For all the flak this thread has attracted, I think it's nice to hear all the different opinions. I think the bottom line is YMMV - in all things. This is indeed a business, so in no way should it be confused with dating. That said, many businesses and especially professionals have preferred customers - people they simply enjoy dealing with more than others. They will generally show favour to these clients. In this industry, I would say being a gentleman is a good start, and if there is genuine chemistry between your personality and that of your favorite SP, you may find the clock being less of a factor over time. Loyalty is earned, and usually through doing a substantial amount of business. When I find myself staying in the presidential suite of a hotel, having booked only a standard room, I know it's because I've stayed hundreds of nights with that hotel brand, combined with one other very important point - that room happened to be available when I checked in, so they gave it to me because it cost them next to nothing to do so. They also have an ulterior motive. The hotel business is fiercely competitive, and they know if they spoil me a little with their loyalty program, I will keep coming back again and again. Ask any SP - it's not raining Johns. They have to work to get clients and especially to attract the good ones, while avoiding the bad ones. In many cases, having posted rates is simply a way to set expectations and limits, which can be relaxed at their discretion.
When I find an SP I hit if off with an a city, I almost always try to repeat and book in advance when I know my travel will take me there. I've found a willingness to accommodate hours that work for me but are outside their normal schedule, preferred pricing for regular appointments, a somewhat relaxed clock depending on her schedule that day, services not usually on the menu and performed with a greater amount of enthusiasm (trust and mutual respect have a lot to do with that), and more.
Recently, I really wanted to see one of my regulars, but was visiting a city 2 hours away from where she lives. We agreed on a price to make it worth her while and she trekked all the way out there to see me for what was supposed to be 5-6 hours. Due to a mix-up with her return trip, she ended up staying the night. We ordered a feast from room service, polished off 3 bottles of wine, and had some great conversation, watched TV, had a bath, etc. I did not expect any additional services from her, and in the morning she was on her way, having had a really great time. I really enjoyed the experience of hanging out with her, without the expectation of something more (we were both too spent anyway). The professional aspect is important to me too. I had somewhere to be that morning and she respected the fact that I needed her to be on her way by a certain time.
SP's are human, and all the dynamics of normal human interactions apply - though they are undercurrents to the business relationship. I always respect that this is how they pay their bills and I try to help as much as I can. I actually feel good about helping them pay their rent, tuition, or whatever it is they are saving for. The more generous they are with their time and their attitude, the more I want to help. It's a win-win.