deny them to your opponents who might build the Bank/Town Hall.
And as stated already, don't be afraid of loans. They aren't difficult to pay back, especially with 3+ players with use of the Courthouse building.
