Well, I got lucky. I checked out a few Verizon iPhone X's last night and put them on my watch list. Today while in traffic, I got a notification that one was now accepting offers. I put in my top dollar (over $75 under his ask) with a little message. I was astonished he accepted without negotiation.
Turns out the dude recognized my handle and is from the BMW forums. I think he knows I'm a student but I'm a big contributing member and I think he did it to be nice. Was really sweet and all was meant to be.