Doing business with friends?

When I first started expressing an interest in business someone told me:

"Never do business with friends"

The only time I ever think of this quote is when situations go wrong.

Recently, I made a career change. I did the whole job thing....(insert long story here).... In pursuing that plan I signed a lease with a friend's parents.

Now, I am faced with a challenge. How do I separate myself from this agreement, while keeping my friendship?! One of my best friends asked me an eye opening question to ponder while working out this issue: What do I want the end result to be?

Here is what I want the net result to be: Keep my friend happy and move forward with my life.

My thoughts on the initial quote: Doing business with friend is possible, yet it must be executed with reasonable people.

Often strong emotional ties by both parties involved cloud the arrangement. Therefore situation become emotional rather than rational. Thus feeling are hurt and friends ended.

The point of this entry is: I'm not really sure. But hopefully it makes some sense?!

Your thoughts would be appreciated!